By Gautam Shah, PGP 71
Caption: Gautam Shah teaching students of standard 10th
In the bustling heart of Western Ahmedabad, amidst the scholarly institutions and cultural landmarks, lies a stark contrast—a sprawling slum community known as Gulbai Tekra. Here, life unfolds against a backdrop of poverty, limited education, and unsanitary conditions, painting a vivid picture of the challenges faced by the underprivileged.
The genesis of the Improve A Life Foundation (ILF) can be traced back to a chance encounter in 2018. I was then grappling with questions of purpose and meaning, and found myself drawn to the plight of a 14-year-old boy in Gulbai Tekra. This encounter served as a catalyst, igniting a passion to make a tangible difference in the lives of those trapped in the cycle of poverty and despair.
With unwavering determination and a heart brimming with empathy, I embarked on a journey to transform the narrative of the slum community. Thus, ILF was born, founded on the principles of Love, Empathy, and Compassion—pillars upon which every endeavor would be built.
Education emerged as the cornerstone of ILF’s mission. Recognizing the systemic barriers hindering access to quality education, the foundation set out to provide a beacon of hope for the children of Gulbai Tekra. What began as an initiative to tutor a handful of students in their makeshift dwellings soon blossomed into a comprehensive educational program, encompassing free tuition, academic support, and holistic development activities.
Caption: Students of standard 10th of 2023-24 receiving Tejasvi Tarla certificates
ILF’s commitment to education transcends mere classroom instruction. Beyond imparting knowledge, the foundation nurtures dreams, fostering a sense of possibility in the hearts of young minds. From basic literacy to advanced subjects, from computer literacy to career counseling, ILF leaves no stone unturned in paving the path to a brighter future.
However, ILF’s impact extends far beyond the realm of education. Recognizing the interconnected nature of social issues, the foundation extends a helping hand in healthcare and general welfare. Through initiatives such as medical support, provision of essential supplies, and advocacy for government assistance, ILF addresses the multifaceted needs of the community with compassion and efficacy.
The fruits of ILF’s labor are evident in the stories of transformation that unfold within Gulbai Tekra. From academic achievements to vocational pursuits, from improved health outcomes to a strengthened sense of community, the ripple effects of compassion resonate far and wide.
Here are some of the ways we made a difference:
Education
- Dipak Bhati residing in Gulbai Tekra slum, joined our Tuition when we started our tuition activity in 2019. He passed Std 10 and 12 scoring good marks and is now studying in second year B.Com. at Som Lalit College.
- Mayur Bhati is one of our students of earlier batches. He passed 12th commerce this year and is seeking admission in first year B Com.
- Mithilesh Bhati who joined our Paathshala in 2020 passed std 10 in 2023 and is now studying in Second year of Diploma in Automobile.
- Seven boys and one girl passed Std. 10 this year. One girl and three boys have joined Std 11 commerce this year. Others are trying for Diploma Engineering and ITI courses.
Health care:
- Our healthcare initiatives extend a lifeline to the vulnerable, offering support for medical expenses and facilitating access to essential treatments through regular doctor visits and medical camps.
General Assistance
Beyond the realms of education and healthcare, ILF extends a helping hand to uplift spirits and alleviate hardships. Through the provision of grocery kits to students, widows, and the handicapped, of the slum, we strive to address basic needs and promote a sense of security within the community.
- During the pandemic, we gave 310 packets of wheat flour and 520 kits of groceries to poor families of Gulbai Tekra.
- During 2021- 22 we supported 736 poor families by giving grocery kits.
- During 2023-24, we gave 455 grocery kits to widows, handicapped and needy
- We continue giving grocery kits from time to time to the poor and handicapped.
We also guide our community in navigating bureaucratic hurdles to ensure that beneficiaries avail themselves of government schemes and entitlements, empowering them to access resources vital for their well-being. We have helped 18 widows to get a Widow’s Pension under the Vidhava Sahay Scheme of the government.
Gautam Shah is the Founder and Managing Trustee of ILF and lives in Ahmedabad. He worked as a Management Consultant for over 25 years. He can be reached at improvealife19@gmail.com.
