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ANNUAL REPORT 2014-2015
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Page 1: ANNUAL REPORT 2014-2015...SOPAR-Bala Vikasa is a non-profit organization founded in 1977 by Bala Theresa and André Gingras with the mission to support and strengthen the development

ANNUAL REPORT2014-2015

Page 2: ANNUAL REPORT 2014-2015...SOPAR-Bala Vikasa is a non-profit organization founded in 1977 by Bala Theresa and André Gingras with the mission to support and strengthen the development
Page 3: ANNUAL REPORT 2014-2015...SOPAR-Bala Vikasa is a non-profit organization founded in 1977 by Bala Theresa and André Gingras with the mission to support and strengthen the development

TABLE OF CONTENTAbout

Our Approach360 Community Development

Model CommunitiesMessage from our President

Word of the FoundersMessage from our Director

Community DevelopmentWater and SanitationWomen and Widows

Children and YouthFood Security

Model CommunitiesProgramme humanitaire

Capacity BuildingPeople Development Training Center

Vikasa International CenterCanadian public awareness and

community presenceYouth Changing the World

Presence in Canadian CommunitiesFinancial Statement

Financial StatementsThank you

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Page 4: ANNUAL REPORT 2014-2015...SOPAR-Bala Vikasa is a non-profit organization founded in 1977 by Bala Theresa and André Gingras with the mission to support and strengthen the development

ABOUT SOPAR

SOPAR-Bala Vikasa is a non-profit organization founded in 1977 by Bala Theresa and André Gingras with the mission to support and strengthen the development process of India’s poor communities, particularly in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

Since its inception, the organization has grown to be regarded as a model non-for-profit organization – in India and internationally – because of its concrete results helping entire communities come out of poverty. SOPAR-Bala Vikasa has no religious or political affiliation and values transparency and professionalism.

In addition to community driven development programs, SOPAR-Bala Vikasa is ardently involved in building the capacities of development professionals, entrepreneurs and the corporate sector in best practices of sustainable development gleaned from over 38 years of field experience. SOPAR-Bala Vikasa works with local partnering organizations to enhance impact.

While SOPAR is headquartered in Gatineau, Canada with a new charitable initiative in the USA, Bala Vikasa has its head office and training center in Warangal, India. Together the two entities work as sister organizations pursuing the same vision and mission.

FoundersAngèle & André Gingras

Board of directorsMarc Gingras, PresidentAndré Bourassa, Vice-PresidentBernard Giroux, TreasurerLaurent Thauvette, SecretaryAndré Gingras, AdministratorLouis Guay, AdministratorÉric Gingras, AdministratorStéphane Courtemanche, AdministratorPascale de Montigny Gauthier, Administrator

StaffShobha Singareddy, DirectorJanice Aubry, Program OfficerMartin Martel, Communication OfficerPhilibert Lafrance, Accountant (part-time)

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ABOUT SOPAR APPROACH360 Community Driven DevelopmentSOPAR has pioneered the 360° Community Driven Development approach. This approach aims to help poor communities take control of their destinies by building on their assets– creating model communities where everyone –men, women, widows, orphans, children– can live a better life, independent of skill level, caste or religion

We strive to get an entire community involved. It may start with a small group, evolving, with time, into vibrant and dynamic community.

We share our professio-nal expertise. With new knowledge, skills and a change of attitude, people become agents of change in their communities.

All activities of the com-munity are covered: in-come generation, health, education, water, food se-curity, environment, social justice. Our approach is in-tegrated and sustainable.

All people in the commu-nity are the real actors. They build on their exis-ting assets. They contri-bute their time, money and energy. We help, sup-port and guide.

Model Communities:A ripple effect of good development practiceOver the long-term, the 360° approach results in villages becoming model communities. A “model community” is one where villagers have effected change on multiple levels and where all members enjoy basic human rights and dignity.

Witnessing the awakening of vibrant and dynamic communities, we have developed Our Model Community Initiative to support the actions of these communities ready for change and eager to transform their world.

o

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Message from our President

SOPAR - Bala Vikasa had a tremendous year.  Hundreds of thousands of people helped by enabling communities to take action and change their lives.   360° Community Driven Development at the core of all our activities.  The results continue to be seen, to be measured and felt.

This year, I would like to put emphasis on those that usually shy away from being recognized - the team that is enabling these changes possible.

