DCCW EC Members Commemorate International Women’s Day with Visit to Riya Foundation
DCCW EC Members Commemorate International Women’s Day with Visit to Riya Foundation
Mangaluru: In observance of International Women’s Day, the Executive Committee members of the Diocesan Council of Catholic Women (DCCW) undertook a visit to the Riya Foundation, a distinguished organization dedicated to providing lifelong care and opportunities for adults with intellectual disabilities. The visit, held at the Riya Foundation’s Kotimura facility, served as a poignant reminder of the critical role such organizations play in supporting vulnerable populations within the community.
Ashley Fernandes, Founder of Riya Foundation, warmly welcomed the DCCW delegation and provided a comprehensive overview of the foundation’s mission and activities. Mr. Fernandes recounted the genesis of the organization, stating, “My journey started in the year 2010. What began as a simple act of volunteering blossomed into a life-changing mission driven by compassion and a desire to fill a critical gap in care for adults with intellectual disabilities.” He traced the foundation’s origins back to his time in the corporate sector at America Online (AOL), where an encounter with a colleague’s daughter with autism sparked a profound interest in understanding intellectual disabilities.
Mr. Fernandes elaborated on the critical need for specialized care for adults with intellectual disabilities, noting that while NGOs and other organizations often provide support for children, these services typically cease after the age of 18. “Government assistance ceased, and aging parents struggled to manage the evolving needs of their adult children, often leading to isolation and a lack of meaningful engagement,” he explained. He emphasized the foundation’s commitment to providing innovative and skill-based vocational training, exemplified by their pioneering computer training program in partnership with a Bangalore-based organization and telecom companies. This initiative allows individuals with intellectual disabilities to acquire valuable skills and earn income, fostering a sense of purpose and independence.
Riya Foundation currently provides care for approximately 37 residents over the age of 18, exceeding its comfortable capacity of 25 due to the pressing need for placement, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The residents come from diverse backgrounds, including those with aging parents, single parents unable to cope, siblings unable to provide adequate care, and individuals abandoned and referred by government agencies. Supported by a dedicated staff of 16, Riya Foundation operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, offering a lifetime home characterized by a nurturing environment and a strong sense of community.
A DCCW member and a well-wisher from Dubai extended financial assistance to the Riya Foundation in honor of International Women’s Day, further underscoring their commitment to supporting organizations that empower and uplift vulnerable populations. Following the donation, the members engaged directly with the residents, spending valuable time in conversation and shared activities. The visit served as a powerful testament to the importance of compassion, inclusion, and unwavering support for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
