Providing lifespan services to individuals with special needs...
Strides Newsletter - July 2025 - Issue 229
Early Intervention and V-Excel Remedial Centre
From the staff of Early Intervention and V-Excel Remedial Centre
Greetings from Early Intervention and the Remedial Unit!
Transformative Journey of Parva Gupta
Parva Gupta, a vibrant 3-year-old, embarked on a remarkable journey at V-Excel in June 2023, where he was assessed to be having challenges with speech and hyperactivity. Through therapy sessions and remedial support, he blossomed into a confident and capable boy.
Breaking Barriers
Initially, Parva faced challenges with:
- Hyperactive behavior: Difficulty with sitting, standing tolerance, and waiting skills
- Speech and expressions: Limited verbal communication and self-expression
With targeted therapy, Parva demonstrated significant progress in:
- Speech and language: Improved articulation, vocabulary, and meaningful conversations
- Cognitive skills: Mastered puzzles, task completion, and enhanced problem-solving abilities
- Social skills: Developed association and identification skills, interacting effectively with peers and instructors
- Academic milestones: Traced alphabets and numbers, counted meaningfully, and engaged in short conversations.
Parva showcased
good linguistic abilities:
- Language comprehension: Understood English, Tamil, and Hindi
- Effective communication: Responded coherently in all three languages
Independence and Confidence
As Parva progressed, he:
- Followed routines: Executed daily tasks without prompts, demonstrating growing independence
- Reading and math: Successfully read 3-letter words, performed basic addition, and wrote with proper spacing
A New Chapter
By April 2025, after nearly two years of therapy and Remedial sessions , Parva was ready to take the next step in his journey- attending a school. With these skills and confidence, he is sure to thrive in his new environment and we wish him all the very best.
Kudos to all those who made this happen !! The EI/ VRC team.
Kaleidoscope Learning Centre
From Shashikala Subramaniam's Desk
July 2025 Strides for KLC
Love paints the world in vibrant shades of happiness.
Days of camaraderie, building relationships and dreaming:
The Annual Townhall Meeting of V-Excel was held on July 4th which is a day of gathering and meeting all the other staff of the other units of V-Excel from across Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra. This time it was a day spent in training and improvising with two important modalities of movement and speech. There was an opportunity for expression, self-awareness, becoming aware of intra and interpersonal skills. It was conducted by Mr. Bala and his team from Theatre Nisha, at Anna Centenary Library, Chennai. It was a good start to the year, and it was an enjoyable and fruitful day.
The Townhall was followed by the Annual Unit Heads' meetings on July 5th and 6th where each Unit head shared what their work entitled, what their vision for the future was, and what was needed by them to make it come alive. It was a time of revelations to hear the wonderful ideas and efforts that went into each unit and to know how purposefully and effectively each center has been catering to the students.
Times of change and growing up:
A Graduation ceremony was held on 7 July, and this year Nausheen moved from kindergarten to Grade 1, Himal, Srinath and Kaavyasri from Grade 1 to Grade 2 , Shyam, Manas and Mithra from Junior school to the vocational group – and most importantly one of our students – Adithya moved from KLC to the Youth Empowerment Services – Vocational unit. A simple ceremony with the students and old teachers and new teachers was held with the whole school watching and cheering them.
Music Time:
This is a big favourite of students of KLC, and some days we have a different audience, visitors and birthday celebrations where familiar songs are sung and enjoyed by all.
Music plays an important role in our curriculum and so the main lesson story was brought in the form of “Villupaatu - Bow Song” to the students of the vocational group, by the teachers. Villupaatu is an ancient form of musical story telling method performed in Southern India where narration is interspersed with music.
Krishna and Tarang:
Krishna – The most benevolent one – a Bharatanatyam ensemble presentation by Smt. Roja Kannan's Bharatha Natyalaya, was the Tarang program on July 17th at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan. It was a beautiful experience for the students, and everyone was mesmerized by the stories told, the dancers and the live music nattuvangam by the musicians. The intricate but precise pinnal aatam by the dancers was the highlight of the program.
New Skills learnt:
Students learn skills – both academic and vocational everyday through the rich curriculum drawn up for them. Here are a few instances – Nausheen picking up the number cards, Parvathy learning to cut vegetables and Salman cooking. Each of these steps is a moment of joy for us as teachers. Sharing them with you all.