At the foundation is the dedication and devotion of two inspiring founders.   Together, they had a dream, one that is changing the lives of millions of people.  Together, they set the vision and work ethic required to build an organization that is now getting national and international recognition.

Following in their foot step were the close friends on both sides of the ocean that believed in this mission and spent countless hours devoting their time and energy to the cause.  These early supporters remain long friends of the organizations - and many are still actively involved as donors, members and board members of SOPAR- or Bala Vikasa.

On both side of the ocean - a dedicated team work countless hours supporting the people in need. In India, the team is always innovating and expanding their activities.  Solar lights to increase safety in villages, cheaper and more effective water purification systems and we should not forget the innovative approach to development - with the Vikasa International Center.

In an economy where non-profits are struggling to achieve previous’ year targets, the Canadian team has surpassed expectations and increased proceeds by 9%. They got off the beaten path and started new initiatives like a documentary night in Gatineau and a targeted focus on institutions and businesses.

Our donors remain the backbone of SOPAR and Bala Vikasa. Some have been supporters of Sopar-

Bala Vikasa for decades.   Others, more recently joined our ranks and have started contributing with devotion and belief in the cause.  Thank you!

Finally, the final actors in this story, the thousands of courageous people that band together and take control of their destinies to better their lives.  They are the inspiration that fuels the passions in our lives.

Thank you!

Marc GingrasPresident

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Message from our President Word of the FoundersA return on the past year and an assessment of the results achieved in 2014, show an exceptional performance by all those involved with the organization, especially its board members and the staff. For their commitment and their professionalism they have to be commended.

In 2014, SOPAR-Bala Vikasa has continued to implement vigourously an important strategic shift allowing the organization to ttbe still more relevant at bringing still more sustainable development for the benefit of the poorest of the poor.

In 2014, a multitude of specific development activities and capacity building programs have been implemented – this annual report gives the numbers – but what is still more important is that, beyond these numbers, activities and programs, an integrated approach is being promoted and implemented at the grassroots for the benefit of thefragile sectors of the local communities: rural women, widows, small farmers, youth, poor students, etc. This approach called the “360 ° sustainable community development model” is working very well.

SOPAR-Bala Vikasa’s 360 ° approach is actually being implemented by more than 60 Indian villages which have become “model communities”. By the end of 2017, it is expected that this number will reach one hundred.

No wonder if, inter alia, inspired by SOPAR-Bala Vikasa results, Prime Minister Narenda Modi launched, October 11, 2014, the “Saansad Adarsh Gram Yojana (SAGY)” with, as objective, the creation throughout India, at least 2,500 model villagesin the next five years.

The 360° Sustainable Community Development approach has become our trademark. At a time when the organization is entering in partnership with the business sector, which is more and more aware of its Corporate Social Responsibility, the relevancy of this approach is recognized by the “for profit” sector.

In 2013, SOPAR- Bala Vikasa decided to launch in India its Vikasa International Center (VIC). The center is now a reality and is becoming an effective hub to share with the corporate sector our long and deep expertise in community development.

Bala Vikasa International Center is now a reality!

While we are still patiently waiting for a construction permit from the municipality of Hyderabad, in 2014, Vikasa International Center has methodically ascertained its role in CSR and social entrepreneurship: an Hyderabad office has been set up managed by a competent and dynamic manager; VIC network with the International, national and local corporate community is being developed; training syllabus and mentoring services for the small and medium size enterprises are being identified, prepared. Last March, VIC organized a P-Cubed Conference, which saw 160 participants from the corporate, social entrepreneurship and non-profit spaces came together to listen and deliberate on their role as agent of social change in the society.

The above are only few examples of the results achieved in 2014. They are the vibrant proof that SOPAR – Bala Vikasa which has, in 2014, increased its fundraising by 9% over the previous year, is not loosing its relevancy and its strong commitment to help building a just and equitable society in the world but particularly in India.

Congratulation to all of you, active and generous members of our SOPAR – Bala Vikasa family for a year of exceptional accomplishments!

Let’s go on with tenacity with our task!

André & Angel (Bala Theresa ) GingrasFounders

May 28, 2015

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Message from Our DirectorOur strategic plan guides us to continue the work we have already undertaken. The fiscal year 2014-15 has been another rewarding year and we were fortunate to reach our targets.

