DOWNTOWNPLUS: AMar Parekh has introduced an innovative concept called ‘education adoption’:Aug 01,08 | Good Samaritan

This saying is true in the case of Amar Parekh, a factory-owner in Sewri, who in a state of revelation, got into an area that he interestingly calls - education adoption.

This 37-year-old looks after the education of several under privileged children coming from the slums and orphanages from Sewri.

“It was like God was directing me to do this for these children. It was a revelation; I can’t explain in words, but I discovered my compassion to help these children,” says Parekh.

Coming from an affluent background, money was never an issue for Parekh. “We were more concerned about our money going in the right hands,” says Parekh. For this reason, he saw the necessity to get involved with the children at a personal level. “These children come from a very troubled past; many of them have faced child abuse and rape. I try to connect with them and understand their needs and at the same time, explain the importance of education,” says Parekh, humbly.

Although he started his social contribution only three years back, Parekh has a ‘class full’ of 30 students that he sponsors. “I would like to believe that I give these children something more than my money,” smiles Parekh who attends all the parent meets and other important days celebrated in the various schools. He adds, “Giving the money is the easy part. These children need your love and care more than the money and I try to give them that,” smiles this Wadala resident.

It’s not just about teaching: for Parekh, it’s more of a personal satisfaction. “When you speak to these children, one learns the importance of forgiveness. After the suffering they have been through, these children yet have the heart of an angel. Honestly speaking, I feel indebted to these children for the valuable lessons they teach me everyday. The money I spend then becomes more of an investment,” chortles Parekh who ‘invests’ a total of Rs 10,000 per month.

Parekh’s “children” — aged between 6-12 years — are currently studying in various municipal schools in Sewri. “Two of my children are stepping into college and I will soon employ them in my factory into the accounting or marketing department,” he says proudly, asserting his aim to eradicate illiteracy from Mumbai over the next decade.

Besides the 30 children Parekh looks after, he has two children of his own. “My family is extremely supportive of my work for these children and give me the liberty to devote my time and energy to them,” reveals Parekh.