From PRASAD's National Licensees

PRASAD España Showcases Self Help Group Program

November 2007 was a busy month for PRASAD España, as they shared about the work of PRASAD in three different settings.

First, on November 5th, PRASAD España President David Mendez and General Manager Xavier Nova offered a presentation on PRASAD’s Self Help Groups (SHG) Program in India to the Women’s House of the Jerez de la Frontera (south Spain) Town Council. David and Xavier gave a broad overview of the program and of the situation of women in the Tansa Valley, explaining in detail the creation of the groups, the process of training, and the activities they organized on World Women’s Day. Xavier also shared some success stories of businesses started by the women of the SHGs. Those present then were invited to sponsor a Self Help Group with a monthly donation of 12€ ($17USD), PRASAD España’s cost for creating and supporting one SHG. The presentation, which was attended by women from different organizations that support women’s empowerment in society, was well received.

On the weekend of November 22-25th, as part of their commitment to raise awareness about PRASAD’s sustainable development programs in India, PRASAD España participated in the 23rd BioCultura exhibition in Madrid. They provided and staffed a booth with information about PRASAD’s programs and again offered their presentation about the SHGs. Said Xavier, “Since the expo focused on bio products, natural living, environmental protection, and sustainability, we shared PRASAD’s perspective on how we promote self sufficiency through our sustainable development programs in the Tansa Valley.”

Finally, on Saturday the 24th, David accepted an award on behalf of PRASAD España at the closing program of the International Social Film Festival of Torrijos (in Toledo, Spain). The festival is for films that promote education, values, gender equality, solidarity and tolerance. The award was for PRASAD’s work in the Tansa Valley in India. In accepting the award, David paid tribute to the women in PRASAD Chikitsa’s self help groups. He also acknowledged the great effort and perseverance of the team supporting the SHGs, saying, “I receive this award on behalf of them.”

PRASAD Australia Event Raises Funds for India Program

PRASAD Australia held its first Sydney area fundraiser on Saturday evening, November 10, 2007, overlooking the city from the elegant National Trust headquarters at Observatory Hill, above the historic Rocks area. The evening of beautiful art, music and food was organized to raise awareness and funds about the work of PRASAD Chikitsa’s Reproductive and Child Health Clinic in the Tansa Valley. PRASAD Australia has committed to raising $50,000 annually to support the clinic’s services for pregnant mothers and their babies.

The evening began outside, where the 125 guests took advantage of the balmy Sydney summer weather to enjoy the view of the city from the grounds of the historic Observatory Trust Building. While they mingled and enjoyed refreshments, an a cappella choir performed contemporary and soul pieces. After a warm welcome by their PRASAD Australia hosts, the crowd moved inside to view the art, jewelry, sculpture, pottery and accessory on display for the silent auction. Artists and designers from within the Australia Siddha Yoga community as well as some of their colleagues from all across the country contributed works for the event.

Marie Elrington, PRASAD Chikitsa Reproductive and Child Health program manager, had traveled from India especially for the evening and gave a moving, informative talk about PRASAD’s work in the Tansa Valley. PRASAD Australia Board Chairman Peter Raines spoke about the work of The PRASAD Project worldwide.

Then the silent auction commenced. Auction emcee, PRASAD Australia Board Director Anatole Kononewesky, roused the crowd’s enthusiasm and spirit, as people bid and applauded the sales. Many of the items sold, and PRASAD Australia made significant progress towards reaching their $50,000 goal.

PRASAD Australia extends their heartfelt gratitude to the great beings whose love and generosity made the evening a success and helped support the work of PRASAD in India.

PRASAD España Produces Films to Support India Programs

 

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