For over 37 years, the big family ‘SOPAR-Bala Vikasa’ has never stopped growing. I want to thank all of you donors that have helped us reach these new heights each in your own way and according to your own means.

It is an opportune moment to sincerely appreciate our beloved founders and loving couple Angele andAndre Gingras who are inspiring us and moving us forward with their selfless dedicated services. We cannot thank you enough!

With my 15+ years working with SOPAR-Bala Vikasa, I have deep appreciation for the dedicated, hardworking staff, board members and volunteers (in Canada and India) who keep our organization moving forward. Thank you! In January 2015, I had visited our programs in India and as usual, I felt very honoured to be part of such a committed team. I can truly say this is both a humbling and very rewarding experience.

During the year, in October we welcomed Martin Martel. I would like to thank particularly Janice Aubry, our program officer and Martin Martel our communications officer for their efforts, enthusiasm and team spirit. I’m always impressed by what our very small team of 3 at SOPAR accomplishes.

I take this opportunity to sincerely acknowledge the generous financial support we received for ourprograms from the Department of Foreign Affairs Trade and Development (DFATD former CIDA), institutions, foundations, corporations, schools and many individuals whose continuing commitment and support make our work possible.

We continue to break down the barriers of poverty and helping communities help themselves in rural India, which are starting to bear fruits through our new Model communities where people are with changed mindset, looking from Needs to Assets and following a Sustainable Path towards Development. In the following report you will see the main results achieved by various programs during the year 2014-2015.

I conclude by saying that, SOPAR-Bala Vikasa has come a long way. This success has not been without its challenges, but we look back and celebrate what we have achieved. We take lessons from our success and also from our mistakes. We need to do even more and we need to be constantly searching for new approaches to get things done. The voyage that started 37 years ago will continue with new dynamism, new vision and new motivation and the organization will attempt to achieve new heights. And I am counting on your renewed support in 2015 so that we can reach even higher!Merci! Thank you!

Vandanam!

Shobha SingareddyDirector

“Overcoming poverty is not a gesture of charity. It is an act of justice. It is the protection of a fundamental human right, the right to dignity and a decent life.” Nelson Mandela

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Message from Our Director

All our activities follow a 360° Community Driven Development approachthat encourages villagers to engage in their own development process andeffect change on multiple levels: social, financial, environmental, physicaland psychological. We emphasize the importance of a sense of unity,responsibility and leadership, and equal representation of men and women.

Community Development

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WATER and SANITATIONOBJECTIVESFacilitate access to drinking water and family toilets in order to improve the health and living conditions of the rural poor of southern India.

OUR ACTIONSThe Water Programallows for the construction of hand pump wells and the installation of water purification systems in villages requiring access to a source of drinking water or purified drinking water. We support the creation of local committees who play a key role in mobilizing villagers, planning, implementing and managing the projects. Communities as a whole are made aware of the importance of active participation, unity, local contribution and accountability of all partners.

The Sanitation Programallows for the construction of family toilets. We raise awareness among women and young people on adverse effects of open defecation and on how better sanitation systems enhance their health and hygiene.

83+6100

29605569

+20000

RESULTSborewells were built benefitting 24 950 beneficiaries

wells built to date

water purification systems were installed benefitting 58 300 people

total water purification systems built to date

families now have access to a family toilet

family toilets built to date

Increased self-esteem and privacy

Prevention of waterborne diseases, improved health and hygiene conditions

Increased sense of responsibility

Increased family revenue and school attendance

Environmental awereness

IMPACTSDid you know...About 130 million Indians lack accessible drinking water sources and 600 millions do not have access to a toilet. This has major consequences on health, hygiene and quality of life for millions of Indians living in villages. The water in and around Andhra Pradesh contains dangerously high levels of fluoride, which causes major health complications.

$

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WATER and SANITATION

RESULTS

««

Our committee members have been capacitated with the continuous trainings and monitoring visits by the representatives of Bala Vikasa. We have achieved complete knowledge and awareness on the accounting system and maintenance of the project. Gudipudi Sujitha

IMPACTS

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WOMEN and WIDOWSOBJECTIVESEmpower rural poor women and widows of southern India in order to improve their personnal, social and economic prospects and those of their families and their communities.