Observation, Learning and Understanding:
11th standard students of Psychology of Kola Perumal Chetty Vaishnav Sr. Sec. School, visited KLC to observe the students, learn about the interventions and therapies, talk to the counselor who works with the parents and adolescent students, and to meet Neha who talked about the philosophy of how we work. It was an interactive session when the young students asked some deep questions they had. The students got emotional seeing and interacting with the children. For us at KLC, these encounters are precious as they help in spreading awareness.
V-Excel Educational Trust
Townhall 2025
✨A Day to Remember ✨ V-Excel Townhall 2025 - 4-July-2025.✨
All units of V-Excel from across India came together at Anna Centenary Library, Chennai, for a day that celebrated unity, creativity, and shared purpose.
Led by Mr. V. Balakrishnan and the Theatre Nisha team, the sessions included storytelling, movement, theatre-based activities, and engaging games all designed to encourage expression, connection, and participation.
A heartfelt thank you to Mr. V. Balakrishnan and the entire Theatre Nisha team for curating such a meaningful and engaging experience.
We also extend our warmest thanks to the entire V-Excel family who came together to make this Townhall 2025 truly special .🧡
Sitaare Zameen Par
✨A unique experience for all of us at V-Excel.
Sitaare Zameen Par has been making waves on social media and at the box office, thanks to its compelling storyline and the remarkable cast who brought it to life. A generous well-wisher and friend of V-Excel sponsored movie tickets for all KLC students, making it possible for them to attend a show. We are grateful to Aparna Bubna for coordinating the ticketing arrangements so seamlessly.
For many of our children, this was their very first visit to a movie theatre and their joy was truly moving. They watched with full attention, smiled, laughed, and connected deeply with the emotions portrayed on screen. It was a moment of pride, warmth, and shared emotion for all of us.
We are immensely grateful to the creators of Sitaare Zameen Par ❤️for crafting such a meaningful film and for choosing actors who embody the spirit of inclusion so beautifully. Your work resonated with us, made our children feel seen and celebrated, and left an unforgettable impression on our hearts.
Tarang Musical Concert
The monthly Tarang concert was held at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Mylapore on July 17, 2025.
The theme of the event was Krishna - The Most Benevolent One, A Bharatanatyam ensemble presentation by Smt. Roja Kannan's Bharatha Natyalaya.
Click here to watch Tarang on YouTube.
An afternoon filled with grace, rhythm, and devotion ✨
Swipe through to witness the beautiful moments from the Bharatanatyam ensemble by Smt. Roja Kannan's Bharatha Natyalaya, where the avatarams of Lord Krishna were brought to life with elegance and expression.
Our heartfelt thanks to the incredibly talented dancers for their soulful performance and to the wonderful audience especially our children whose joy, applause, and voices made the atmosphere truly magical 💛
Media
We're truly honoured to see Tarang, our monthly cultural space for individuals with special needs, featured in @the_hindu.
For the past 15 years, Tarang has been a space for connection, creativity, and inclusion where music becomes a bridge that brings us all closer.
Thank you for recognising this journey and everyone who has been part of it.
📰 Please click this link to the article.
Empowering Through Every Stitch
At V-Excel's YES Center, every stitch tells a story 💛
Our amazing trainees crafted custom hats with care and creativity for the Dynamic Communication & Leadership program by Ms. Priya Sandeep, Co-founder of One Glance Software Services Pvt. Ltd.
Being part of this journey wasn't just about making hats it was about building confidence, learning new skills, and being included in something meaningful.
Thank you for believing in our trainees and for the opportunity 🌟
Satellite Centers
From Jayanthi Vishwanath at Nashik
July 5, 2025: Brahmakumari's session
Brahmakumari's session held at Agrasen Bhavan for V-Excel students
During the Brahma Kumaris session, children enthusiastically participated in various games and activities. Winners were awarded T-shirts and other prizes.
Children received T-shirts in chart observation and colouring competition, soft ball throw game, floor Snakes and Ladders.
Children watched a short 3-minute visual story of a girl who connects with the universe and transforms her attitude from negative to positive. They answered questions and reflected on the message of the story.
The session ended with a calm and focused 2-minute meditation for all the students.
Additionally, a parents' counselling session was conducted with positive thought charts and visuals to promote positivity and motivation among parents as well.
