SPHOORTI is a simple grassroots organization working for underprivileged children - homeless, orphaned, abandoned and other at-risk groups. I was introduced to this organization by one of my friends.

On May 31st, 2008 I got a chance to join these kids for their trip to the zoo in Hyderabad. My friend and me went to SPHOORTI at around 9 AM. I was really overwhelmed by the response from the kids. Everyone greeted us calling ‘hi anna’(hi brother) and introduced themselves. Everyone told their names and shook hands with us. The innocence which we find in kids is very hard to find in adults. It was really overwhelming and I can’t really put into words what I felt for the first few minutes I have spent with them. Few of them danced for a song and they all looked very talented.

We reached the zoo at around 11.00AM and there were 38 kids with us. This was my first ever visit to a zoo. So, even I was excited like a kid.

All the kids were so disciplined that they never required any instructions. This has impressed me a lot. Initially I had a little doubt that few of the kids may miss and we have to frequently check the count. But that was not the case, they were so self responsible and really acted like adults.

I will never forget this day in my life and this is the most purposeful and satisfying day in the last few months. This was my first ever visit to an orphanage(they don’t like to call it an orphanage, sorry but could not find any other word). I had promised myself that I will help these kids in whatever way I can.

Srivyal Vuyyuri is the man behind this organization. Please visit the Sphoorti Foundation Website to know more about the organization and how you can help them. They are trying to take more kids into the organization and expand the scope. Visit the website for more details and how you can get involved in this noble cause.

Videos can be found here: http://www.youtube.com/user/srivyal

I will update this post when I get the photos from my friends.