A Landmark Achievement: Our Director Honored with the Prestigious Changemaker Award by Maharashtra Ladies Association!

We are brimming with immense pride and joy at the Shivaji Shelar Memorial Foundation as we announce a monumental achievement: our esteemed Director has been conferred with the highly coveted Changemaker Award by the distinguished Maharashtra Ladies Association. This significant recognition took place on August 17th at the iconic Acharya Atre Rang Mandir in Chinchwad, amidst a gathering of eminent personalities, social leaders, and dedicated community members. This award is not just an individual honor; it's a powerful validation of our Foundation's collective efforts and unwavering commitment to driving social change and community development across Maharashtra.

The Changemaker Award: Recognizing Vision and Impact

The Changemaker Award is a prestigious accolade bestowed by the Maharashtra Ladies Association, an organization renowned for its dedication to empowering women and fostering social welfare across the state. This award specifically recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional vision, relentless dedication, and made a tangible, positive social impact in their respective fields. It celebrates those who aren't just dreamers, but active catalysts of transformation, inspiring others to contribute to a better society. For the Maharashtra Ladies Association to choose our Director for this honor underscores the profound and far-reaching influence of their leadership and the initiatives of the Shivaji Shelar Memorial Foundation.

Changemaker Award

Our Director: A Beacon of Compassion and Leadership

The Changemaker Award is a fitting tribute to our Director's unwavering dedication and visionary leadership. For years, our Director has been at the forefront of the Shivaji Shelar Memorial Foundation's most impactful initiatives, working tirelessly to uplift underprivileged communities and address critical societal needs. Their journey has been marked by a deep sense of compassion, a strategic approach to community development, and an unyielding belief in the power of collective action.

Under their guidance, the Foundation has expanded its reach and deepened its impact across several key areas:

Education & Literacy: From establishing early childhood learning centers like LEAD UP INTERNATIONAL PRESCHOOL in Talegaon Dabhade to implementing the unique "One Child – One Plant" environmental education initiative, our Director has championed quality education as the bedrock of progress. They have spearheaded programs providing scholarships, digital literacy, and vocational training to empower youth and adults, fostering lifelong learning and enhancing employability.

Healthcare Programs: Their leadership has ensured that essential healthcare services reach remote and underserved populations through health camps, awareness programs, and access to medical aid, demonstrating a profound commitment to public well-being.

Women Empowerment: Driving initiatives focused on women empowerment, our Director has helped establish programs promoting skill development, financial independence, and gender equality, creating avenues for women to thrive and lead.

Environmental Protection: Beyond the signature Van Mahotsav events, their vision has instilled a culture of environmental responsibility within the Foundation and the communities we serve, promoting sustainable practices for a greener future.

This award specifically acknowledges the comprehensive and impactful nature of their work, recognizing them as a true NGO leader who embodies the spirit of selflessness and service. Their leadership is not just about managing projects; it’s about inspiring social change through empathy, innovation, and perseverance.

The Grand Ceremony at Acharya Atre Rang Mandir, Chinchwad

The award ceremony itself was a truly memorable event, held at the prestigious Acharya Atre Rang Mandir in Chinchwad, a venue known for hosting significant cultural and community gatherings. The atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm and respect as leaders from various sectors gathered to celebrate contributions to society.

The event commenced with an insightful address by representatives of the Maharashtra Ladies Association, who highlighted the importance of changemakers in today's dynamic world. They eloquently spoke about the rigorous selection process for the award, emphasizing the genuine and transformative impact demonstrated by the recipients.

As our Director's name was announced, the auditorium erupted in applause, a testament to the widespread acknowledgment of their contributions. The award was presented by a distinguished personality from the association, followed by a heartfelt acceptance speech from our Director. In their speech, our Director humbly acknowledged the award, dedicating it to the tireless efforts of the entire Shivaji Shelar Memorial Foundation team, our dedicated volunteers, and the resilient communities we serve. They reiterated the Foundation's commitment to continue working passionately towards its mission, emphasizing the collective responsibility we all share in building a more equitable and sustainable future. The inspiring words resonated deeply with everyone present, reinforcing the core values of philanthropy and social welfare.

Impact and Inspiration: A Catalyst for Future Endeavors

Receiving the Changemaker Award is a significant milestone for both our Director and the entire Shivaji Shelar Memorial Foundation. This recognition does more than just honor an individual; it:

Elevates Visibility: It brings much-needed attention to the crucial work of the Shivaji Shelar Memorial Foundation, increasing our visibility among potential donors, volunteers, and community partners. This heightened awareness is vital for expanding our reach and impact.

Boosts Morale: It serves as a powerful morale booster for every member of our team and our vast network of volunteers. Knowing that their hard work is acknowledged at such a high level fuels their passion and dedication.

