Maggie Gruber Computer Center

Congratulations to Maggie Gruber- the computer center in her name recently opened at Project Why.  It will provide computer literacy classes, training, and opportunities for many students (children and adults) who might otherwise have no access to this kind of technology.

This is a very fitting tribute as Maggie has been one of our most dedicated volunteers and strongest supporters.  She is a key figure in the upcoming Hough School 5th Annual Chess Tournament Fundraiser (more details here)

Thank you, Maggie!

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Happy International Day of the Girl!

Today, Thursday, October 11th, has been designated as the "International Day of the Girl" by the United Nations. The campaign to establish the day through the United Nations was led in the United States by School Girls Unite, an organization of students and women leaders. Cities all across the country are participating in a Day of the Girl Proclamation Project in honor of the day and to spread awareness about human rights issues such as gender equality and access to universal basic education. 

Meher's story and ongoing journey is a triumph to celebrate on International Day of the Girl- she is now granted access to education that would most likely have been unavailable to her before, and as she gets older and continues to excel in school, her leadership capabilities are becoming more and more apparent. She is an example of how one opportunity can transform a life. Unfortunately, there are still so many children- both boys and girls- who never receive their opportunity.

School Visit

Anou recently visited everyone at school. They had a lovely time together and all of the children are happy, healthy, and doing extremely well. Meher is as lively as ever and continues to excel academically and socially.

Adult Volunteer Delivers Donation to New Delhi

Sudha, an adult volunteer, will be travelling to India later this month. She graciously offered to personally deliver a donation to Project Why that will go towards a technology center at the Women's Center, allowing the women and children there to take computer classes and develop marketable skills. This donation was made possible by Sudha and fund-raising through Chess Without Borders. Thank you to everyone who supported this cause, but especially Sudha for her generosity and willingness to help.

Photograph of Sudha volunteering at a recent chess tournament.

Sujit Travels to New Delhi

Last month, Sujit, a long time volunteer and supporter of Chess Without Borders and the Meher fund, traveled to India with his mother (who is also a longtime volunteer and supporter of ours). After over four years of volunteering and fund-raising for her cause, Sujit was able to meet Meher in New Delhi at the Women's Centre of Project Why! They were both delighted to meet each other and Meher gave Sujit a tour of the center, showing off the excellent English she has learned at school. Sujit also made a donation to Project Why (as shown in the photograph above). Thank you Sujit for all of your support and hard work! None of this would have ever been possible without the generous spirit of volunteers and supporters like you.

Special Thanks to Ethan

Ethan, a 2nd grader from Barrington, IL, was so moved by Meher's story that he chose to donate his own money towards her education fund. He has been involved with Chess Without Borders and felt inspired to take action. We are very grateful to him for his generosity and support.

Photo of Ethan explaining his desire to donate at a recent chess tournament.