2024 – Anuradhapura – Riyanzie Alagiyawanna Special school visit

by Lionel Bandara | May 3, 2024 | Schools-Visits

Report on Visit to Anuradhapura Riyanzie Alagiyawanna Special (Deaf Blind) School

Introduction

While I was in Sri Lanka on holiday in April 2024, I managed to communicate with the former principal of the Anuradhapura Riyanzie Alagiyawanna Special (Deaf Blind) School, Mrs. Sagarika Chandrani Wimaratne. I made arrangements for my visit because this school was selected to receive funds from DABAL’s AGM held in October 2023. Although Mrs. Sagarika retired a few weeks ago, she kindly volunteered to organize our visit and introduced me to the new principal, Mr. Sudath Priyadarshna.

The Visit

I spoke to Mr. Priyadarshna beforehand and visited the school on the 4th of May. The management board, all principals, teachers, and students welcomed us warmly, and they were delighted with our visit. One of my sister’s friends, Sujeewa, kindly offered his car for the trip. I drove with my brother-in-law, Manjula Indrajith, and his daughter Jayani. The journey from Kurunegala to Anuradhapura, about 100 km, took approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Event Highlights

The visit was remarkable. The welcoming dance by deaf children created an incredibly warm and inclusive atmosphere. Their creativity and enthusiasm were truly inspiring. Additionally, there were many more performances by individual and groups of students, skillfully coordinated by the dancing teachers behind the scenes.

Purpose of Donation

The funds we donated will be used to install a ceiling in the boys’ hall to protect from the sun and to prevent flooding during the rainy season. The ceiling will also help during hot periods, providing much-needed comfort.

Speeches and Appreciation

Several speeches were given by board members, the Principal, the Vice Principal, and the former Principal, expressing their admiration for our support and wishing us continued strength in the future. The gratitude and warmth from the school community were deeply felt.

The visit to Anuradhapura Riyanzie Alagiyawanna Special (Deaf Blind) School was a fulfilling experience, showcasing the impact of our efforts and the appreciation from the community. We look forward to continuing our support for these deserving schools.

Thank you, Lionel Bandara 03.05.2024 (DABAL – Chairman)

Capturing Moments of Joy and Learning

School Visit Photo Gallery

2024 – Gampaha Thihariya School for the Physically Handicaped school visit

by Lionel Bandara | Apr 19, 2024 | Schools-Visits

A Journey of Hope and Support

Visit to Thihariya, Gampaha Islamic Centre for Visually Handicapped

Join us as we explore the inspiring work being done at the Thihariya, Gampaha School for Visually Handicapped, where education and empowerment meet.

Warm Welcome and School Tour

Upon arrival, the principal, teachers, and students greeted us with open arms, setting a welcoming tone for our visit. We were taken on a detailed tour of the school’s facilities, witnessing firsthand the dedication to creating an inclusive learning environment.

Exploring the School's Facilities

The tour highlighted the various classrooms and specialized areas designed to support the unique needs of the students. It was inspiring to see the commitment to providing quality education and resources for visually impaired children.
Manager said ‘Your generous donation will help us enhance the auditory experience for students at the Thihariya, Gampaha School for the Visually Handicapped. With your support, we aim to replace the outdated sound system in the auditorium, ensuring all students can fully participate in school events.’

A Memorable Lunch Experience

During our visit, we had the pleasure of sharing a meal with the students and staff. This gathering was more than just a lunch; it was a heartwarming opportunity to connect with the community. The students’ enthusiasm and the staff’s dedication were palpable, creating an atmosphere of unity and joy.

As we interacted with the children, their stories and aspirations inspired us deeply. The sense of camaraderie among them was infectious, and it was clear that the school is not just an educational institution but a nurturing home for these young minds. Our time there reinforced the importance of our mission and the impact of our support.

Addressing Critical Needs

Urgent Call for a New Braille Printer

Reflecting on a Meaningful Visit

Our visit to the Thihariya, Gampaha School for the Visually Handicapped was a profoundly moving experience. Witnessing the dedication of the staff and the vibrant spirit of the students was truly inspiring. The school’s commitment to providing a nurturing and inclusive environment for children with visual and hearing impairments is commendable.

We are deeply grateful for the warm welcome and the opportunity to contribute to the school’s mission. The generosity and resilience of everyone involved left a lasting impression, reinforcing our commitment to supporting their invaluable work. We look forward to seeing the positive impact of our donation and continuing our partnership in the future.

Join Us in Making a Difference

Your support can transform lives at the Thihariya, Gampaha School for the Deaf and Blind. By contributing to our initiatives, you help provide essential resources and create a more inclusive learning environment for these remarkable students. Together, we can ensure that every child has access to the tools they need to succeed.

We invite you to join us in this meaningful journey. Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness, your involvement is invaluable. Let’s work together to empower these students and make a lasting impact on their education and future.

