Blog – Page 5 – BTG TRUST

HOPE IN ACTION – Safe Days

As part of Menstrual Hygiene Day 2025, BTG Trust organized a vital initiative titled “Pad for Her – A Year of Care” in the tribal village of Thensangampalayam, Anamalai Block, Coimbatore District. Conducted in collaboration with the Rotaract Club of Coimbatore Smart City and supported by the District Administration, this event addressed the pressing challenges of limited access to menstrual hygiene products and lack of awareness. A total of 150 tribal women received a 12-month supply of sanitary napkins, fully funded through public donations and crowdfunding efforts. The initiative also included comprehensive awareness sessions led by health professionals, focusing on safe menstrual hygiene practices, personal care, eco-friendly disposal methods, and debunking menstruation-related myths. The event witnessed participation from local governance, including the Block Development Officer (BDO), enhancing its reach and credibility. This initiative forms part of BTG Trust’s broader “Safe Days” project launched in 2022, aiming to promote menstrual health, dignity, and confidence among underprivileged women and adolescent girls. The event began with welcoming remarks and felicitation of dignitaries, followed by educational sessions and sanitary napkin distribution. By encouraging open dialogue and culturally sensitive education, the program successfully broke taboos and empowered women with knowledge. It strengthened community engagement and built a strong network involving youth organizations, health workers, and local bodies. The success of this initiative lies in its holistic approach—combining access, awareness, and advocacy. It exemplifies BTG Trust’s mission to promote sustainable, community-driven solutions that prioritize women’s health and well-being. The commitment of all stakeholders reflects a collective move towards long-term behavioral change and dignity in menstrual health management. BTG Trust expresses heartfelt gratitude to its donors, volunteers, and partners for making this impactful intervention possible. The event concluded with closing remarks emphasizing the importance of continued collaboration to ensure every woman manages menstruation with safety, confidence, and care.

Community Development

EDU-PLAY – Summer Camp 2025

On 24th May 2025, BTG Trust, in collaboration with RPM Global Business Capability Center, organized a vibrant and meaningful one-day summer camp titled “Summer Camp 2025 Edu Play” at the Seenguli Community Hall in Anaikatti. The camp brought together 48 children aged 6 to 16 from tribal and underprivileged communities across Seenguli, Vadakkaloor, and Thekkaloor. Designed to blend learning with fun, the camp offered a variety of creative and interactive sessions to promote personal growth, teamwork, and environmental awareness. Activities such as “My Hand, My Dream,” “Colour Your Mind,” and “Make Your Hat” encouraged children to explore their aspirations, imagination, and creativity using sustainable materials. Post-lunch games like “The Right Hop” and “Pass the Paper Cup” boosted physical coordination, confidence, and collaboration among the children. A vibrant photo booth added joy and captured memories, while the Closing Circle allowed children to reflect and share their experiences. Supported by 15 volunteers from RPM GBCC and BTG Trust, the camp was safe, inclusive, and inspiring. All children received certificates and encouragement that uplifted their spirits. The camp achieved its goals of building confidence, fostering self-expression, and enhancing social skills. The successful collaboration between BTG Trust and RPM GBCC highlighted the power of partnerships in community development and left a lasting impact on every participant.

Women Empowerment

HANDMADE HEROINES 14 – Basic Mehendi Course

The Basic Mehendi Course held at Pullukadu Housing Unit from May 20 to 22, 2025, was a three-day initiative aimed at empowering underprivileged women with artistic and income-generating skills. With 10 participants, the program focused on teaching the fundamentals of organic mehendi, including cone making and applying traditional and contemporary designs such as Arabic, bridal, and mandala patterns. The hands-on training enabled participants to master speed, accuracy, and design composition, laying the groundwork for professional application. Participants learned to prepare natural mehendi paste using eco-friendly ingredients, ensuring safe and skin-friendly designs. The training emphasized client-specific work, allowing the women to meet the diverse needs of customers for weddings, festivals, and special occasions. The program also provided entrepreneurial guidance, encouraging women to monetize their skills by taking up orders, joining local exhibitions, or promoting their services online. With practical insights into product development, pricing, and customer interaction, the workshop enhanced their business readiness. It served as a launchpad for self-employment, helping women gain financial independence and confidence. The training not only imparted technical skills but also inspired creativity and self-belief. Many participants expressed interest in furthering their learning and pursuing mehendi art as a side or full-time business. The initiative highlighted how low-investment, home-based skills can transform lives and open new economic opportunities. As part of a broader livelihood mission, the course reinforced the value of grassroots skill development in building self-reliant communities.