OUR ACTIONSThe Women IntegratedDevelopment Program builds the capacity and leadership of its women members. We focus on the creation of support groups bringing women together and helping them to become aware of the need for change. Through an integrated approach, we inform, sensitize, educate and train women to step up their decision-making power and influence. Active participation and an increased sense of responsibility are key elements of this program and ensure women mobilization and women positively transforming their surroundings. Our program strengthens the economic power of women by offering training in the basics of planning and financial management and by offering workshops that develop their skills. Our members have access to microcredit to develop their entrepreneurial initiatives.

The Widows Programfights against ancient superstitions related to widows. We reach out to widows to alleviate their suffering and social exclusion. We strengthen their capacities and leadership so that they regain dignity, confidence and autonomy. We create opportunities so that they can meet their own needs and those of their children. Our program also educates the whole society to question such practices and leads to change.

72812702238009000

5002942

RESULTSwomen members in 655 villages

women have benefited from microcredit

women trained at our convention «The role of women in modern society»

widows and thousands of women and men affected by our workshops on widows empowerment

young widows received mentoring and participated in monthly trainings

pregnant women and mothers of young children attended pre- and post-natal care training

Increased family income

Reduced suicide rates among widows

Increased contribution of women in community development

Reduced discrimination and gradual change in attitudes towards widows

Increased leadership potential

Increased literacy and education rates for girls

Increased self-esteem andself-confidence

IMPACTS$

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WOMEN and WIDOWS

RESULTS

« « I have revived with hope and confidence and know my rights, opportunities and how to live in dignity. Nobody can shatter my confidence now. Widow Ahalya 35 years-Dantalapally village, Warangal, Telangana

Did you know...Removing barriers to women’s employment could, through greater participation of women and greater labor productivity, increase production by 25% in some countries through better use of their skills and abilities (Cuberes Teignier -Baqué, 2011).

Everybody benefits from women’s development in all spheres of society: family, social, economic, political, ...

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CHILDREN and YOUTHOBJECTIVESFacilitate access to education of orphans, semi-orphans and poor children and empower youth in order that all can play a key role in the development of their communities.

OUR ACTIONSThe Orphan, Semi-Orphanand Poor Children Programcovers the tuition fees of the poorest children and offers them emotional support. Our women program members are the cornerstone of this program: they identify needy children in their community, they care for and build relationships with them, they facilitate their school integration, visit them and donate some of their savings for their success. Children feel loved, strong and secure. We offer preparatory school training as well as workshops on the importance of human values, discipline and perseverance. We also work with students and teachers to improve educational facilities, environmental practices and to provide school furniture for government-managed rural schools.

The Youth Programpromotes youth mobilization and involvement. We encourage youth to form support groups and inform and educate them. We help them achieve their full potential and create opportunities to facilitate their integration in the social, economic and political spheres through our Model Community Program.

3993134

258672

RESULTSchildren received help for their tuition fees

teenage girls received skills training in tailoring

rural schools received mini-libraries and classroom benches

students reached through our school program

Increased self-esteem and self-confidence

Increased leadership

Increased skills for workplaceintegration

Increased youth integration into the change process of their communities

School environments more conducive to learning

IMPACTS

Youth, our future...Did you know that there has never been as many children on the planet as there are today? Almost half of the 7 billion people on the planet are under the age of 25. This number reaches 600 million in India.Building a better and equitable future inevitably involves today’s youth.

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CHILDREN and YOUTH

RESULTS

IMPACTS «

«

In the beginning when I lost my parents I used to think that I have no one who cares for me but now I feel very happy. In the hostel where I live I feel that the children are my sisters and brothers. We are very much privileged to be a part of Bala Vikasa and get so many opportunities. Naveen from Jemmikunta

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FOOD SECURITYOBJECTIVESPromote the use of alternative methods of agriculture in order to facilitate the economic empowerment of southern India’s farmers and to increase the productivity of small-scale agriculture.

OUR ACTIONSThe Organic Farming Programencourages farmers to make the transition from chemical farming to organic farming. This eliminates extensive costs related to the purchase of pesticides/ insecticides, increases crop productivity and contributes to the sustainable development of the environment. We create support groups and organize a range of activities to inform and sensitize farmers. We have set up a demonstration farm where training is offered.

