Eyesight is the most dominant of our senses and plays a critical role in every facet and stage of our lives. However, the loss of eyesight casts a profound shadow, imposing restrictions on the acquisition of vital skills, hindering daily activities, and denying access to education, skill development, and job placements. This deprivation often leads to social exclusion, resulting in diminished self-esteem and confidence, coupled with the pervasive presence of depression and anxiety in individuals grappling with blindness, exacerbated by the absence of proper rehabilitation and opportunities for learning and growth.

Against this backdrop, the compelling journey of 31-year-old Amar Wadode unfolds as a testament to the transformative impact of Caritas India Community Based Rehabilitation (CI CBR), illuminating the path of resilience and triumph over the challenges of total blindness. Born with low eyesight in a small village, Amar’s initial struggle was intensified due to the absence of specific treatment.

In 2007, the CI CBR program entered Sausar block, Chhindwara district of Madhya Pradesh marking a turning point in Amar’s life at the age of 14. Enrolled in the village school, Amar showcased academic prowess despite the hurdles. His educational journey, from primary school in 2001 to completing a master’s degree in social work from IGNOU in 2018, paints a vivid picture of CI CBR’s unwavering commitment to promoting education for those with disabilities.

The formation of a village self-help group, where Amar actively engaged in discussions, paved the way for positive change. CI CBR’s support empowered him to eloquently raise issues of entitlements during dialogue meetings with panchayat officials, leading to tangible improvements for the community – from disability certificates to job placements and essential infrastructure.

Amar’s growth to become the Treasurer of the block-level Organization and his subsequent contributions to regional and national forums underscore CI CBR’s emphasis on fostering leadership skills. Beyond academia, Amar’s dedicated engagement continued as he worked as a teacher and actively promoted the cause of persons with disabilities.

Encouraged by CI CBR, Amar underwent a three-month Computer Training Course in Bengaluru, enhancing his skills for formal employment. Today, as a Computer Instructor at Deepstambh Foundation in Pune, Amar is not just an employee but a mentor, nurturing the growth of children with disabilities in technology, and fostering both personal and academic development.

Amar’s involvement in community committees, such as Gram Vikas Samiti and Gram Tadarth Samiti, as well as his selection for the Divisional Railway Users Consultative Committee in 2021, exemplifies the far-reaching impact of CI CBR. Caritas India CBR’s initiatives, reaching out to 8732 individuals with blindness and low vision, encompass a holistic approach – promoting social inclusion, education, skill development, job placement, and leadership skills.

In this tale of triumph, CI CBR emerges as a catalyst for change, empowering Amar to not only overcome personal challenges but also contribute meaningfully to the well-being of his community and beyond. The humanistic touch of this success story reflects the transformative power of compassion and support provided by CI CBR.