July 8, 2025: Craftizen Rakhi Making workshop
Online Rakhi-Making Session by Craftizen.
An engaging online Rakhi-making session was conducted by Craftizen, attended by a few teachers from V-Excel Nashik. The session showcased creative and unique Rakhi designs with practical demonstrations.
July 10, 2025: Ashadhi Ekadashi Celebrated with Devotion Across All Three Centres
Ashadhi Ekadashi was joyfully celebrated at all three centres, where children dressed in traditional attire carried the sacred Tulsi plant in a procession. They sang bhajans and offered prayers to Lord Vitthal avatar of Lord Vishnu. The celebration concluded with the distribution of prasad.
July 11, 2025
Guru Purnima Celebrated Across All Three Centres
On 11th July, Guru Purnima was celebrated at all three centres. Children expressed their love and gratitude towards their teachers by offering roses as a token of respect.
July 12, 2025: Agarbatti-Making Workshop by Craftizen
A hands-on Agarbatti (incense stick) making workshop was conducted by Craftizen at the Nashik Association for the Blind School as a part of Vocational Skill development. A few teachers from V-Excel attended the session, where the proportioning and preparation of incense sticks using machines was practically demonstrated.
July 30, 2025: Fire Extinguisher Demonstration at VLC and VTU
A practical fire extinguisher demonstration was conducted at both VLC and VTU, where children observed and learned about the mechanism and use of fire extinguishers.
July 31, 2025: "Tanvi The Great" Movie Screening Touches Hearts at V-Excel
A special screening of Tanvi the Great, a film based on the journey of an autistic child, was organized for all students, teachers, staff, and a few parents at V-Excel. Our children thoroughly enjoyed the movie, cheering when Tanvi pursued her dream of joining the army academy. The most touching moment came when the elder children clapped in response to the powerful line, “The opposite of normal is not abnormal, it's extraordinary.”.
It was a truly heartwarming experience, reminding us that our children are different, but never less — they are extraordinary.
From Therapy & Learning Centre, Pandharpur
Activity on Nagpanchami
On 29th July 2025, Early Intervention Group took part in a clay activity to make snakes on the occasion of Nagpanchami.
Middle age group children did colour activity - Thumb printing on Snake pictures. Teacher shared information about snakes with the children.
Solapur
Ashadi Ekadashi Celebration - 4th July, 2025
Ashadi Ekadadshi is a hindu festival it marks beginning of the auspicious day dedicated to lord Vishnu. Often worshiped in the form of vitthal. At our V-Excel Centre we celebrated Ashadi Ekadashi on 4th July. Students were in traditional wear some of them were warkari and some were Vitthal Rukmini. A dindi procession where students walked together near Vitthal temple,Conducting such fruitful dindi and inculcating the importance of religious festival. Student chanted Bhajan and slogans Vitthal Vitthala Hari Om Vitthala and Jai Jai Ram Krishna Hari. Some students sang songs of Lord Vittal. Students and teachers played fugadi and ringan.
Guru Purninma - 10th July, 2025
In essence, Guru Purnima is a powerful occasion to acknowledge the profound influence of teachers and mentors in shaping individuals' lives and guiding them towards a more meaningful existence. Guru purnima at our V-Excel centre celebrated on 10th july. what is importantance of Guru purnima explained to our children. On this precious day our V-Excel school shifted in new premises, we began with Pooja of Guru purnima our new premises of school. Children's were made greeting cards, flower bouquet and made drawings for their teachers.Teachers received such thoughts full gifts from their students. Teachers blessed their students.
Teachers Training Programme - 12th July, 2025
Sensory Integration training program conducted by Laxmi Sudhakaran mam, she is sensory integration therapist and psychologist. this program is conducted online as well as practically also. The training is started on 9th June through online mode and 23 teachers were participated 16 from Solapur centre,5 from Nasik and 2 from Pandharpur. In this training program Laxmi mam given information about sensory issues of child and how to know need of child, how diet plays an important role to reduce problems of child,lot many things related sensory issues and technics that can help child to settle. She demonstrated verious practical activities related to calming, texture needs, physical exercises, development of imagination etc. This training program was very helpful to teachers and made lot many questions cleared.
Parents Teacher Meeting - 26th July, 2025
26th July at our V-Excel Centre we conducted parents meeting with their children class teacher's. In that meeting we discussed IEP of child and goals, also home plan is given to parents.
