PUNE: Taking a cue from the slogan, ‘Education is for all, and everybody deserves to study’, city-based Aasra Foundation has started Community Asset Mapping (CAM) for the children of Isharath Baug slum on NIBM road. CAM means understanding the assets available in the community, within its members.

“People living in slums usually do not understand the importance of assets available with their community. We try to teach these students about the abilities they have, the assets they possess and the right use of their talent along with academics,” said Tara Kinra, one of the members of Aasra.

Asset mapping is a positive approach to learn about a community and help its members think positively about the place in which they live and work. By identifying community assets, they can understand better about sustainable development to enhance future generations. After Tara came to India, she introduced this way of development to the Aasra Foundation and started working on it a few months back.

After Community Asset Mapping (CAM), the children also realise the importance of their pets, shops, and their talents like stitching, dancing, etc. The members of Aasra also teach the kids about other important issues such as gender equality, mental health, practical applications of their study and sports. Children of that area now understanding the concept of ‘sharing is caring” said Tara.