Women Empowerment

HANDMADE HEROINES 12 – Silk Thread Jewellery Making

BTG Trust organized a two-day Entrepreneurship Development Training on Silk Thread Jewellery Making at the Pullukadu Housing Unit from April 29th to 30th, 2025. Designed to empower underprivileged women and adolescent girls, the program focused on equipping participants with hands-on creative skills for self-employment and income generation. Four participants took part in the workshop, where they learned to craft elegant bangles, earrings, and hair accessories using vibrant silk threads and simple tools. With beginner-friendly guidance, the training encouraged creativity, enhanced confidence, and introduced basic color coordination and festive design preferences. The workshop served as an entry point into the cottage industry, offering practical knowledge with minimal investment requirements. Key highlights included hands-on training in crafting hair accessories, understanding material sourcing, product finishing, pricing, and marketing strategies. Participants also received insights on selling through local exhibitions and online platforms. The session emphasized market-ready designs suitable for daily and festive wear, preparing attendees to monetize their skills. A special focus was placed on building entrepreneurial confidence and promoting micro-enterprise models that can be operated from home. Feedback from participants reflected increased motivation and interest in pursuing home-based businesses. They appreciated the step-by-step instruction and practical sessions, which made learning accessible and enjoyable. The workshop concluded with participants expressing gratitude for the opportunity and a strong desire for further training. This initiative reaffirmed BTG Trust’s commitment to skill-based development and inclusive growth, laying a foundation for sustainable livelihood opportunities and economic self-reliance among women in marginalized communities.

Healthcare

HOPE IN ACTION – SAFE DAYS

On April 15, 2025, BTG Trust implemented its HopeInAction – #SafeDays initiative at Corporation Middle School, Chinnavedampatti, in collaboration with the Tamil Nadu Education Department and with support from Exterro. A sanitary napkin vending machine was installed to ensure that 168 girl students have consistent and private access to menstrual hygiene products. Alongside this, awareness sessions were held to educate students on safe menstrual practices, hygiene, and disposal methods, while also working to break the stigma surrounding menstruation. This initiative provided both practical support and vital health education, empowering young girls to manage their periods with dignity and confidence. It stands as a strong example of how community partnerships can create lasting impact in promoting health and well-being in schools.

Healthcare

HOPE IN ACTION – World Health Day 2025

Menstrual Kit Distribution – Vadakkalur On April 7, 2025, BTG Trust marked World Health Day by organizing a menstrual hygiene awareness session and distributing three-month sanitary napkin kits to 23 women in the tribal village of Vadakkalur. The initiative aimed to improve access to menstrual hygiene products and promote safe practices through awareness talks on usage, disposal, and stigma reduction. This effort supported the health, dignity, and confidence of tribal women while reinforcing BTG Trust’s commitment to community well-being.

Community Development

CHILD; NOT BRIDE – Child Marriage Awareness Campaign

On 27th March 2025, BTG Trust, in collaboration with the District Social Welfare Office, conducted a powerful Child Marriage Awareness Campaign in Vadakkaloor, Periyanaikenpalayam Block. The initiative focused on educating tribal communities about the adverse effects of child marriage, both legally and socially. Door-to-door awareness drives were carried out in 60 households, with informative pamphlets distributed and stickers placed at homes declaring a stand against child marriage. Volunteers from PSG College of Technology, Bharathiyar University, and Dr. NGP Arts & Science College played a vital role in engaging with the community in their native language. Through meaningful conversations, families learned about the importance of education, particularly for girls, and the risks of early marriage. The campaign uncovered key issues like poverty, patriarchal norms, fear of elopement, and lack of education that perpetuate the practice. Community members welcomed the initiative, many pledging to delay their children’s marriages until they complete their education. The visual declarations created visibility and accountability within the village. A WhatsApp group is being established for early reporting and continuous support. The campaign also aims to form local committees and expand to neighboring villages. The event marked a significant step in building resilient communities and protecting the future of young girls. BTG Trust continues to drive change through grassroots action, empowerment, and awareness.