Naag Panchami Celebration - 28th July, 2025
Nag Panchami, a Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of snakes, is celebrated with great fervor in various parts of India, particularly in states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh. It falls on the fifth day (Panchami) of the bright half of the lunar month of Shravan. Devotees offer milk, sweets, and flowers to snake idols and visit temples dedicated to Nagas (serpent deities). The festival is believed to bring good luck, prosperity, and protection from snakebites. At our V-Excel centre we celebrated Naag Panchami on 28th July. Students made snakes by mud and made Varul which means anthill or termite hill,girls puts mehandi on hands . Did Pooja of mud snakes and termite hill.
Erode
*Art Exploration – DIY Workshop with Arpith Ashok at Erode centre*
Erode centre hosted an inspiring “Art Exploration – DIY Workshop” today 24th July 2025, led by Arpith Ashok, a talented special artist known for his vibrant works and determination . Priya, the technical Coordinator introduced Arpith and set the tone for an uplifting afternoon session of creativity and learning.
The session commenced with Arpith's artistic journey, highlighting not just his exceptional skills but also his experiences as an autistic artist pushing boundaries and spreading joy through art. Arpith then spoke candidly about his distinct perspective, sharing invaluable insights into how art serves as both a therapeutic outlet and a mode of self-expression for him as an autistic individual.
He explained the core activity of the workshop—Pouch Painting—emphasising its benefits in reducing stress, enhancing focus, and stimulating the release of happy hormones. Arpith also touched upon the psychological impact of colors, encouraging participants to choose freely and paint intuitively.
Though there was initial hesitation, participants were soon motivated by one another's enthusiasm and willingness to experiment. As brushes moved and colors spread, everyone became thoroughly engrossed in the creative process.
The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many sharing that the experience evoked a sense of nostalgia and pure joy. The workshop not only unlocked creativity but also fostered a sense of togetherness and mindfulness among all attendees.
Overall, the Art Exploration DIY Workshop led by Arpith Ashok turned out to be a memorable, uplifting event—reminding everyone of the timeless power of artistic expression and community.
From Outreach Remedial Center, Pollachi
• Group Therapy Session – 11
During our 11th group therapy session, we carried out a series of targeted and structured activities aimed at supporting the development of early intervention students. The activities focused on sensory input, physiotherapy, gross motor skills, visual processing, and speech, all of which help enhance the children's coordination and concentration.
• Trainee To Mentor
One of our very own special student KASHYAP KANNA, who once learned and progressed within our center, has now become a music trainer for the current special students. Today, he received his first salary from us — a proud milestone reflecting his dedication, talent, and personal growth.
• Interstate Yoga Competition
We are proud to share that our special students achieved remarkable success at the interstate yoga competition held in Coimbatore on July 27. Through their hard work and determination, they secured the 1st and 10th prizes, standing out among participants from various states. Their achievement is a true testament to their dedication, discipline, and the supportive training they received.
• Visit by Dr. Joy – The Principal of Vishwadeepthi Higher Secondary School, Pollachi
A heartfelt Visit from Our Well-Wisher, Fr. Joy Karipai, Principal, Viswadeepthi Hr. Sec School, Pollachi. We were honored to welcome, Fr. Principal, who truly understands our journey and service. His visit was a moment of pride and reflection. As an alumnus, returning to my school feels deeply meaningful — it's my turn to give back to the place that instilled in me the values of compassion and service. Grateful for the virtues that shaped me and the joy of giving that continues to guide my path.
• Art Therapy For Emotional Wellness Of Remedial Students
Art therapy offers remedial students a creative outlet to express their emotions, reduce stress, and build self-confidence. Through drawing, painting, and other forms of visual art, students can process their feelings in a safe and supportive environment. This therapeutic approach enhances emotional regulation, boosts self-esteem, and supports overall mental well-being.
• Counselling For Behaviour Modification Of Remedial Students
Counselling helps remedial students develop positive behaviours and coping strategies. Through guided sessions, students learn to understand their actions, manage emotions, and replace challenging behaviours with constructive alternatives. This supportive process encourages personal growth, improves classroom behaviour and better social interactions.
From Anandam Special School, Ambattur
July 2:
Sitaare Zameen Par Movie at AGS Porur. Children enjoyed very much.
