7. Conclusion

This has been a very long report.  A lot of work has been done.  But there is still a lot more work to do.

Moving beyond the initial relief and rehabilitation phase, we are now clearly working on the long term issues.  Just yesterday the Hindu carried a newspaper report of our work – announcing the foundation stone ceremony of our school in Koovathur.  This should remind us of the long term nature of commitment we have taken up.  To us Tsunami rehabilitation work does not end in 2-3 years.  It is at least a 10 year commitment to work in the area and to bring about overall improvements in the health, education and living conditions of the people.

We had a large number of volunteers during the first few months. This flood has slowly become a trickle and is threatening to stop!  We desperately need more volunteers – both interns who want to work for a short time and local volunteers from Chennai who can help on a regular basis.  We would like to form volunteer chapters in companies and colleges in Chennai – if you are interested in starting a chapter do get in touch with us.

I had mentioned earlier that the Tsunami had brought in a wave of new energy and hope. You are the reason for this new energy and hope.  All this work was possible only because of the financial, time and moral support from a large number of donors and volunteers like you.  This is as much a report of your work and contributions as it is of ours. Thank you.

-         Balaji Sampath