Vinod is the older brother of Laxmi, Santosh, and Kiran (the family that was originally in an orphanage in Ghandinagar). I have known him for more than 4 years!

When I met him he was only 15 years old and a big mess. He worked for the mafia in downtown Mumbai. They taught him English as well as bits and pieces from at least 4 other languages, in exchange for taking all of his money and youth.

He became addicted to some sort of chemical or drug; gruff and rude. He always came to talk to me, and depending on his state, we sat and chatted. He knows I won’t talk to him if he is drunk, high or rude. With time, week by week, he calmed down, broadened some of his thinking and become gosh darn likable!

Against the advice of many people, I took the chance and hired him. He does odd and end jobs here and there, and studies English. He now knows every letter and can put many simple words together.

WOW! Wes Hosford Elementary School (grades 1-6) has done it again. The students used some of our pictures to make SUPER posters describing the work of One! International, and showing all the things needed for the teaching experience in India. They then proceeded to collect seven boxes of all the things that are needed: small stuffed animals, small toys, toothbrushes, tooth paste, puzzles, pens, pencils, scissors, erasers, soap, crayons, reading books, sewing supplies, candy, clothes, paper, craft sets, glue sticks, pencil sharpeners, assorted jewelry, and many other things.

In addition the students raised $300 in cash. The students are soooooooooo enthusiastic and interested in learning about and sharing with students from the other side of the world.

What a crazy couple of months of volunteers...we have never been soo lucky! In the span of 2 months we have had two volunteers come and go, and two volunteers come and stay!

The first of the group to arrive was Sonal Bapodra from England. She met us at the airport with a huge smile and evident enthusiasm. She wanted to start immediately and has put so much love and energy into the tasks assigned to her.

Sandra Baumgartner, from Switzerland, arrived the day after Sonal. In her short time with us, she was able to do something that no-one else has been able to do...make Bhagyashree sit, work, and listen. Sandra’s calm, confident yet strict manner had a wonderful effect on the children. She left in the middle of November to the children’s dismay.

Nayur Bapodra of England (Sonal’s brother) arrived three weeks later and the children automatically loved him. He has an excellent fun-loving nature with the children but is very authoritative. He has been a fabulous role model for the boys who have been learning sports outside of class and listening better inside.

Helen Arnott spent two weeks with us in November. The children were spoiled with her mothering nature and helpful hands.