July 7:
Tamilselvan getting ready for Tennis National championship at Gwalior. He won silver medal.
July 19:
Annual day Anandam Old age Home was celebrated on 19th July with colourful programs of all the units of Anandam
July 20:
Our students who won the state award cultural competition performed for Rotary club Chennai and won cash award.
July 23:
A parents group along with Anand Ji visited the school.
July 24:
Students from Omayal Achi College of Nursing visited the school.
July 24:
Lunch was provided to our students & staff by Sun TV.
July 24:
Some of our teachers visited MDA to get trained on how to use the maths kit with LD students.
July 26:
AIEMA organised a Job fair. Our teachers visited to collect information regarding that.
July 29:
Actor Snehan & family visited the school & spent some time.
July 31:
Monthly colour day and birthday was celebrated.
Abhyasa Kendra, Srirangam
July 4, 2025:
Ms. Sathya Saravanan and Ms. Latha Nagarajan attended the Annual Town Hall Meeting held at the Anna Centenary Library, Kotturpuram, Chennai.
July 18, 2025:
Shri Anand Jagadeesan, Advisor, and Shri S. P. B. Sivaprakash, Assistant General Manager – Administration, from the V-Excel Educational Trust Head Office, R.A. Puram, Chennai, visited the Srirangam Unit. The purpose of their visit was to meet students and parents for new consultations and admissions, interact with staff members, review the progress of children in the Vocational Training and Remedial Units, and discuss the vocational training programs planned for the academic year 2024–2025.
Garden Activity:
During the month of July, staff and students collaboratively planned a garden setup. As part of this initiative, they creatively repurposed water cans into plant pots and decorated them using colorful paints.
Staff Activities:
Staff members were actively engaged in preparing the Lesson Plan and Home Program for parents, compiling success stories of trainees, conducting task analysis, and developing the Annual Calendar for the academic year 2025–2026.
Tirunelveli
Celebrating the Grand Ther Thiruvizha at Nellaiyappar Temple
On July 8, 2025, the Nellaiyappar Temple in Tirunelveli was a buzz with excitement as it hosted its grand Ther Thiruvizha, or chariot festival. This significant event is a cherished tradition in the temple's calendar, attracting devotees from far and wide. The festival's highlight is the majestic temple car, elaborately decorated with vibrant colors and intricate designs, which is pulled through the streets by enthusiastic devotees.
A Learning Experience for Our Children
Our center had planned to take the kids to witness this spectacle and be a part of the festivities. Although the children couldn't participate on the scheduled day, July 8, 2025, we rescheduled the outing to July 10, 2025. Before the visit, we took the opportunity to educate the children about the significance of the chariot festival, its decorations, and the rituals associated with it. We explained how the chariot is beautifully adorned and pulled by devotees, sharing the story behind this ancient tradition.
On July 10, 2025, the children visited the Nellaiappar Temple and participated in the rituals. They had a wonderful time exploring the temple premises and took part in the darshan, the sacred viewing of the deity. After a fulfilling day, they returned to the center, filled with happy memories of their visit.
This outing not only provided the children with a unique cultural experience but also helped them develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of the traditions and heritage of our community
Bhagavan Ramana Center for Specially-Abled Children, Thiruvannamalai
Ashram Gosala Visit
Our visits to the Ashram Gosala are a cherished experience for our children. As they feed and interact with the cows and calves, they learn valuable lessons about compassion, responsibility, and empathy. These visits not only bring them joy but also provide a unique opportunity to connect with nature and develop a deeper appreciation for the world around them.
This experience is also a form of Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT), which involves trained animals visiting people to provide comfort, emotional support, and therapeutic benefits. AAT has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and increase social interaction and communication skills. For our children, AAT provides a unique and engaging way to develop emotional intelligence, build confidence, and foster a sense of well-being.
Parents meeting
V-Excel Therapy Centre, Kolapakkam
Greetings from V-Excel Therapy Centre, Kolapakkam!
World Chocolate Day:
World Chocolate Day was celebrated on 7th July 2025. "Life is like a box of chocolates; you never know what you're going to get." On the occasion of International Chocolate Day, we make our kids cut the shape of chocolate and color the chocolate with their favorite colors. To make the day even sweeter,We also introduce them to some of our traditional candies, such as Kadalai mittai, Kamarkut and Ellu urundai.