The Water Management Programintroduces farmers to the drip irrigation, a technique which increases productivity. We also work with communities to restore traditional water tanks helping to fertilize farmland and creating multiple social, economic and environmental benefits to the communities involved.

38030

1000

4580416000

RESULTSfarmers are now opting for organic farming

farmers benefited from silt collected in traditional tanks and used as a natural fertilizer on 4409 acres of land

farmers from 22 villages participated in our Convention «Organic farming for sustainable development»

fruit tree seedlings were planted in 191 villages

home fruit and vegetable gardens grown

Not easy being a farmerThe continuous decline of groundwater, low rainfall and financial difficulties weaken small-scale agriculture. Overwhelmed by the challenges to overcome, several farmers committed suicide.Over the last 15 years, 250 000 farmers in India committed suicide (BBC «Have India’s farm suicides really declined?» July 2014)

Increased agricultural production

Reduced costs related to the purchase of chemical fertilizers and higher income for farmers

Improved overall health

Awareness on harmful effects of chemicals on health and the environment

IMPACTS

$

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FOOD SECURITY

RESULTS

«

«

When I compare my organic and non-organic yields and outputs, I calculate that my net savings are very good, about Rs.8,000 ($160) - 10,000 ($200) per acre with organic cultivation. Added to this I am able to sell my produce at premium price. Sheela Madhusudhan Reddy

IMPACTS

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MODEL COMMUNITIESOBJECTIVESFacilitate the development of model communities in order to promote the emancipation and empowerment of rural villages of southern India.

OUR ACTIONSThe Model Community Programmobilizes, trains, guides, and supports communities motivated for change. We oversee the creation of elected committees to meet the challenges faced by the community. This program ensures that the villagers develop a sense of unity. Together and on their own initiative, they undertake original and varied development activities to meet the challenges faced in their communities: lack of access to clean water and medical services, family violence, excessive alcohol consumption, illiteracy, village uncleanliness and the needs of the poor, etc.

Witnessing the positive results of their actions, committees develop confidence in themselves and work to develop new projects. With time, we see the rise of dynamic communities who have no need of our charity or support and who are an example for the surrounding villages.

793200

2390

RESULTSvillages on the way to becoming a model community

committee members (1415 women) in charge of various development activities

committee members participated in our convention «My village, my responsibility»

Gangadevipallimodel village of IndiaBala Vikasa first intervened in Gangadevipalli more than twenty years ago and took up multiple development ac-tivities with the active participation and initiative of the village committees.

In October 2014, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi selected Gangadevipalli as a model village to showcase at the launch of his Model Village Scheme.

Increased self-esteem and self-confidence

Increased leadership skills

Increased sense of responsibility and unity

Increased villagers’ contribution to the development of their community

IMPACTS

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MODEL COMMUNITIES

RESULTS

«

«

Regular trainings, review and follow up meetings are the secret for the success of our projects. These trainings are the platform for us to plan activities together, evaluate the techniques used and reasons for failure. We learn from one another and being together for the same cause strengthens our bond. Shankar, Shanigaram village

IMPACTS

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HUMANITARIAN PROGRAMOBJECTIVESProvide assistance and support to rural poor and marginalized people to alleviate their suffering.

OUR ACTIONSThe Humanitarian Programassists those who cannot help themselves. As SOPAR’s mission is to support and nurture development practices of India’s underprivileged, we must address the precarious situation which these people endure.

Our women program members are very active in this program. They assist the elderly, poor or abandoned their village. They invite them for a meal, spend time with them and offer them moral support. With their help, we can offer support to those who need it most.

807988367

11217kg

77

RESULTSDonation of food, clothing and other provisions to:

elderly and needy

people with intellectual disabilities

children with physical disabilities

Donations from our women members:

rice

saris

« « Poverty is the worst form of violence.-Mahatma Gandhi

Development of a sense of solidarity and empathy in the villages

Increased wellness

IMPACTS

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HUMANITARIAN PROGRAM

RESULTS

The overarching mission of all capacity building initiatives carried out through Bala Vikasa is to provide knowledge, impart skills and change the attitudes of participants as regards development. We are unique in that our knowledge sharing programs are based on our field experience of nearly four decades; hence, we demonstrate through practical field visits what we talk about in the classroom.

