Hi there,

I am a volunteer of Team Asha and as part of my Chicago Marathon-2011; I intend to raise a minimum amount of $1000 for a few projects related to the education of Underprivileged children in India.

1. Why fundraising? - Because there are a few children who need help to start their life on strong footing - Education. I always believe in self help rather than in donation and systemic changes rather than in grassroots changes. And at times, I did wonder whether I was going against this belief by being part of this fundraising. But then, these children can really not wait till the systemic changes in India touches their lives.

2. Why running? - Because the Paper dosa tastes great and guilt-free after a long run J I would love to say that it's only because of the fundraising. But that is not the truth. I always wanted to run a marathon, even when I didn't care to look at how many kms/miles constitute a marathon.
Then I came to know about Team Asha. I was extremely impressed with the whole concept of fundraising as part of the marathon training. And this acted as a much required catalyst to start my marathon training. I did my first marathon last year and got addicted to running.

3. How are the funds used? - I intend to contribute these funds to two projects - Sita School and Thulir. Both these projects are already proven in their efforts to provide education and opportunity to the needy children. I have visited Sita School and interacted with the children and the school fellows. The school fellows are doing an outstanding job in having a real, meaningful positive impact on the children.

4. What is different in donating here vs other options? - i) I have visited few of these projects and you can always ask me as how exactly the funds are used. ii) There is zero overhead in utilizing the funds contributed by you - each dollar contributed goes directly to the projects.

So, you are more connected to this contribution.

While we are unable to contribute our full time directly, we can at least help these projects by sharing the financial burden a bit.

And I truly wish you contribute more generously with a thought that this is going to make a difference to a child.

Thanks to 4 supporters who have helped me raise Rs.17000