International Mango Day:
"International Mango Festival" was celebrated on 22nd July 2025. Mango, also known as the 'King of Fruits,' is celebrated for its juicy pulp and aroma. "Sweet, juicy, and full of sunshine—celebrate the magic of mangoes today!" During which, we explain to the children about the mangoes with some rhymes such as "Mambazhamam Mambazham" and "Mango Mango." Make the children taste the richness of the fruit and enjoy its taste.
Vocational Training Unit
From Manivannan's Desk
VTU Strides For The Month Of July 2025
July month began with Town hall and unit head meeting, followed by consultations, Tarang, celebration of Founder's Day of ESVI Sarada Foundation and Movies.
Town Hall Meeting:
It was a gathering of all the centres of V-Excel across Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra. It was more than just a meeting—it was a deeply moving and well-organized event.
Special thanks to Bala Sir and the entire team for the planning and thoughtful manner of giving us an experience. The seamless flow, warmth amongst the group and uplifting atmosphere created a space that was both consolidating and empowering.
It was truly inspiring to witness the unity, clarity of purpose, and dedication of the V-Excel family.
Unit Head Meeting:
The Unit Heads meeting provided me with deep insights and meaningful reflections on our collective work. It offered a valuable opportunity to clearly assess where my centre stands today.
Through this process, I was able to identify key areas for improvement and growth, which has motivated me to take intentional and purposeful steps forward. The exchange of ideas was both inspiring and encouraging.
Discussing the upcoming Silver Jubilee Celebration filled me with a deep sense of pride and excitement. It is truly an honour to be part of an institution that has been transforming lives for 25 years.
I look forward to contributing wholeheartedly to this milestone celebration. I remain committed to our shared vision and am proud to walk this journey alongside such a dedicated and inspiring team.
Movie – Sitaare Zameen Par at Phoenix Mall and Ability Fest at Sathyam Cinemas:
Sitaare Zammen Par at Phoenix Mall:
Trainees, teachers, and staff went for a screening of Sitaare Zameen Par and thoroughly enjoyed the experience — from the vibrant atmosphere of the theatre and mall to the excitement of travel. The trainees were calm and well-behaved throughout the entire outing, making it a joyful and memorable event for all.
Special thanks to Ms Aparna to get sponsorship for this movie.
Ability Fest at Sathyam Cinemas:
All trainees, teachers, and staff attended a short film screening organized by Ability Fest at Sathyam Cinemas. The event, lasted around two hours, was a delightful experience for everyone.
Teachers and staff also participated in the award function that honoured the Special Artist of Sitaare Zameen Par. The entire program concluded around 6:30 PM, leaving everyone with a sense of pride and joy.
ESVI Sharada Foundation – Founder's Day:
Planning and Discussion on Founder's Day Organization
A detailed planning and discussion took place between Usha Ma'am and myself regarding the organization of the Founder's Day of Late Shri S. Viswanathan, ESVI Sarada Foundation.
This special occasion, began with our regular Prayer by Trainees, Teachers & Staff followed by a chanting of The Karma Yoga of Bhagavat Gita by Shri Krishna, bringing a spiritual essence to the event.
We express our heartfelt gratitude to Shri Srinivasan, Shri Ramani, and Shri Anand for their gracious presence and support in attending the Founder's Day celebration.
The chanting and storytelling related to the Bhagavad Gita generated interest among our trainees, teachers, and staff and the function went well.
Good Company on Saturdays
This month, Mr. Rishi conducted two engaging sessions with the trainees, filled with singing, music, and interaction. He also began helping the trainees practice the Independence Day speech with Rithvik & Ashwin.
Independent Living Program - Sreyes Farm Began on 1st JULY 2025.
Sreyes Farm – the independent living program started. Ashwin, Rithvik, Pranav, and Hari went on two nights and three days trips second week of this month.
Tarang at BVB on 17th July 2025
This month Tarang had a Bharatanatyam performance, theme being “Krishna – The Most Benevolent One”, The dance was performed by Students of Smt. Roja Kannan's Bharatha Natyalaya. The program was excellent, and the trainees watched and listened with great interest and enthusiasm, making it a truly enriching experience for all.