Inspires Action: The story of this award will undoubtedly inspire more individuals and organizations to step forward and contribute to social change. It showcases that even seemingly small efforts, when combined with consistent dedication, can lead to monumental impact.

Reinforces Trust: Such prestigious recognition from the Maharashtra Ladies Association strengthens public trust in our Foundation, assuring stakeholders of our credibility, transparency, and effective utilization of resources.

Sets a Benchmark: This award sets a higher benchmark for our future endeavors. It motivates us to innovate further, reach more beneficiaries, and tackle new challenges in community development.

This moment of recognition is not an end, but a renewed beginning for us at the Shivaji Shelar Memorial Foundation. It reaffirms our resolve to continue working towards a society where every individual has the opportunity to thrive, where education is universal, healthcare is accessible, and the environment is protected for future generations.

Join Us in Our Mission!

The Changemaker Award highlights the incredible potential when passionate individuals and supportive communities come together for a common cause. The Shivaji Shelar Memorial Foundation is driven by the belief that every contribution, no matter how small, can create a ripple effect of positive change.

We invite you to be a part of this transformative journey. Your support is instrumental in enabling us to expand our education initiatives, enhance our healthcare programs, strengthen our women empowerment efforts, and deepen our environmental protection projects.

Donate: Your financial contributions empower us to sustain and expand our vital programs. Visit our Donation Page to make a secure contribution and potentially avail Income Tax benefits under Section 80C (for Indian donors).

Volunteer: Lend your time, skills, and passion to our various projects. Your energy can make a direct difference in the lives of many.

Partner: Explore collaboration opportunities if your organization shares our commitment to social welfare and sustainable development.

A Day of Patriotism, Joy, and Togetherness: Independence Day 2025 Celebration at Lead Up International Pre-School

Every year, the 15th of August marks a sacred day in the heart of every Indian. It is the day when our nation broke free from colonial chains and stepped into the light of freedom. For us, it is not just a date in history—it is a reminder of the sacrifices, dreams, and resilience that built the India we cherish today. This year, Independence Day 2025 was celebrated with grandeur, innocence, and immense enthusiasm at Lead Up International Pre-School, Talegaon Dabhade, a project of the Shivaji Shelar Memorial Foundation.

What made this celebration unique was the involvement of not just the preschool children but also 50 other children from the community and about 40 parents, who came together to honour the nation’s spirit. The event, attended by over 120 participants, was a wonderful blend of patriotism, early childhood learning, and community bonding.

Setting the Stage for a Memorable Day

As the morning sun rose on 15th August, the premises of Lead Up International Pre-School buzzed with excitement. Teachers, staff, and volunteers had decorated the school with tricolour balloons, paper crafts, and hand-made posters created by the children. The walls carried slogans such as “Freedom is our right, but unity is our strength” and “Little hands, big dreams for India.”

The school courtyard, where the main celebration took place, was beautifully arranged with neat seating for parents and guests. A small stage with a backdrop featuring the Indian flag and portraits of national leaders created a perfect patriotic atmosphere.

Children arrived in bright costumes—some dressed as freedom fighters like Mahatma Gandhi, Rani Lakshmibai, Bhagat Singh, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, while others came in the traditional attire of Krishna, Radha, and Bharat Mata. Parents too came in festive spirits, many dressed in white or in the colours of the tricolour.

The Flag Hoisting Ceremony

The celebration began with the hoisting of the national flag by the directors of the foundation, Mrs. Lipika Avinash Shelar and Mrs. Minakshi Shivaji Shelar, accompanied by teachers and staff. As the Tiranga unfurled gracefully, everyone stood in silence to sing the National Anthem. The innocence of preschoolers singing “Jana Gana Mana” with their tiny voices created a moment that touched every heart present.

For many children, it was their very first Independence Day celebration, and their eyes sparkled with curiosity as they saluted the flag.

Welcome Address and Setting the Tone

After the anthem, a warm welcome was extended to parents and guests. The teachers explained the significance of Independence Day in simple words for the little ones. “Freedom is when we can live happily, go to school, play, and speak without fear. But this freedom was not free—many people gave their lives for it,” one teacher narrated, capturing the attention of both children and parents.

Patriotic Performances by Children

The heart of the celebration was the performances by children. Each act was carefully designed to be age-appropriate, engaging, and filled with patriotic spirit.

Action Songs & Rhymes: The tiny tots of Play Group and Nursery sang simple rhymes like “Nanha Munna Rahi Hoon” and performed hand gestures, making everyone smile. Their innocent attempts at synchronizing steps were cheered loudly by parents.

Dance Performances: Children from Jr. KG and Sr. KG presented vibrant group dances on patriotic songs. Their colourful costumes and coordinated movements filled the stage with energy.

“I Love My India” Showcase: Each child came forward and spoke one line about India—“India is my country,” “Our flag has three colours,” “I love my school, I love my India.” This segment, though brief, showed how little ones could express pride in their own words.

