Building Inclusive Communities with Caritas India and Roop Foundation

In an era where corporate social responsibility (CSR) is becoming a fundamental aspect of business ethos, partnerships between corporates and NGOs are proving to be powerful catalysts for societal change. One such impactful collaboration is between Caritas India and the Roop V K Jain Foundation, which is bringing hope and opportunities to persons with disabilities (PwDs) in Haryana.

Caritas India, known for its humanitarian aid and community development, has joined forces with the Roop V K Jain Foundation, the CSR arm of Roop Automative. Together, they are making a significant difference in 13 villages in Nuh, Haryana. This collaborative project focuses on improving the living conditions of the most marginalized and underserved communities, particularly PwDs. With a commitment to inclusivity, the initiative aims to directly benefit 500 PwDs by connecting them with social security schemes, enhancing accessibility, facilitating early identification of disabilities, promoting school enrollment, and forming self-help groups to boost income generation.

Recognizing the importance of understanding and inclusion, Caritas India recently conducted a sensitization program for 60 staff members of Roop Automative at their manufacturing plant in Manesar, Gurgaon. The training, held on 23rd July 2024 during Disability Pride Month, emphasized the significance of no discrimination and equal access to opportunities for PwDs. Participants received a detailed understanding of various types of disabilities, the barriers faced by PwDs, and proper disability etiquette. This program underscores the importance of creating an inclusive work environment, a value that Roop V K Jain Foundation takes seriously, as evidenced by their employment of 17 hearing-impaired individuals in their manufacturing plant.

The Roop V K Jain Foundation has been constructively contributing to society since its inception as the CSR arm of Roop Automative. Initially, the foundation started working in the villages of Haryana, focusing on linking government schools with aspirant children. Through its CSR initiatives, Roop has supported children by providing essential resources such as books and winter uniforms. The foundation’s broader commitment extends to improving education, community development, and environmental sustainability.

Established in 2018 to streamline and consolidate its efforts, the Roop V K Jain Foundation has since partnered with numerous NGOs to enhance living conditions, improve school infrastructure, and empower women towards self-sustainability. Their work reflects a deep-rooted commitment to creating lasting, positive impacts in the communities they serve.

The collaboration between Caritas India and the Roop V K Jain Foundation is a testament to the power of inclusive CSR initiatives. By addressing the needs of PwDs and fostering an inclusive environment, they are not only improving individual lives but also setting a standard for other organizations to follow. This partnership highlights that when businesses and NGOs join forces with a shared vision, they can drive substantial societal change.

The success of the Caritas India and Roop V K Jain Foundation partnership serves as an inspiration and a call to action for other corporates and NGOs. It demonstrates that CSR, when genuinely prioritized, can create meaningful and lasting change. Organizations are encouraged to emulate this model of inclusive CSR, ensuring that no segment of society is left behind.