Asha Austin

I run so they can READ

So, here’s the deal. I’ve decided to run 13 half marathons in the Dec ’22 to Dec ’23 window.
Yes, you read that right. 13. The Fibonacci number 13 is also the sixth prime number, a twin prime with 11, as well as a cousin prime with 17 ….. for those of you who seek a little more mathematical orgasm like me.

Now, I know what you’re thinking – “Dec2Dec … 13 half marathons ? One every month ? Is this person insane?”
And the answer is yes, a little bit. But it’s all for a good cause, I promise.
Why, you might ask? Well, I’ll tell you.

It’s all in support of Asha for Education, an amazing organization that works to provide education and support to underprivileged children in India. These kids face challenges that most of us can’t even imagine, and yet they remain determined to learn and grow and create a better life for themselves and their communities. And that’s something I want to support in any way I can.

And besides, I’m going to need all the support I can get. Running 13.1 miles is no joke, folks. I’m going to be a sweaty, exhausted mess by the end of each race. But hey, at least it’ll make for some good entertainment, right?

All jokes aside, though, this is a cause that’s really close to my heart. While working as a project steward for Samarth (a school in rural Orissa working for the welfare of specially abled kids) I’ve seen firsthand the incredible impact that education can have on a child’s life, and I believe that every child deserves the chance to learn and grow and reach their full potential.

So, if you’re able to, I’d love for you to support me in this crazy endeavour by donating to Asha for Education. Every dollar makes a difference, and together we can help give these kids the tools they need to create a better future for themselves and their communities.

And who knows, maybe I’ll even survive all 13 races. Either way, I promise to keep you all updated on my progress (and my blisters). There will be some pretty hilarious photos of me struggling through these half marathons to make it worth your while. Let’s do this!

Why Asha for Education?

Asha for Education is a low-overhead, 100% volunteer-driven 501c(3) organization that works on education in India with the belief that education is a critical requisite for socio-economic change. It has been rated a top charity on Charity Navigator for 7 consecutive years for being a low-overhead, transparent, and accountable organization. Importantly, it means your donation has a big impact on children, teachers, and schools who need our help, support and motivation.

My GOAL

My goal is to raise $1300. Funds raised will go towards education, food, therapy and medical expenses (with certain project partners) for underprivileged children supported by Asha Austin.

Asha Austin currently supports eight projects and a fellowship, focusing on special needs education, alternate education, girls education, vocational training, in rural and urban areas in India. The support is to provide salaries for teachers, coordinators and therapists; cover costs of teaching and learning material. Navjyoti’s Kishori Kendra (UP) and Sankalp-Ek-Prayas’ Garima (Chattisgarh) work with adolescent girls to impart supplemental education, health and hygiene counseling, and/or vocational training. Antyodoy Anath Ashram (West Bengal) and Reward Trust (Tamil Nadu) provide alternate education in rural parts of India. Sangamam (UP) is a computer-based intervention program amongst government schools. Khushboo Welfare Society (Gurgaon) and GDOHWA-Samarth (Chatrapur), work with children of mental and multiple disabilities. Siddamma, an Asha Fellow, works on freeing bonded Irula laborers, education of their children, and empowering communities.

What can you DO ?

Please consider donating through my fundraiser. Your contribution is tax-deductible (Tax ID: 77-0459884, Asha for Education) and the money raised is extremely invaluable in supporting Asha for Education, Asha Austin chapter and Team Asha’s mission.

Support a child with your gift of education today. Enrich a life forever!

How to DONATE?

I request that you make your tax-deductible donation on this secure page by clicking on the “DONATE NOW” button on the top-right, prior to February 20, 2023.

Company Matching

The majority of Companies match employee donations. This is a great way to double the impact of your donation.

• Search “Asha for Education” in your Company’s Giving portal
• Please ensure address & EIN (Tax-ID) are :
  • Address : PO Box 888080, Los Angeles, CA 90088-8080
  • EIN: 77-0459884
• Provide details about your donation on the Giving portal.
  • Note some companies want employees to donate through their Giving portal. Please check this before making the donation on this page.
• Please include “Saurabh Dixit, Austin Chapter” in the Description section.
• Please email me or austin.treasurer@ashanet.org so we may know to expect a donation match.

Please remember that whatever you can donate is valuable. Helen Keller once said “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much”. And I request you to take this journey with me towards my goal.

Thank you.