In The Pursuit of Literacy

I am running for India ...

I am running for running ..

Yes, I have run two half marathons in the past (SF 2007 and Silicon Valley 2008). But, this time it is different. This time, I am motivated by my strong belief that education is a fundamental right. Education is a ticket for a better life. I believe in life, liberty, literacy and the pursuit of happiness - the third in this list taken for granted by most of us.

Just in case you need data:

1. About 1/6th of the world can't read. That's more than a billion people.
2. More than 350 million in India can't read. That's well over the population of the United States.

Today, Asha for Education has more than 1000 active volunteers across 70 different chapters worldwide. Since its inception, Asha has supported 400+ different projects in many states of India. In terms of project funding, over 8 million dollars was disbursed to these projects and has impacted more than 500,000 children. You can find more information about the projects Asha-Silicon valley supports by going here.

I am targeting to raise $2100 and I will be truly happy if I could raise more. Team Asha pledges to keep operational costs at a maximum of 3%, and strive in the process that 100% of your contribution will go towards the cause. Charity navigator, and independent organization that rates charities has given Asha for Education a 4 star rating, the highest.

I seek your help in accomplishing this noble cause and passing the finish line with a huge smile.

Regards,
-Ganesh

Suggested contributions:

1. $26.2 - $2 per mile
2. $52.4 - $4 per mile
3. $104.8 - $ 8 per mile
4. $xxx - I want to spread more happiness !! :-)

Ways to contribute:

1. Credit card: Please clock on this runnersnet page: here
2. Cash/Check: Contact me at gventataraman AT NOT com (just to go past the spam bots :-), it's my gmail address)

Comeback after a loooong time

I have been absent from the blogging community for quite some time. Lots of things happened in the middle - in the past 2.5 years. Will start my ramblings soon