The CARD – Light to Life Project, Ameri was established on 23rd October 2017. It is a community-based initiative in Ameri Village, Thakhatur, Bilaspur District, Chhattisgarh. Serving 150 children (110 girls and 40 boys) from predominantly Scheduled Caste families, along with their parents and the wider community, the program addresses educational, nutritional, health, and social needs. With the support of 8 dedicated staff, children benefit from tuition classes, computer training, nutritious meals, health check-ups, and hygiene awareness programs. Co-curricular activities such as art, sports, and exposure visits, alongside Child Parliament initiatives, foster leadership, confidence, and creativity. At the community level, parents’ meetings, awareness programs, skill training, and environmental drives strengthen social responsibility and empowerment.
The year 2024–25 marked significant achievements, including improved academic performance, enhanced cleanliness and discipline, stronger parent participation, and successful skill development outcomes, such as 12 parents certified in tailoring and 37 women completing beautician training, with one already employed. Despite challenges like parental unavailability, child labor, poverty, and superstition, the project continues to thrive through child-centered approaches, community engagement, and regular monitoring. CARD – Light to Life Ameri has become a beacon of hope for Bilaspur’s outskirts, positively impacting literacy, confidence, hygiene, and social awareness. Moving forward, the project aims to expand skill development programs, build stronger partnerships, and ensure long-term sustainable transformation within the community.