Volunteer Study Report 2019

The report explores the Aahar program by SNEHA, designed to combat childhood malnutrition in urban informal settlements in Mumbai. The initiative initially provided direct services but transitioned to a community-centric approach, focusing on building the capacity of local volunteers and strengthening partnerships with public health and nutrition services. Volunteers, both male and female, were recruited and trained to disseminate information on health and nutrition, mobilize community members, and advocate for better public services. Despite challenges posed by gender norms and limited social networks, the program empowered volunteers, particularly women, by fostering knowledge, confidence, and a sense of identity beyond traditional roles.

The Aahar program succeeded in mobilizing a significant number of volunteers and enhancing their technical knowledge of health and nutrition. It emphasized flexibility and cultural sensitivity, enabling volunteers to contribute within their constraints. Female volunteers primarily focused on disseminating information and mobilizing participation in neighborhood activities, while male volunteers worked on broader community issues like water and sanitation. The initiative revealed significant transformations, such as women gaining confidence to speak in public forums and men challenging traditional gender norms by engaging in maternal and child health issues.

However, the program faced limitations in volunteer engagement and community reach due to practical constraints and systemic challenges. It highlighted the need for improved volunteer-community interactions, better integration with public sector services, and sustainable mechanisms for peer learning and collective action. The report suggests further refining the volunteer strategy to enhance its scope and effectiveness, emphasizing the need for long-term advocacy and funding to achieve meaningful and lasting community transformation.