Children face numerous social problems in slum area. Poverty, illiteracy, discrimination, inferiority complex, alcoholism and other addictions are some of the major problems these children have to live with. They are routinely exposed to physical fights and verbal abuse that goes on around them. Though the main thrust of Khelghar is children’s education, we believe that enabling children to find solutions to problems confronting them is also an integral component of education. Therefore we extend support whenever such issues arise and also prepare children and parents to find ways out. This work is certainly challenging and demanding and we are trying to cope with it with whatever resources and strength that we have.

Though Khelghar is a place for children’s development, adult members associated with it also learn and develop a lot in the process. Some the areas of constant exploration and learning include the process of child’s learning, building enabling environment for child’s development and do’s and don’ts in this regard. We also try to equip ourselves better by taking inputs on specific areas, such as conceptual understanding, team work and counseling. The willingness of volunteers to learn and keep afresh motivates children to take required efforts for their own development and learning.

Khelghar has completed ten years by now. The effort which once was initiated by a concerned individual is now taken over by a group of people. The team of 15 volunteers is working with devotion and commitment. Some senior students and parents also participate in this work. The impact of this work can be seen at various levels. The children’s interest in education is increased and proportion of children passing the exams has improved considerably. For instance, in 2006, fifty eight children out of sixty cleared their annual exams with good marks.
Earlier the drop out rate of girls was very high, especially in class 7. But now girls are continuing education till class 10. It is certainly an attitudinal change among them and their parents. The participation of children in various activities is impacting their thinking and behavior. They can articulate their thoughts and also let others express their views. The children associated with Khelghar are more or less aware of what they want and keep themselves away from improper things.

We plan to carry out present activities with the same spirit and zeal in future. We also hope to reach out to more children in Laxminagar. We are planning to share our skills and experience to other people who wish to initiate similar efforts.