Lisa’s Testimony – Volunteering at TARA Outreach Centre in Delhi
Volunteering at TARA Outreach Centre in Delhi is an immersion into the daily lives of vulnerable children and communities. Through education, care and human connection, TARA helps children regain confidence and build their future.
Every time I step into the TARA Outreach Centre, dozens of small flip-flops lie scattered at the entrance, dropped in a rush by children eager to join their friends. Their cheerful voices greeting me in English instantly brighten my day. This has become my daily life over the past few months as a volunteer at TARA.
At 22, as a master’s student who had never volunteered before, I felt the need to be useful and connect with others in a world that often encourages withdrawal. I also wanted to challenge myself and discover my capacity to adapt. That’s how I joined TARA — hoping, even in a small way, to help children take control of their own future.
Understanding children’s realities
Knowing that many children had experienced extreme vulnerability, I struggled to imagine the lives I was about to witness. By accompanying the social worker during home visits, I discovered the living conditions of the children supported by TARA Outreach Centre.
Many live in single-room homes shared with their families, often in unsanitary conditions. Toilets are communal and offer little privacy. Yet despite these hardships, their joy, curiosity and desire to learn remain intact.
Building relationships and confidence
Over time, I learned to understand their personalities, dreams and aspirations. Every child has ambitions, and TARA helps guide them towards making those dreams possible.
I was deeply touched by the strong bonds between them. They become brothers, sisters, friends and confidants. They support and respect one another. Witnessing their progress brings immense joy.
Despite the disruption caused by the pandemic, children are making remarkable progress thanks to their determination and the dedication of teachers, nannies and the educational team. Today, I can hold conversations in English with some of the youngest children — something that once seemed impossible.
A life-changing volunteer experience
These months at TARA have been transformative both personally and professionally. I learned organization, patience and adaptability — but above all, kindness, empathy and listening.
I felt truly included, trusted and encouraged to contribute at my own pace. Each day, the TARA team works to make their vision a reality: a world built on fairness, understanding and shared responsibility.
This volunteering experience will remain one of those precious moments that shape a lifetime and help us grow into better human beings.
Volunteer with TARA
Experiences like Lisa’s show how volunteering can transform lives — both for the children and for those who support them. Join us in building a safer and brighter future for vulnerable children in Delhi.