Dear Friends,

Here is your TARA News for this Spring! Enjoy reading!

TARA BIG BIRDS is now welcoming its first female beneficiaries. At TARA, we are dedicated to nurturing the potential of every young adult who has been in our children's homes. As they transition into adulthood at 18, our commitment to their growth and independence continues through our comprehensive aftercare program: TARA Big Birds.

Until now, the program was exclusively welcoming boys, as the girls under our care were too young to benefit.  However, in May, Nandini and Noorjahan, two inspiring young women, will be transitioning from TARA Girls to a nearby apartment, symbolizing a new chapter in their lives.

Noorjahan will have completed her 12th-grade exams and will embark on her college journey, embracing the endless possibilities that higher education offers. Meanwhile, Nandini, full of potential, will be starting her 11th year of school after finishing 10th grade exam. Both are really excited and motivated by this adventure! 

Their journey to this point has been made possible by the unwavering support of their sponsors, who have played a crucial role in helping them achieve this significant milestone. Nandini and Noorjahan express their sincere gratitude to everyone who has been a part of their journey so far. However, they will continue to need your support as they move towards full independence.

The current TARA Big Birds are performing well, having pursued their chosen studies and working part-time.

Lokesh has left Delhi and is now in Bangalore to learn about hotel management. Travelling to Bangalore was a new experience, and he enjoyed the train journey. During his free time, Lokesh is exploring places around Bangalore with other students.

In 2019, TARA initiated a social transformation by opening an Outreach Centre in South Delhi, focusing on family strengthening and preventing child separation.
The mission is clear: avoid family separation, protect children at risk, and provide support to distressed families. The Centre's approach includes monthly home visits, legal assistance for document acquisition, and educational support through four distinct classes, addressing the diverse needs and learning levels of the children.

As TARA Outreach Centre prioritizes the social and emotional well-being of children, it also emphasizes gender equality through regular sessions and mixed activities. The latest impact assessment shows positive results with 75% of children enjoying daily attendance, 87% feeling well cared for, 54% expressing their feelings to staff, and 85% aspiring to pursue higher education. 

Celebrating its fifth anniversary, TARA Outreach Centre stands as a program that brings positive change, actively shaping a brighter future for at-risk families and children.
In direct response to community needs and aligning with the government's directive to establish community-based family strengthening programs, TARA will expand its impact in 2024 : by opening a second Outreach Centre, we are aiming at supporting even more beneficiaries in vulnerable communities.

BATA Women's Day celebration event summary:

TARA had the privilege to partner with BATA to celebrate International Women’s Day and
promote inclusiveness on 8 th March 2024. The event was also attended by other prestigious NGOs like Udayan Care and Protsahan India Foundation.

The employees of BATA shared about the corporate life and various job roles that the students and freshers can explore as a career option. It helped the beneficiaries of all the NGOs in getting insightful information. They also acknowledged the contribution made by the female staff at BATA, highlighting the significance of Women’s Day.
TARA was represented by the beneficiaries of TARA Girls program at the event. Through a stall- based set up, they displayed their paintings and artwork and as a part of reverse mentorship, they taught Korean language and some Taekwondo moves to everyone present.

It was a moment of sheer pride as Kamal, one of the eldest beneficiaries of TARA assisted in anchoring the entire event. Her confidence and public speaking skills impressed everyone and she was appreciated for the same.