A Volunteer's Journey: Gold President's Volunteer Service Award

As I pen down these words, I find myself on a reflective journey that spans over 16 years of volunteering with Vibha. Today, I am honored to share not just my story but the collective narrative of a passionate community that has tirelessly worked towards a singular goal - transforming the lives of underserved children in India.

In 2008, my journey with Vibha began as a volunteer. Little did I know that this experience would shape not only my understanding of the challenges faced by millions of children but also my personal and professional growth.

Over the years, I've witnessed the sheer dedication of our 1000+ volunteers and the incredible impact we can achieve when united by a common purpose.

Bringing a data-driven approach and a collaborative, inclusive leadership style to the forefront, my role evolved beyond volunteering. It became a commitment to lead Vibha towards growth, not just in numbers but in the lives we touch. The last 16 years have been a tapestry of moments – moments of triumph, resilience, and above all, the transformative power of education.

Today, I am humbled and grateful to share that I received the Gold President's Volunteer Service Award (PVSA) for my volunteering efforts in 2023. This is my third PVSA award but my first Gold.

This prestigious acknowledgment is not just about me but a celebration of the countless hands that have come together to create change.

It is a testament to the spirit of our community of 1000+ volunteers, the dedication of our 15-member operational staff in India, and the unwavering support of our donors who have made it possible for us to invest $25 Million+ in social change that matters impacting 3 Million+ children by scaling partnership towards the education of disadvantaged children.

Our impact extends to not only the children whose lives Vibha has touched by education and hope but also the 500+ children who have joined Vibha as volunteers learning leadership skills at young ages and creating possibilities. It extends to teachers who have found new ways to inspire, the students who discovered the joy of learning, and the communities who realized the potential within their grasp.

At the heart of this journey lies Vibha's vision - a commitment to ensuring high-quality education for every child.

As we navigate the challenges, we hold firm to the belief that education is the most powerful tool we possess to break the intergenerational poverty cycle.

To those who have been part of this journey - volunteers, donors, partners - your support has been the driving force behind every success.

Each step forward has been a collective effort, and I extend my deepest gratitude for participating in this incredible movement.

As I celebrate this achievement, I invite you to join us in the ongoing story of Vibha. Together, let's continue empowering the lives of those who need it the most. Every child deserves a chance, and with your support, we can make that chance a reality.

Thank you for being a part of this transformative journey. #Vibha #Gratitude

With gratitude,

Ashwini Kumar

CEO, Vibha.org

Volunteer since 2008