Education

HOPE IN ACTION – Touch To Learn

On 22nd March 2024, BTG Trust successfully conducted a meaningful distribution initiative at the Government Visually Impaired School, Uliyampalayam, Coimbatore. Sixteen visually impaired students benefitted from the event, receiving essential Braille slates and styluses aimed at enhancing their access to education. Sponsored through Skill Development Training – Fund Raising, this two-hour program focused on empowering students by promoting Braille literacy and independent learning. The event began with a warm welcome and an introduction by BTG Trust, followed by a clear explanation of the program’s objectives. Students were guided on the importance of using Braille tools in their academic journey. The initiative emphasized inclusive education, equal opportunities, and the long-term impact of equipping students with the right tools. The event concluded with closing remarks reinforcing the commitment to supporting visually impaired learners. BTG Trust remains dedicated to advocating for educational resources that foster growth, confidence, and independence among all students, regardless of their abilities.

Community Development

CHILD; NOT BRIDE – Child Marriage Awareness Campaign

On 20th March 2025, BTG Trust, in collaboration with the District Social Welfare Office, Coimbatore, launched Phase 1 of a comprehensive Child Marriage Awareness Campaign across tribal villages in the Periyanaikenpalayam Block—specifically Panapalli and Kandivezhi. Despite strong laws like the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, child marriage continues to persist due to deep-rooted customs, poverty, gender bias, and lack of education. The campaign aimed to educate families about the legal, health, and social consequences of child marriage while promoting the value of girls’ education. Volunteers from institutions such as PSG College of Technology, Bharathiyar University, Dr. NGP Arts and Science College, Avinashilingam University, and Sree Saraswathi Thyagaraja College played a crucial role in sensitizing the community. Door-to-door awareness sessions were held in 98 households across both villages, where community members engaged in open discussions. Over 400 pamphlets were distributed, and 90 anti-child marriage awareness stickers were placed on doors to serve as visible declarations. The response from the villagers was highly encouraging, with many parents pledging support for education and delaying marriage. Community leaders showed interest in continuing awareness efforts. As part of the next steps, WhatsApp groups for real-time reporting, local monitoring committees, and follow-up visits are being established. This grassroots campaign marks a vital step toward ending child marriage and building a safer, more equitable future for children in tribal areas.

Women Empowerment

HANDMADE HEROINES 10 – Basic to Advance Mehendi Course

The Basic to Advanced Mehendi Course held from March 18 to 21, 2025, at Pullukadu Housing Unit aimed to empower underprivileged women through skill-based training in organic mehendi artistry. Over four days, participants learned to prepare natural mehendi paste, make cones, and master a variety of intricate design styles including Arabic, bridal, mandala, and event-specific patterns. Emphasis was placed on design composition, symmetry, and spacing to match client expectations. The course not only improved artistic techniques but also focused on entrepreneurial opportunities, guiding women to offer services for weddings, festivals, and local events. Through hands-on practice and expert instruction, participants developed speed and precision in application. Special sessions addressed customer communication, pricing, and online promotion. By using organic ingredients, the training ensured skin-safe, eco-friendly practices. The program fostered confidence and creativity, encouraging participants to turn a personal interest into a sustainable income source. Reviews highlighted the well-structured curriculum, detailed demonstrations, and professional insights. Participants gained knowledge in facial structure mapping and mehendi placement, enhancing their skillset for bridal and special event artistry. The training created a supportive space for learning, experimentation, and personal growth. Many expressed enthusiasm about starting their own mehendi businesses. This course reflects the transformative power of grassroots skill development and serves as a stepping stone toward financial independence, proving that with the right guidance, a traditional art form can open doors to self-employment and empowerment.