India: Jeevan Jyoti marks 25 years of empowering the marginalized

Jeevan Jyoti (light of life) Community Center, the social work department of Khairabad, Sitapur District, Lucknow, India, celebrated its 25 years of committed service to the marginalized on March 22. 

Established as a ministry of the Sisters of the Holy Cross, Menzingen, North Indian Province, the Center has been a beacon of hope and empowerment for vulnerable communities, championing self-help, self-reliance, and human dignity.

The celebration was a joyful and inspiring occasion, graced by Sister Linet, the Provincial, whose presence uplifted all those in attendance. 

Sr. Therese Mary, directress of Jeevan Jyoti Community Center, presented the annual report, highlighting the Center’s impactful journey. 

She reaffirmed Jeevan Jyoti’s mission to continue empowering the underprivileged, enabling them to build brighter and self-sufficient futures.

The silver jubilee celebration also featured vibrant cultural performances by students and beneficiaries, reflecting the transformative impact of Jeevan Jyoti’s efforts in education, skill development, and social empowerment. 

More than just marking a milestone, the event stood as a living testament to the countless lives touched and uplifted by the Center’s mission.

Among the inspiring stories shared was that of Mrs. Geeta Jaiswal from Kajiyara village. She spoke about how Jeevan Jyoti’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs) transformed her life, empowering her socially and financially. 

Mrs. Jaiswal has since become a catalyst for change, helping uplift many women in her village while promoting education, health awareness, and social consciousness.

Urmladevi, President of a Self-Help Group (SHG) in Kareem Nagar, shared how the livelihood support provided by Jeevan Jyoti empowered women in her group to achieve economic independence and improve their quality of life. 

Similarly, Sheela Devi from Karbalapur village commended Jeevan Jyoti’s collaboration with the Functional Vocational Training and Research Society (FVTRS). 

This partnership has equipped many youths, including Sheela, with valuable skills, enabling them to secure sustainable livelihoods and support their families.

An especially moving story was that of Aman, a young boy from Karanpur, Sitapur, who lives with cerebral palsy. As part of Jeevan Jyoti’s program for differently-abled children, Aman took part in “Quizled,” a quiz competition for children with disabilities. 

He won the second prize for his outstanding performance and received a memento as a token of his perseverance and achievements.

Jeevan Jyoti has also made a significant impact on public health, especially through its dedicated work in combating tuberculosis (TB). 

The center has diagnosed, treated, and cured over 70,000 patients, playing a crucial role in improving community health and curbing the spread of TB in the region. Awareness campaigns on TB and leprosy are ongoing, as both diseases remain prevalent in Sitapur District.

The chief guest, Ms. Richa Singh, a well-known social activist and member of Sangtin Kisan Mazdoor Sangathan, Sitapur, delivered an inspiring address on the significance of grassroots social work.

She commended Jeevan Jyoti Community Center’s unwavering dedication to uplifting the marginalized and encouraged other organizations to adopt similar community-driven approaches.

In a spirit of gratitude, the event honored key contributors by presenting mementos to beneficiaries, volunteers, and supporters who played pivotal roles in Jeevan Jyoti’s 25-year journey.

Over the past quarter-century, Jeevan Jyoti has made a profound impact by:

• Establishing and strengthening Self-Help Groups (SHGs), empowering hundreds of women socially and economically.

• Providing skill development and vocational training to youth and women, enabling them to secure sustainable employment.

• Supporting differently-abled children, helping them overcome challenges and achieve personal growth.

• Leading extensive public health initiatives, including a successful TB Control Program, has benefited over 70,000 patients.

• Fostering education and social awareness, thereby improving the overall well-being of the communities it serves.

With a legacy rooted in transformation, Jeevan Jyoti Community Center remains steadfast in its mission to empower the marginalized in the years ahead. The Center has outlined ambitious plans, including:

• It is expanding the skill development programs to equip more youth and women with industry-relevant skills.

• It is strengthening educational and vocational opportunities for differently abled children.

• It is collaborating with government bodies and NGOs to enhance healthcare access and social welfare services.

• It promotes digital literacy in rural communities to help bridge the digital divide.

As Jeevan Jyoti marked its Silver Jubilee, the celebration served as a reaffirmation of its commitment to being a beacon of hope and empowerment.

With the blessings of the Sisters of the Holy Cross, Menzingen, North Indian Province, and the tireless efforts of its dedicated team, the Center pledged to continue driving meaningful change.

The event concluded with a collective vow to deepen their impact, ensuring the next 25 years are marked by even greater transformation in the lives of the poor and marginalized.