The highlight was a mini parade where children dressed as freedom fighters walked across the stage. Parents were thrilled to see their little ones dressed as historical figures, holding placards of slogans like “Inquilab Zindabad” and “Jai Hind.”

Storytelling and Value Talk

To ensure that the message of Independence Day was meaningful, the teachers narrated a short story about bravery and truth. The tale of a young child who stood up for honesty in a small village was linked to the idea of courage shown by freedom fighters.

This storytelling session ensured that children not only performed but also understood values like bravery, teamwork, and truthfulness. Parents later expressed how important such sessions are in today’s times, when values need to be nurtured at an early age.

Creative Expressions – Art and Craft Exhibition

Throughout the week leading up to Independence Day, children had been busy making tricolour badges, flags, handprint art, and paper flowers. These artworks were displayed during the event, transforming the school into a gallery of patriotism.

For the children, pointing at their creations and proudly telling their parents, “I made this!” was an achievement in itself. It not only boosted their creativity but also gave them a sense of contribution to the big day.

Parents and Community Participation

One of the most remarkable aspects of the celebration was the active involvement of parents and community children. About 40 parents attended the event and participated in a quick interactive quiz on national symbols. Questions like “What is the national animal of India?” and “How many spokes are in the Ashoka Chakra?” created a fun learning moment for all.

Parents also joined in singing patriotic songs with the children, turning the atmosphere into one of togetherness and unity. The presence of 50 community children further extended the school’s vision of building bonds beyond classrooms and ensuring that cultural values reach a wider audience.

Behind the Scenes: The Role of Teachers and Staff

While the children were the stars of the event, the teachers and staff of Lead Up International Pre-School were the real backbone. From weeks of rehearsals, costume preparations, stage décor, to ensuring safety and discipline—every detail was meticulously handled.

The non-teaching staff too played an important role in managing seating, refreshments, and maintaining cleanliness. The seamless execution of the programme was a testimony to the dedication of the entire school team.

Learning Outcomes from the Celebration

For preschool children, celebrations are not just about entertainment—they are opportunities for holistic learning. The Independence Day 2025 celebration helped children in:

Building Confidence: Performing on stage and speaking in front of an audience.

Language Development: Reciting rhymes, singing songs, and repeating patriotic slogans.

Cognitive Growth: Recognizing tricolour, national symbols, and connecting with their meaning.

Social Skills: Teamwork, sharing stage space, and respecting peers.

Emotional Development: Feeling pride, joy, and belongingness to the nation.

Parents also acknowledged how such celebrations enhance their children’s personalities at such a young age.

Voices from the Event

Some memorable reflections included:

“It’s overwhelming to see such small children performing with so much confidence. My child is only 3, and today she said ‘Jai Hind’ loudly on stage. That’s a proud moment for us as parents.” – A parent participant.

“We wanted this day to be joyful, educational, and patriotic. The children might not fully understand freedom yet, but they are learning values like unity, love, and respect for the nation. That is our goal.” – A teacher from the school.

“Our foundation believes in nurturing not just education but also culture and values. Seeing parents, community, and children together today is a true reflection of India’s unity in diversity.” – Mrs. Lipika Avinash Shelar, Director.

Acknowledging the Efforts

The success of the Independence Day celebration was possible due to the vision and leadership of the Shivaji Shelar Memorial Foundation, guided by Mrs. Lipika Avinash Shelar and Mrs. Minakshi Shivaji Shelar. Their constant encouragement, along with the dedication of teachers, staff, parents, and volunteers, made the day memorable.

A Celebration to Remember

The Independence Day 2025 celebration at Lead Up International Pre-School was more than just an event—it was a vibrant lesson of love for the nation. With over 120 participants, including 30 preschoolers, 50 community children, and 40 parents, the day truly reflected the values of unity, freedom, and collective joy.

Children returned home with not just chocolates and small takeaways but with memories of singing, dancing, and saluting the flag. Parents left with hearts full of pride, knowing their little ones were already being shaped into responsible, value-driven citizens of tomorrow.

Conclusion

Independence Day is about remembering our past, living in the present, and preparing for the future. At Lead Up International Pre-School, Talegaon Dabhade, this spirit was celebrated with colour, energy, and heartfelt participation.

As the sun set on 15th August 2025, the voices of children shouting “Jai Hind!” echoed in the premises, leaving behind a message—freedom is best celebrated when shared with love, unity, and joy.