2024 – March – Riders for Charity – Cycling

by Lionel Bandara | Mar 3, 2024 | Events

Ride for DABAL

Padaling towards hope

Perfect Team for Perfect Project

DABAL-Charity Cycling Event

Introduction:

Welcome to the Ride for DABAL Charity fundraising event page! We are excited to embark on a remarkable journey fuelled by compassion and solidarity. As volunteers united under the banner of ‘Riders for Charity,’ we invite you to join us in this exhilarating ride as we pedal towards a brighter future for those in need.

Event Overview:

Ride for DABAL is not just a cycling event; it is a testament to the power of community and the spirit of giving. DABAL (Deaf and Blind Aid Lanka) is dedicated to providing crucial support and resources to children with hearing and vision impairments in Sri Lanka. Our 275-kilometer coastal ride around the south of Sri Lanka is a symbolic gesture of our commitment to their cause.

Become a Contributer

Come and join with us

Date: 2nd & 3rd March, 2024 (Saturday & Sunday)

Location: Colombo

Participants: Cyclists of all skill levels, supporters, and volunteers

Event Type: Self Sponsored

Fundraising Goal

Our main goal is to amplify the cause and the charity – and our financial goal is an attainable one, thanks to the unwavering support of individuals like you. We aim to raise just £5000 (GBP) to bolster DABAL’s 2024 efforts in providing essential services and assistance to the deaf and blind schools in Sri Lanka.

How you can help?

Donate: Your contributions will directly support DABAL’s mission to improve the lives of children with hearing and vision impairments. Every donation, no matter the amount, makes a meaningful impact.

Spread the Word: Share our fundraising page with your network and encourage others to join our cause. Together, we can amplify our reach and support for DABAL.

Join Us: Are you passionate about cycling and making a difference? Join our team as a volunteer rider, or to help with event logistics. Your involvement will help us create a memorable and impactful experience for all.

Conclusion

Thank you for considering a donation towards the Deaf and Blind Aid Lanka (DABAL) Charity. Your generosity has the power to transform lives, inspire hope, and create lasting change for the deaf and blind children in Sri Lanka. Together, let us pedal towards a brighter future where every individual has the support and resources they need to succeed.

Thanks for taking the time to visit our JustGiving page.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Join us on this meaningful journey today – Thank you!

View The Collection

Thank You from DABAL

View The Collection

2024 – Jan – DABAL Committee Meeting

by Lionel Bandara | Jan 28, 2024 | Committee Meetings

Committee Meeting – 28-01-2024
DABAL committee members met at Ranjith’s place to discuss future projects.

2023 – DABAL Annual General Meeting

by Lionel Bandara | Oct 28, 2023 | Annual-General-Meeting

DABAL Annual General Meeting 2023

DABAL

29.10.2023 St Michael Church

Donate Now

How it happened

The 18th DABAL AGM was held on 28th October 2023 in the Michael Room of St. Michael and All Angels Church, Bath Road, London W4 ITT.

The members and their friends were welcomed by Mr. Sarath Weerasinghe, founder member.

Then a very personal presentation by Dr Christina Crossette-Thambiah, the secretary of DABAL, of her first visit to Sri Lanka since she left at the age of one, was made. It was combined with the moving stories and images the committee members’ visit in 2022 to distribute the grant awards. It showed her the magic of what the children were able to appreciate and learn from the schools, giving all the more impetus to all to help resource these schools.

The distinguished guests and speakers were introduced being the Deputy Sri Lanka High Commissioner, Mrs Manorie Mallikarathchy, who promised to introduce DABAL to the Sri Lanka administrative departments which would help as well as give them more publicity to raise fund.

Chief Guest speaker was Dr Chris Nonis, who had been elected as a second Patron in addition to Lord Colin Low, to support the charity. Dr Nonis is a very distinguished person, medical doctor, chairman of a conglomerate in Sri Lanka and has vast experience of working with charities. He expressed his delight and being asked and has a long interaction with the charities founding members.

Before an interval for a delicious traditional Sri Lankan lunch and refreshments the speakers were presented with gifts and the formal proceedings commenced.

After the minutes of the 17th Annual General Meeting held on the 22rd October 2022 were confirmed and accepted by the members, the Chair Mr. Lionel Bandara presented his report for the year October 2022-October 2023. Some of the highlights of the report were the record of visits to four schools in Sri Lanka undertaken by himself, Mrs. Nadani Welikala, and local representatives.

DABAL celebrates its 20th anniversary next year and will organise a grand musical concert at St. Michael and All Angels Church with Mr Alan Durham as musical director.

Ms. Teri Welkala, the Treasurer presented the Treasurer’s Report and the Accounts were adopted by the meeting. Next the election of the Office Bearers and the Committee took place and Mr Sithara Wickramarachchi was confirmed as DABAL’s Auditor and External Examiner for this year. A warm farewell was given to Mrs. Cynthia Fernandez who had held that post for many years and she was also presented with a thank you gift.

In AOB our other special guest Mr Walter de Krester of Riders for Charity spoke about giving us support for a fundraising cycle around Sri Lanka early next year.

The Vote of Thanks was given by Vice-chair Mr. Ranjith Chandrasena and the meeting concluded with the Grand Raffle Draw