Thanal Grandma Home, Bangalore, hosted a study tour observation visit for 18 students and 2 staff members from Munnad Peoples College on August 31, 2024. The program was a resounding success, providing valuable insights into our operations and activities, and fostering a deeper understanding of our organization’s mission and values. The visit was a testament to the power of collaboration and mutual learning, as we shared our experiences and expertise with the next generation of social workers and change-makers.

The day began with a warm welcome by our Centre Coordinator, Mr. Sumith P.T., Social Worker, Ms. Divya, and Malabar State CSR Handling Staff, Mr. Haider. The students and faculty were introduced to our organization, and an overview of Thanal, Grandma Home, Feed the Needy, and MLC was provided. This introduction set the stage for a comprehensive understanding of our organization’s various initiatives, which aim to address the complex needs of the homeless and vulnerable populations.

The session that followed covered various aspects of our operations, including:

• Introduction to Thanal Grandma Home and its mission to provide shelter, food, and care to the homeless
• Overview of our rescue and documentation processes, which ensure the safe and dignified admission of patients
• Insights into our CSR activities and partnerships, which enable us to leverage resources and expertise for greater impact
• Explanation of patient care and services provided, including medical treatment, counseling, and rehabilitation

The students showed keen interest and engaged actively in the discussions, asking thoughtful questions and seeking clarification on various aspects of our operations. Their enthusiasm and curiosity were evident throughout the session, as they sought to understand the complexities of our work and the challenges we face.

Following the session, the students observed our kitchen, patient sitting arrangements, and agriculture cultivation. They also visited the patient floors, interacting with the patients and caretakers, and gaining a firsthand understanding of our patient care services. This experiential learning opportunity allowed them to connect theoretical concepts with practical realities, deepening their understanding of the social and emotional nuances of our work.

A question-and-answer session was held, where the students asked a variety of questions, which were answered by our team members. The students expressed their admiration for our facilities and activities and inquired about potential internship opportunities, demonstrating their interest in engaging with our organization on a deeper level. This exchange of ideas and experiences was a highlight of the visit, as it fostered a sense of community and shared purpose.

The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Ms. Akhila, and a memento was presented to Thanal Grandma Home. A group photo was taken to commemorate the occasion, capturing the spirit of collaboration and mutual respect that defined the day’s events.