Lead Up International Pre-School, Talegaon Dabhade

(A Project of Shivaji Shelar Memorial Foundation)

📍 46/A3, Chandrakant Residency, Satyakamal Colony, Near Datta Mandir, Talegaon Dabhade

📞 7887914668

LEAD UP INTERNATIONAL PRESCHOOL, TALEGAON DABHADE: Cultivating Young Minds with Shivaji Shelar Memorial Foundation

At the heart of Talegaon Dabhade, a beacon of early childhood education shines brightly: LEAD UP INTERNATIONAL PRESCHOOL. This vibrant learning institution stands as a testament to the Shivaji Shelar Memorial Foundation's unwavering commitment to quality education, child development, and community empowerment. More than just a preschool, Lead Up International is a nurturing ground where young minds embark on their lifelong learning journey, fostered by an environment that champions holistic growth and environmental consciousness.

A Shared Vision: Lead Up and Shivaji Shelar Memorial Foundation

The partnership between Lead Up International Preschool and the Shivaji Shelar Memorial Foundation is rooted in a shared vision: to provide accessible and impactful educational opportunities for every child. The Foundation, known for its extensive work in education, health, women empowerment, environmental protection, and child welfare, recognizes the critical importance of early years in shaping a child's future. Lead Up International Preschool, with its innovative approach to early childhood education, perfectly aligns with the Foundation's mission to create social transformation from the grassroots level.

Lead Up International Pre-School

Fostering Environmental Stewardship: The 'One Child – One Plant' Initiative

One of the most remarkable and impactful collaborations between Lead Up International Preschool and the Shivaji Shelar Memorial Foundation is the "One Child – One Plant" initiative. This pioneering program, often highlighted during the annual Van Mahotsav (Forest Festival), goes beyond traditional schooling, instilling a profound sense of environmental responsibility in young children.

Van Mahotsav at Lead Up International Pre-School

During the Van Mahotsav events held at Lead Up International Preschool in Talegaon Dabhade, 251 saplings were distributed free of charge. This wasn't merely a tree-planting drive; it was a carefully designed eco-education program. The core idea behind "One Child – One Plant" is to empower each child with their own sapling, creating a personal connection to nature and a direct understanding of their role in environmental conservation.

Key aspects of this initiative include:

Hands-on Learning: Children actively participate in the sapling distribution, learning about different plant species and their importance.

Parental Engagement: Parents are educated about the significance of medicinal plants and encouraged to cultivate them at home, promoting natural health solutions within families. This also fosters parental involvement in education and environmental activities.

Building Green Awareness: The program significantly contributes to raising environmental awareness from a young age, laying the foundation for a greener future and sustainable living.

Community Participation: The success of this environmental initiative relies on strong collaboration between the local community, school administration, and the dedicated team of the Shivaji Shelar Memorial Foundation.

This "One Child – One Plant" program is more than just planting trees; it's about planting the seeds of environmental consciousness and social responsibility in the hearts of future generations. It's a shining example of how inclusive education can extend beyond academics to cultivate a deeper respect for our planet.

Beyond Environmental Education: A Holistic Approach

While the "One Child – One Plant" initiative showcases a specific successful program, Lead Up International Preschool, supported by the Shivaji Shelar Memorial Foundation, embraces a broader philosophy of holistic development. The Foundation's wider objectives in education and literacy resonate deeply with the preschool's approach:

Foundational Literacy and Numeracy: Ensuring strong basic reading, writing, and arithmetic skills are developed in a fun and engaging manner.

Skill Development for Future Readiness: Though a preschool, the emphasis on basic skill acquisition prepares children for future digital literacy and vocational training opportunities that the Foundation also supports for older youth.

Access to Quality Learning: The collaboration helps to champion accessible education for children from all backgrounds in Talegaon Dabhade and surrounding areas.

Community Involvement: By involving parents and the broader community, the preschool becomes a central point for community learning and overall child welfare.

Impacting the Community: A Foundation's Commitment

The presence of LEAD UP INTERNATIONAL PRESCHOOL under the umbrella of the Shivaji Shelar Memorial Foundation signifies a profound commitment to educational excellence and sustainable community development. By focusing on early childhood, the Foundation is making a direct impact on:

Increased School Readiness: Children graduating from Lead Up are better prepared for primary school, leading to improved academic performance in later years.

Nurturing Future Leaders: Instilling values like environmental care and social responsibility from a young age helps in nurturing well-rounded individuals.

Strengthening Local Education: The collaboration sets a benchmark for quality early education in the region.

The Shivaji Shelar Memorial Foundation is proud to support Lead Up International Preschool in its mission to shape inquisitive, responsible, and well-prepared young learners. This partnership is a cornerstone of the Foundation's broader efforts to create a literate, skilled, and empowered society, truly building a brighter future for all.

Support Our Educational Initiatives

The success of programs like "One Child – One Plant" at LEAD UP INTERNATIONAL PRESCHOOL is only possible with continued support. The Shivaji Shelar Memorial Foundation welcomes individuals and organizations to join its mission of transformative education. Your donations and volunteer efforts directly contribute to providing quality learning opportunities and fostering a generation of responsible citizens in Talegaon Dabhade and beyond.