About the Trust
Founded in 2016, "The Power of One" is a non-profit charitable trust dedicated to advancing education. The trust's website was launched on October 11, 2016, coinciding with the auspicious festival of Dusherra. The brainchild of Prasad Narayan from Pune, India, this trust represents his aspiration to make a significant and widespread impact. While Prasad has always been committed to helping those in need, he envisioned a more extensive initiative. He questioned why funds should only be mobilized during crises and why financial aid should be limited to contributions from a few individuals. Prasad proposed that if every taxpayer contributed just one rupee daily, it would amount to Rs. 365 per person annually—a sum that is manageable for most and significantly less than what one might spend on a meal. This ambitious project aims to leverage collective small contributions to create substantial aid. Prasad was inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s words, “Be the change that you wish to see in the world,” and has witnessed first hand the hardships of individuals unable to pursue education due to financial constraints, leading him to champion this cause.
Thought Behind the Trust
Following the terrorist attacks in Mumbai in November 2008, Prasad shared his thoughts in a letter published by the Pune Mirror. This idea persisted with him, especially after witnessing a family's struggle to fund their daughter's education despite her excellent academic performance. Although he provided financial support to the girl, Prasad recognized the limitations of individual contributions. According to wealth18.com, out of India's 1.2 billion population, only about 35 million are taxpayers. If each taxpayer donated one rupee per day, it would generate Rs. 35 million daily. Even if just one-tenth of taxpayers participated, it would still result in Rs. 35 lakhs daily. Reducing the number further to just 3,500 contributors would still yield a significant Rs. 1 lakh monthly, enough to support educational initiatives. While one rupee may seem insignificant, consistent contributions can have a transformative impact. Unlike many NGOs that set a minimum donation amount, "The Power of One" emphasizes voluntary contributions, allowing individuals to give what they can. Prasad envisions this trust as a systematic approach to charity, akin to SIP investments. Inspired by Steve Jobs' philosophy that passion drives vision without the need for external motivation, Prasad aims to make a lasting difference through collective action.
Inspirational Stories
Brothers in Arms: One Can't Walk, the Other Helps Him Fly
This touching story highlights the bond between two brothers, where one, despite being unable to walk, finds freedom through the unwavering support of the other. You can read more about their inspiring journey [here](http://epaperbeta.timesofindia.com/Article.aspx?eid=31808&articlexml=Brothers-in-arms-One-cant-walk-the-other-19062016008011).
Gritty Slum Girl Overcomes Odds to Crack CA Exam at One Go
Defying the odds of her challenging environment, a determined girl from the slums successfully cleared the Chartered Accountancy exam on her first attempt. Her remarkable achievement stands as a testament to her perseverance and dedication. For the full story, visit [this link](http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/pune/Gritty-slum-girl-overcomes-odds-to-crack-CA-exam-at-one-go/articleshow/53348375.cms).
Rising Literacy Rates and Persisting Illiteracy
While India's literacy rate has climbed to 74.4%, the reduction in illiteracy has not kept pace with the growing population. For more details on this issue, refer to [this article](http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Literacy-rate-up-but-so-is-illiteracy/articleshow/50749744.cms).
18-Year-Old Kolkata Slum Boy Scripts IIT Success Story
An 18-year-old boy from the slums of Kolkata has achieved a significant milestone by gaining admission to the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT). His story exemplifies the power of determination and hard work. Read more about his journey [here](http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/18-year-old-Kolkata-slum-boy-scripts-IIT-success-story/articleshow/47858412.cms).
And the list of such inspiring stories could go on and on.