Youth spice up charity events in Joy of Giving Week

Charity is no longer about going to villages or visiting NGOs to donate money. From attending the best of dinner buffets, to spending a night under the stars, the city youth have given the phrase ‘charity begins at home’ a whole new meaning.

In today’s world where nothing comes for free, youngsters have twisted charity events in a way to ensure maximum participation in various events organised under the Joy of Giving Week, which kicks off on October 2 across the country.

Take the case of Steven Rubado, who has come all the way from the US to attend a workshop by Ken Blanchard, a leadership guru. The proceeds of the fees paid by him to attend the workshop will go towards providing education, care and rehabilitation to 650 women and children through two of U&I’s programmes - U&I Teach and U&I Care.

“It is a great opportunity to attend a workshop by this great man. The fact that the fees paid by me will go for charity is the icing on the cake,” said Rubado.

Trupti Chengalath, who works for Mahiti, is looking forward to the sumptuous dinner buffet prepared by the best chefs in the city.

Organised at SAP Labs, the gala dinner event, ‘Food for a Change’, will also have a dance performance by one of the best dance troupes in the city.

“Who does not like to have good food? Chefs from the best hotels in the city are coming together to organise the dinner. If my enjoyment can spread happiness among the not-so-fortunate ones, I don’t really mind paying for it,” says Chengalath. On her part, she is asking her friends and acquaintances to participate in the event.

Rajan Narayanan, spokesperson for Joy Of Giving Bangalore, said the festival has only got popular among youngsters year after year.

“They are bringing a twist in the way charity is done. Traditional charity does not always see huge participation. This way they are enjoying and it has a donation aspect to it,” said Narayanan.

Ankit Shah, who is organising ‘Under the Stars,’ is making sure there is adequate entertainment for those who are participating.

“There will be food, a bonfire and a street play. I am not sure how much people are ready to tough it out. So things like these will keep up the momentum and help in more participation,” said Shah.

Under the Stars is a mass sleep-out event at Ascendas Cricket Ground, Whitefield. The sleep-out will help raise money and create awareness for selected NGOs working to help alleviate the suffering of children and adults living in poverty and destitution.

Bhavana Rao, an IT professional, will conduct dance workshops in many apartments and companies.

Events at this year’s Joy of Giving Week
Under the Stars: sleep-out event on Oct 1

Workshop: by Ken Blanchard, leadership guru on Oct 3

Food for Change: gourmet buffet on Oct 6