In a heartwarming initiative, the 'Nam Dhesam' Foundation in Chennai is making a significant impact in the lives of differently-abled individuals, particularly the visually impaired. Led by social worker S Chandrasekar, this foundation aims to create sustainable livelihood opportunities and empower those with disabilities.

Since its establishment in 2013, the 'Nam Dhesam' Foundation has been identifying visually impaired individuals from underprivileged backgrounds and providing them with support. Their core mantra, "Your Kindness is Blessed Forever," serves as the guiding principle behind their efforts.

During the COVID-19 lockdown, the foundation extended its support to many differently-abled individuals. However, post-pandemic, their focus shifted towards enabling the visually impaired to lead independent lives through sustainable livelihoods. Rather than doing things for them, the foundation believes in teaching individuals skills that will enable them to support themselves.

Under Chandrasekar's guidance, the foundation provides a small capital investment of Rs 2,000 or Rs 3,000 to individuals to purchase essential items like burfi (peanut sweet), kerchiefs, headsets, and pens. This investment has proven to be transformative, doubling the income of beneficiaries within days. The initiative has also ventured into wire chair making, providing additional support whenever necessary.

To date, the 'Nam Dhesam' Foundation has nurtured around 600 visually impaired entrepreneurs, changing their lives for the better. Through partnerships with corporations and effective utilization of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds, Chandrasekar aims to eradicate poverty through education and awareness.

The inspiring stories of beneficiaries like S Ruban and S Ramesh highlight the positive impact of the foundation's work. Ruban's earnings selling burfi have increased significantly, while Ramesh and a group of visually impaired individuals have found success in crafting wire chairs.