Vocational Activities/Functional Academics/Therapy/Counselling/Movement Dance Therapy
1. Vocational Activities:
• Art & Craft:
Trainee Soushan successfully completed mobile pouch bead patchwork independently. She expressed great happiness about her work and has now begun training in Kantha work.
Tailoring:
We have begun stitching bags in preparation for the upcoming Grundfos sale and Navaratri festival.
Trainee Rohan started training on pedalling in Tailoring unit.
Block Printing:
Regular printing work for SNEH went on and few trainees were independent in printing.
Other trainees were made to print on paper and cloth for practice.
Functional Academics:
• Uma had orientation on the upcoming Independence Day.
• She gave individual sessions for Rithwik, Ashwin and Soushan in using the app to book auto or cab.
Counselling/Therapy/Movement:
• Counsellor Jayadevi had her session with parents, trainees and staff.
• Therapist Vasanth had group and individual sessions on focus and attention, bilateral hand function, standing tolerance and following verbal instructions. He has started making props with the trainees for Independence Day.
Youth Empowerment Services
From Gayathri Suryanarayanan's Desk
Key highlights for the month of July 2025
• V-Excel Townhall 2025
o Participation of YES staff members
o Contribution to the gift hampers
• Movie Experience
• Archery training
• Therapy initiative – Group sessions
• Production
o Sargam Choir
o One Glance Software Services
• Resumption of screen printing
• Interns from Stella Maris College
• Admissions
V-Excel Townhall 2025
Participation
Townhall is one of the much-awaited events for all the members of V-Excel family. This year's Townhall 2025 happened on 04 July and also had a special element. A team from Theatre Nisha headed by its artistic director Mr. Balakrishnan conducted a full day movement workshop. All the staff members from YES participated with great enthusiasm and energy. The team enjoyed the togetherness and interaction with members of other units of V-Excel.
Contribution
Apart from the participation, YES team also contributed to gift hamper making for the workshop facilitators from Theatre Nisha. We prepared 100 goodie bags of handmade chocolates to be distributed to all the participants of Townhall.
Movie experience at Sathyam Cinemas
V-Excel trainees were invited to the film fest conducted by the Ability Foundation. YES trainees and staff members went to Sathyam Cinemas to enjoy 4 select short films and the movies that got selected as part of the 60 minutes to fame contest. This 2.5-hour movie experience was wonderful and the movies that were chosen and screened were beautiful and heartwarming
Archery training
The archery training at YES completed 3 years in July. To take it to the next level the training has been moved from YES campus to an open ground at the Children's Club, Chennai. This will give the trainees an opportunity to improve their pace, accuracy, and precision in shooting because of the advantage of space. This will also give them more practice.
Therapy initiative
Therapist Vasanth visits YES twice a week and has individual or group sessions for all the trainees depending on their needs and requirements. To take it to the next level, a group session was initiated at YES in July 2025. This is a weekly one-hour session for all the trainees. Many specific activities to improve their stamina and general fitness. This training sessions also extends to their activities of daily living, personal hygiene and grooming.
Production
Sargam Choir
YES trainees are part of the inclusive Sargam choir led by Ms. Sudha Raja. Ms. Sudha wanted to design new badges for Sargam and YES team duly designed and made 100 badges for her. YES team also made letterheads and visiting cards for Ms. Sudha. She appreciated the effort and the product.
One Glance Software Services
Ms. Priya of One Glance software Services gave an interesting assignment to YES. She wanted 25 paper hats for a leadership program, and she requested YES team to make them for her. This was a one-of-a-kind order and we completed this order in the stipulated time. The paper hats were colorful and had come out beautifully. This order gave the team an opportunity to learn new skills and in building confidence
Resumption of screen printing
After a short break, screen printing activity resumed at YES with an order of printing for Boomi Mitra bags. 50 small and 50 big bags got the Boomi Mitra logo printed and sent to VTU for final stitching.
Interns from Stella Maris
Five interns from Stella Maris College visited YES for the community service program as part of their course curriculum. They were here for 12 days spread across 3 weeks and had planned activities for each day. They involved small groups of trainees depending on the activity and the trainees thoroughly enjoyed their interaction and company.
Admissions
YES had 3 new admissions in July including Aditya Narayanan who graduated from KLC. He was included to YES team in a beautiful ceremony at KLC.
New addition to the YES team
Ms. Bhavani, a special educator, joined YES team as a skill trainer for Arts and Crafts vocation.