Aakanksha Lions Institute for Learning and Empowerment
Empowering Lives, One Step at a Time
Aaknksha Special School - Dhaseewan / Birgaon
In the heart of rural Chhattisgarh, Aakanksha Lions Institute of Learning and Empowerment (ALILE), in collaboration with Godavari Steel Plant, is transforming lives. Our centres in Birgaon and Dharseewa continue to be beacons of hope for individuals with intellectual disabilities, Cerebral Palsy, Autism, Down's Syndrome and Visually Impaired, equipping them with skills, support and opportunities to lead fulfilling lives. Our journey has been marked by celebrations, training sessions and life-changing initiatives that strengthen Aakanksha's mission of inclusivity and empowerment.
Creating Joy and Awareness Through Celebrations
World Disability Day: A Celebration of Abilities
The spirit of inclusion shone brightly during World Disability Day celebrations at our centers.
Birgaon Center (December 7, 2024):
- The campus came alive with cultural and sports activities where students showcased their talents through races, dance performances, a colourful fancy dress competition and even poetry recitations were done. Parents and community members participated, fostering a sense of belonging and encouragement.
Dharsiwa Center (December 3-7, 2024):
- A vibrant week filled with drawing and rangoli competitions, sports events like the 50-meter race and jalebi race and team games like basketball and musical chairs. Every child had an opportunity to participate, boosting their confidence and enthusiasm.
Health and Nutrition: Bridging the Gap
Aakanksha Lions Institute for Learning and Empowerment remains committed to ensuring holistic well-being for children with disabilities. We regularly organize a disability assessment camp in rural catchments. Inline with this, in Dharasiwa with support from the District Hospital, Raipur we organised an assessment camp, glimpses of the same can be seem below. The initiative helped connect families with crucial government schemes, including monthly disability allowances and railway concessions.
Our dedicated staff played a pivotal role in assisting parents with disability registration, hospital visits and medical consultations at AIIMS and government facilities. These efforts are not just about providing aid but about empowering families with knowledge and access to essential resources.
Expanding Access: Transportation for Education
To ensure that no child is left behind, we provide transportation facilities via auto rickshaw service in Birgaon and Dharasiwa. This initiative has enabled many new students from the catchment to attend school regularly, breaking barriers of distance and accessibility.
Training the Care Givers
Parents play a crucial role in shaping independent futures for children with disabilities. We regularly organised parent training programs in Dharaseewa. Here are some glimpse of the same:
- UDID and Disability Certificate Registration (August 13, 2024): Parents received guidance on the registration process and its benefits.
- Developing Independence in Daily Living (December 17, 2024): The session focused on teaching essential life skills such as bathing, brushing, grooming and feeding. Parents were trained to break down these activities into manageable steps, fostering gradual independence in their children.
These sessions were instrumental in building parental confidence and promoting self-reliance in children.
Strengthening Caregivers and Community Workers
Training caregivers is at the heart of our sustainability efforts. We provide on-the-job training at Aakanksha Main School Campus (Aakanksha Parisah) in Raipur, where experts including a clinical therapist, special educator and physiotherapist offer hands-on guidance. Observations from these sessions have helped identify specific training needs, paving the way for advanced training programs for the future which in turn helps in our mission to empower persons with disabilities.
Additionally, sign language training for students and teachers at both centers has enhanced communication skills, fostering a more inclusive learning environment and hence extending our services to individuals with hearing impairment and associated conditions.
Milestone Achievement: 30 Years of Aakanksha
Marking three decades of impact, Aakanksha Lions Institute for Learning and Empowerment celebrated its 30th anniversary (on October 26th, 2024 with a day of joy and reflection. Students performed energetic group dances, emphasizing the therapeutic benefits of movement, particularly for children with Down's syndrome. Like all celebrations this one also culminated with dance and music which symbolise unity, joy and resilience.
A Day of Fun: Kingdom of Joy Outing
December 20, 2024 was a day to remember!
Thanks to our collaboration with the Rotary Queens Club, 66 students and teachers enjoyed an exciting day out at Kingdom of Joy, Raipur. Laughter, games and shared experiences made this outing a heartwarming reminder of the power of recreation in holistic development.
Looking Ahead: Expanding Our Reach
A recent (in 2024) village survey in Birgaon and Dharseewa identified 40 new students in need of support. Plans are underway to introduce home-based services for children under 18, ensuring that specialised care reaches every corner of the community.
Aakanksha Lions Institute for Learning and Empowerment remains steadfast in its mission - Empowering persons with special needs and create an inclusive society with a skilled workforce of educators and caregivers.
Avanti Vihar Campus
Located in the heart of Raipur, our Avanti Vihar campus serves as the central hub of our institute. This campus offers a comprehensive range of educational programs, therapy services and vocational training, ensuring holistic development for every student. With state-of-the-art facilities, experienced educators and a nurturing environment, the main campus is dedicated to fostering confidence, independence and lifelong learning.
Become a Volunteer
Join us to make a difference
Join us to create a better life for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Make a positive impact. We can't do it without you!
We are looking for individuals to join us as Volunteers for our programs. Your help can make a big difference to help those in need. Whether you have a few hours to spare or can commit long-term, we welcome your support.
Career and Internship
Be the change
If you have the passion and the skills then join us to make a real difference in the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Explore career opportunities within Aakanksha to build a brighter future and make an impact that truly matters or apply for an internship that offers invaluable experience and opportunities for meaningful endeavours.
