The JDC-GPM Internship Program is an
exciting new four-month long volunteer opportunity for young Jewish Indian
professionals and undergraduate students to work with the children of the Mumbai
slums. In this program participants make a meaningful difference and a positive
impact on the lives of youth living in the Kalwa slum, North Mumbai, through an
organized program of social and learning experiences. The brainchild of JDC
Country Director for India, Mandie Winston, this program is the first
initiative that brings together young Indian Jews and Jewish volunteers from
around the world to collaborate on providing literacy and nutrition in the
Mumbai slums.
The Jews of Mumbai, a
small but increasingly vibrant and active community of approximately 5000 people,
have a strong Jewish culture and identity thanks in part to the vigorous efforts
of community leaders, the local JDC and JCC. Gabriel Project Mumbai (GPM) is a collaborative
Jewish initiative that provides nutrition and literacy to the children in the slums
of Mumbai.
“As a Jewish initiative
we are excited that the JDC India shares our vision and has created a program
where local Jewish Indian young professionals come together to volunteer with
children living in the slums”, said GPM founding director Jacob Sztokman. “This
is a fantastic opportunity for participants to take ownership of a great charitable
enterprise deep in the slums of Mumbai.”
The JDC-GPM Internship
Program with the support of REAP, GPM’s grass root partner in the slums of
Mumbai, offers the children living in the slums an opportunity to socialize
together in a fun, empowered and enjoyable informal educational setting.
“Participation in the
Gabriel Project Mumbai encourages the local community members to reach out
beyond their Jewish circle and see the difference they can make to the under-privileged
sections of society at large in the true spirit and essence of Tikkun Olam.”
Elijah Jacob, Director of JDC India added.
GPM’s International
Jewish volunteers also work side by side with their Indian Jewish counterparts
in developing an incredible experience for the children living in the slums.
“The JDC-GPM Internship Program has two implications: it gives the youth the
opportunity to give back to society while
identifying with the concept of Tikun Olam and it will also help them
grow into responsible individuals who will continue to care for service in more
ways", said Salome Abraham Program Coordinator for Young Adults, Service
and Leadership Initiatives, JDC India.
“The JDC-GPM Internship
Program is a way for the young Jewish Indian adults to better understand our
neighbors, help children in need while exploring the Jewish values of gemilut
chasadim (acts of kindness), tzedakah (charity) and social justice,”
added Sigalith Isaac, GPM Program Coordinator. “As the participants are starting
their careers and families, social justice, charity and helping others will be
a strong foundation to the lives they are building.”
