Nominations open for our 2024 Special Mom Award!
In our work with children with intellectual disabilities (ID), we are constantly reminded of the divine role of parents in their upbringing and development . A mother’s role is especially priceless.
We have commenced our search for 10 deserving mothers of children with ID. They will receive a cash prize of INR 15000/- each, with special recognition and access to a lifetime of free services from Sri Arunodayam – yet unmatched in the NGO sector!
More details on how we plan to honor them on Mother’s Day (May 12, 2024) will be updated soon. In the meanwhile, here’s a recap of our 2022|23 Special Mom Award ceremony.
Watch this space for more!
Who qualifies
- Mothers of children with intellectual disabilities (ID)
Qualification criteria
- The child must be at least 10 years’ old and above.
- Mothers with children in Day Care centers may apply
- Mothers from rural areas can apply through a nominator who can fill in the Nomination Form on their behalf.
- Entry is not open to those who put their children in residential homes. The child must be in the direct care of the mother/family.
How to apply
- If you meet the qualification criteria, submit your nomination to us directly online, or download and submit the same.
- The form must be accompanied by a copy of the following documents:
- Your child’s Birth Certificate
- Your child’s National Identity Card
- Your Ration Card, Voters ID Card, Aadhar Card (Provide at least 2 of these)
- Marriage Certificate or a Letter from your village officer (if available)
- Day Care Center letter (if appropriate)
- Pictures of you and your child
Please do not submit incomplete forms as they will not be considered. For those filing the nomination on behalf of the mother, please ensure that you have all the necessary documents in place before applying.
Changing mindsets
We can all play a part in changing society for the better! Let’s put a stop to the judgement and discrimination against families of intellectually disabled children in our communities. Begin by offering help. For example: try befriending and reaching out to such families in your community and help them find organizations like Sri Arunodayam who can help them. There’s no telling how our own lives can be enriched with a sense of purpose as we become more compassionate toward others.
Money isn’t always the answer. Most often these families just need a reliable and affirming support system to make it through difficult times. If we each do our bit, we can make society more inclusive!
Program Timelines
Nominations for 2024 open via our website.
March 1, 2024 :
Nominations close
- Selection and verification of 10 finalists.
- A Selection Committee reviews all applications and shortlists the candidates.
- A Verification Authority will verify and authenticate the finalists.
The finalists will be announced via our website.
To Be Decided:
The Special Mom Award Ceremony (Venue will be announced closer to the date)
Finalists will receive:
- Special recognition and a Certificate of Excellence in Parenting
- A cash award of INR 15,000 each
- A Special Lifetime Pass to free support services from Sri Arunodayam Charitable Trust