A New Zealand initiative bringing HOPE to India
Background
ASHA is a non-profit organisation established to work among vulnerable, downtrodden and outcast communities situated in East India.
Established in Hawke's Bay New Zealand in 2004, ASHA has been toiling to put a smile on the face of each individual living in the area of operation. We chose the name ASHA because it means HOPE in the local dialect where we work.
We focus on the holistic development of all individuals especially the underprivileged and marginalised. ASHA is goal orientated to achieve its aim of creating sustainable and lasting changes in each community.
The word ASHA in the local dialect means HOPE.
Our Aims & Objectives
To change the lives of children through welfare and education
To protect the rights of children
To provide relief assistance and rehabilitation in emergency situations
To provide clean safe water in the communities where we work
To empower minorities through income generation and self-reliance
To promote equality and equal opportunity in all areas
To network with other groups committed to the empowerment of the poor
To work towards a clean environment by encouraging all to walk gently on our planet
Governance
ASHA’s work in India is directed by our staff in India and governed by joint Boards, one in New Zealand and one in India. Joint board meetings are conducted each time New Zealand Board members travel to India. There is continuous communication between the joint boards, which includes project updates, and monthly financial accounts. Both boards produce annual reports.
ASHA NEW ZEALAND BOARD
Chairperson: Stu Hastings
Secretary: Rachel Furniss
Treasurer: Andrew McIvor
Board Members: Marline Couper, Ali McMinn,
Mark Jackson
Our New Zealand Board members contribute their services free of charge. They regularly travel to India at their own expense to monitor progress, further the vision, interview staff and children and to ensure accountability.
ASHA INDIA BOARD
Our Indian Board members contribute their services free of charge. They have wide experience in relief and development work. They have extensive knowledge of national and local issues, particularly related to the areas in which we work. They have hands on involvement in the running of our Centres and Projects.
Funding
Funding is raised by the New Zealand Board which has its Head Office in Havelock North.
As our New Zealand Board members are volunteers, there are no administration costs, and this enables us to send all the funds raised in New Zealand to India to finance ASHA’s projects and centres.
Funding for the running of our Centres & Hostel includes using the child sponsorship model. All other funding for the projects and centres is raised by way of donations.
“Love cannot remain by itself – it has no meaning. Love has to be put into action, and that action is service.” Mother Teresa
PO Box 8587
Havelock North
New Zealand 4157
Email. office@asha.org.nz
Bank Account: 03-0642-0737741-26