1. Education is not merely a gift; it is a basic human right. In India today,

2. An estimated 50 million children have no access to primary education Statistics based on UNICEF data

3. 35 million children work as laborers Statistics based on UNICEF data

4. 8 million Indian children are physically or mentally disabled Statistics based on www.cry.org data

5. Yet there is still hope. asha.

6. A non-profit organization ASHA for Education dedicated to catalyzing social change in India via the education of underprivileged children

7. ASHA for Education raises and distributes funds to Orphanages Primary schools Women’s shelters Centers for blind persons Centers for mentally- disabled children and much more…

8. ASHA has disbursed over $4 million in aid

9. and with 66 worldwide chapters,ASHA has financed nearly 400 projects in India.over 1000 volunteers,

10. ASHA aims to teach self-sustainability

11. We partner with other world organizations

12. And pre-screen each project to ensure that funds will be used appropriately.

13. Help make an impact. Change a life...

14. Raise public awareness about education issues

15. Run a marathon or 5K for charity

16. Sponsor a Child for as little at $10 a month

17. Volunteer at Asha fundraising events Support the following Atlanta-sponsored projects…

18. Project Name: Sayhog Anusandhan Trust Location: Mumbai (Bombay), Maharashtra Sponsoring Chapters: Atlanta, Berkeley This project supports young women in slum area with academic, financial, and social resources. Project 1: Education for Adolescent Women These students are the first women in their neighborhood to attend college.

19. Location: Tiruchirappalli District, Tamil Nadu Sponsoring Chapters: Atlanta, New Jersey This center provides vocational training for blind women in poverty. $2400 have been disbursed over 2 years for purchasing Braille equipment and food supplies. Project 2: Rehabilitation Center for Blind Women

20. Provides education classes for children residing in slums, on pavements, docks The "School on Wheels“ brings the classroom to the children. Project Name: Door-step School Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra Sponsoring Chapters: Atlanta, Berkeley Project 3: Local Education

21. Asha’s project successes are also the result of generous sponsorship Asha Atlanta would like to thank the following sponsors:

22. We kindly thank our platinum sponsor:

23. Our co-sponsor for generous annual financing: And for complimentary accommodations for the artists:

24. Kind thanks to our supporting sponsors:

25. Please help support Asha Atlanta funds Donation forms can be found in program booklets

26. “A body of determined spirits fired by an unquenchable faith in their mission can alter the course of history.” Mohandas “Mahatma” Gandhi

27. Thank you, and enjoy the remainder of the show.