IMPACTS

Capacity Building

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The PDTCOn average, 10,000 local and international individuals visit the PDTC annually to participate in its Capacity Building programs. We host programs for community leaders, women, youth, farmers, members of other non-profits from around the world, consultants, university students and other individuals interested in Community Driven Development.

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People Development Training CenterOBJECTIVESStrengthen the capacity of change agents from around the globe in order to improve the living conditions of disadvantaged people in India and elsewhere.

OUR ACTIONSTraining for local andinternational organizationsWe believe that development involves changing attitudes, knowledge sharing and skill development. This way, people increase their skills and their commitment and become agents of change in their community.

Civil society and governmental organizations participate in various interactive courses at our training center. The courses are offered by experts sharing their knowledge.

Change agents from around the globe participate three times a year in the Community Development Internship course offered to those who wish to live a cultural experience while developing their knowledge of community development.

679

881

RESULTSpeople from 268 organizations from 14 states across India participated in training programs on our approach to development and methods.

people from 17 countries participated in the Community Development Internship.

course was held outside of India, Nepal, for 26 participants from 17 NGOs.

Knowledge and development know-how transfer

Attitude and mentality change in development agents

IMPACTS

?!

«

«

The field exposure was amazing to see–thousands of women coming together, paying their own expenses was a real shock for me. I learnt that Bala Vikasa really motivates, loves and cares and builds a good relationship with the communities where they operate. It was amazing, wonderful.Golian Tuang Pu, Community Aid, Relief and Development – Myanmar - CDD

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Training Facilities5 lecture rooms with capacities varying from 40 to 150An auditorium with capacity of 200An amphitheatre with capacity of 400A richly stocked libraryDiscussion roomsDisplay arenasA comprehensive multi-media unit with camera and sound, editing equipment

Vikasa International Center(VIC)Training Center for Social Entrepreneurship and Business Responsibility

OBJECTIVESStrengthen the capacity of social entrepreneurs and the corporate sector to participate effectively in the sustainable development of their community.

OUR ACTIONSVICBala Vikasa’s newest wing, the Vikasa International Center (VIC), is quickly establishing itself as a strategic new player in the sector of CSR and Social Entrepreneurship. With an office in Hyderabad city, a professional team of staff, consultants and advisors being established and a calendar with specific goals and targets, VIC has set the foundation for exciting new developments in the coming year. While designs are being finalized for the construction of the center, VIC has already launched its name into the world of social entrepreneurship, CSR and business responsibility with a successful and well-received conference in March 2015. Internally, various policies and process frameworks are being developed to enhance the professionalism and establish a strong base for the scalability of the organization.

Curriculums for training programs in Social entrepreneurship (both introductory and advanced), Microenterprise Development and Entrepreneurship Development have been designed and are under review by a panel of specialists after which they will be submitted for accreditation to the relevant institutions. With the awareness that partnerships form the crux of our activities in this area, we are actively exploring collaborations with key institutions and organizations who will be able to give us the necessary leverage.

16030000

RESULTSparticipants attended our one-day training on social entrepreneurship

families benefit from water and sanitation projects funded by our partners in social responsibility

Knowledge and development know-how transfer

Increased contribution to sustai-nable community development

Change of attitude and mentality

IMPACTS

?!

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We aim to promote international cooperation and solidarity in Canada and to encourage people, young and old, to participate actively in the development of their society and the world. We want to inform and educate people about the issues and challenges of international development, while providing opportunities for community actions.

Canadian Public Awarenessand Community Presence

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Youth Changing the WorldOBJECTIVESAllow young Canadians to live an to live an experience in international cooperation in order to raise awareness on international development.

OUR ACTIONSYouth Changing the Worldis an educational program that enables Canadian students to gain international cooperation experience. To do this, students organize fundraising activities and contribute in this way to the construction of wells in India or by equipping schools with class furniture. A comprehensive educational outreach program is paired with these two projects.

Allowing youth to open up to the world at a young age is essential to ensure strong continuation in the world of international development. It is important to raise awareness on the various problems faced by humans.

We must not forget that today’s youth will be the decision makers of tomorrow.

