DONORS’ STORIES
Chandrika S. came from an underprivileged family in Maharashtra: “I was wondering if I
would ever be able to complete my Master's degree, even after doing well in my
Bachelor’s…” Thanks to our partner Lila Poonawalla Foundation, Chandrika earned her
degree. She is a client partner at an IT company in the US.
Founded by businesswoman Lila Poonawalla and supported by IDRF, the Foundation awards
college scholarships to young women. It trains them in leadership skills, job readiness, and
spoken English, too. “Lila Mom has been personally involved in my progress,” says Chandrika.
Chandrika S.
“Being a Lila Fellow is a MATTER OF PRIDE AND COMMITMENT TO SOCIETY,” so she
decided to donate to the Foundation through IDRF. “After talking with Vinodji, I realized the
passion he has to help society as a whole… The transaction was very easy and I also received
receipts very promptly. Personally, IT HAS BEEN A VERY ENRICHING EXPERIENCE.”
Chicago, Illinois
“I believe that EDUCATION IS A BASIC HUMAN NEED, like food or shelter,” says
Ashok Soni. When his friend founded a school in rural Uttar Pradesh, Ashok was eager
to help. Over the years, he and his wife Sanjiwan have helped the school grow to a
first-class institution with over 1,000 students from 25 villages. “WE WERE
EXTREMELY IMPRESSED WITH THE SCHOOL, AND I’M VERY HAPPY WITH
IDRF,” he says. The students excel in spite of their disadvantaged backgrounds. Five
graduates recently won large government scholarships for college.
When the Soni family visited the school, “It was very satisfying to see these little
children... learning today and becoming leaders, engineers, and doctors,
tomorrow...THE PROJECT HAS MODERNIZED THE ENTIRE VILLAGE.” Ashok
also praised the school management and IDRF’s strategy, such as the decision to
house teachers on-site: “I think the money is being used in the best way possible.
IDRF is doing a great job.”
Ashok & Sanjiwan Soni
Blue Bell, Pennsylvania
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