A young group of 20 volunteers here have formed an organisation, Ashayen, to create a child-friendly city and promote the inner talents of poor and street children like dancing, singing, painting, running and playing, etc.
Ashayen members also create awareness among the children about their health and hygiene and life skill management. They also motivate them for addiction-free life as many of them are taking drugs and consuming different types of tobacco products.
“The children were once running away from us as they never got opportunities to interact with the mainstream. Gradually, the situation has changed and they are now acquainted with us and taking more interest in all the activities,” said a member of the Ashayen.
Initially, some of the parents were also not allowing their children to be involved in the activities, but now they are happy and sending their children outside for exposures, he added.
“We are only intending to make it a public cause where common citizen would be part of the initiative and share their contribution for neglected children,” said another volunteer.
All the volunteers have taken up activities to create a new sense of inspiration to the younger generation through volunteering. Their activities include observation of Children’s Day, Friendship Day, etc., with the poor children.
They have worked with the children of different pockets like Malisahi, railway station and Market Building.