33+7000

42

RESULTSschools from 8 provinces participated to YCW

students got involved inYCW program

wells were built, 4 classroom equiped with furniture and 1 water purification system got financed

awareness and discussion with teachers about international development issues

openness on international social issues

increased knowledge related to the challenges faced by rural poor of India

IMPACTS

A visit from a teacher involved with YCWShelley Saklatvala, a teacher from Beacon Hill School in Montreal came to visit in July. Over the years, her students have raised funds to build seven bore wells. Shelley has played an important role in bringing awareness on the challenges related to water and by convincing them to contribute. She was very inspired by her field visit and is determined to mobilize more funds in the future! Thanks Shelley!

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OUR ACTIONSDocumentary NightsSOPAR organized monthly Documentary Nights at the bistro Le Troquet in Gatineau. This location was chosen in order to bring SOPAR to a young adult audience. The thematic variety of submitted documentary has attracted people working in different areas (social justice, environment, gender equity, etc.)This action will in the medium term expand the sphere of influence and reputation of SOPAR in the region.

Participation in various eventsWe participate in various public events related to India and international development. These events are a great opportunity to explain SOPAR’s mission, actions and approach, and encourage people to get involved in the organization.

Journées Québécoises de solidarité internationale (JQSI)Week of activities open to the public eager to learn about the current issues of international solidarity.

ICOBC The Indo Canada Ottawa Business Chamber finances and organizes activities that benefit businesses and the Indo-Canadian community.

Festival of IndiaCommunity event that aims to educate people of the region of the national capital on Indian culture.

Community Presence in CanadaOBJECTIVESEnsure visibility in the community in order to educate Canadians on international development topics, open them up to the world and encourage them to get involved in international cooperation.

RESULTS5documentary nights

+200participants

Partnershipscreated

3public awareness events

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FinancialStatements

Community Presence in Canada

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FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2014-15

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DFATD - Partnership

5 year Program, $977,208,

57%

Individual Donors,

$208,268, 12%

Institutions and

Corporations, $505,101,

30%

Interest , $22,314,

1%

REVENUES

SOPAR-BALA VIKASA FINANCIAL AS ON MARCH 31ST 2015

2015 2014 REVENUES

DFATD - Partnership 5 year Program 977,208 968,898

Individual Donors 208,268 229,360

Institutions and Corporations 505,101 1,280,341

Interest 22,314 25,770

1,712,891 2,504,369

EXPENSES DFATD - 5 year program 1,302,943 1,287,730

General Administration costs 23,657 48,083

Other SOPAR programs in India 22,000 74,000

Humanitarian and Education Program in India 202,200 250,150

Vikasa International Center (VIC) 150,000 825,000

1,700,800 2,484,963

NET 12,091 19,406

DFATD - 5 year

program , $1,302,943,

77%

General Admin. costs,

$23,657, 1%

Other SOPAR

programs in India,

$22,000, 1%

Humanitarian and

Education Program in

India, $202,200,

12%

Vikasa International

Center, $150,000,

9%

EXPENSES

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BIG THANKSTo our team in IndiaHelping communities help themselves is much more than just a slogan, it is a way of life. The Bala Vikasa team does an exemplary job by implementing relevant and sustainable programs and this, effectively and with a lot of heart. You are more than an inspiration to us, you are our role model.

To our donorsWithout the support of its members, SOPAR would not be the renowned organization that it is today. It is thanks to all those people who not only support the mission but generously donate time and money that we managed to accomplish what we have accomplished to date. This commitment is also very present in the educational community where schools have been raising money to fund many of our programs for more than 15 years. It is encouraging to think that the youth of today, committed and open, will be tomorrow’s decision makers. Helping communities to help themselves would be a difficult task without the unfailing and continuous assistance DFATD as well as numerous foundations, Canadian religious institutions and congregations. We will be eternally grateful to all of you. On behalf of the millions of Indians who have benefited from your support over the past 38 years, we thank you.

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2014-15

VANDANAM!

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SOPAR (SOciety for PARtnership)No. Registration: 119156578RR0001Address:1 chemin des ÉrablesGatineau, QCJ8V 1C1 Canada1-819-243-3616, [email protected]

Bala Vikasa Social Service SocietyNo. Registration: 569/1991No. FCRA No: 010360036Address: H. No. 1-1-867Siddarthanagar, NIT PostKazipet, Warangal, A.P. 506 004, IndeTel: + 870-2459-287Cell: [email protected],www.balavikasa.org

SOPAR-Bala Vikasa Society USANo. Registration: 46-0931830P.O. Box 450Chatley, MA USA 02712


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