Abstract
Providing free and compulsory education to all children is a goal that is enshrined in the Indian Constitution as a Fundamental Right. Sustainable development cannot be considered as the responsibility of government only. There are many NGOs and corporates who make incessant efforts in providing smile on the faces of disadvantaged people. The paper focuses on the case study of SMILE foundation- a group of young corporate professionals who work with grassroots initiatives for achieving positive changes in the lives of underprivileged children, their families and communities. Education is both the means as well as the end to a better life: it empowers an individual to earn his/her livelihood and it increases one's awareness on a range of issues - from healthcare to appropriate social behaviour to understanding one's rights - and in the process help him/her evolve as a better citizen. Adoption of Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act (RTE), 2009 has given further impetus to the national efforts for ensuring quality education for all in a time- bound manner. SMILE works as a catalyst in bringing sustainable change in the lives of needy children. They empower underprivileged children, youth and women through relevant education, innovative healthcare and market-focused livelihood programs. SMILE adopts highest standards of governance to achieve social return on investment. SMILE Foundation has evolved two working models namely, Social Venture Philanthropy (SVP) and Outreach. Through SMILE more than 400,000 underprivileged children and families are benefitted every year, 200 projects have been implemented so far covering 950 villages in various states of India. They have been acclaimed with many awards. The paper attempts to examine various strategies, projects and models implemented by SMILE to attain the concept of connectedness for the deprived people.
Published Version
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