(ANS – Hyderabad) – The annual Young at Risk (YaR) Day celebrations for the states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana were held at Don Bosco “Navajeevan” – meaning, 'New life' – Ramanthapur on December 5-6, 2015. Children from eight Salesian Navajeevan (street presences) centres along with staff and volunteers – totally 400 – participated in this two day event. All activities of the two days were centred on the themes 'Family is my right' and 'No bullying'.

The hosting community planned for a day of animation followed by a day of outdoor activity. 

During the inauguration, Fr Sudhakar Bellamkonda, Coordinator of the YaR Commission of Hyderabad Province, welcomed all the children, directors, staff and volunteers from the different YaR centres – Hyderabad, Auxilium Navajeevana, Vijayawada, Vizag, Rajahmundry, Ongole, Warangal and Kurnool.

After that, the children were divided into senior and juniors as per their age for two interactive sessions on the themes, 'Family' and 'No bullying'. Another note-worthy feature of the whole event was the participation of the children from the local community at all levels: planning, organization, coordination and active involvement. Besides the external jury for the cultural evening on the first day, there was also a 'bal adalat' (childrens' jury) with a representative from each centre. The campfire that concluded the day was an exciting experience for the children with creative games and activities. 

The second day was dedicated to sports and outdoor activities and witnessed children bring life to the campus. While those involved in the official games were busy racing for the prizes, the others invented their own games and were busy – in their usual kids’ style.

The concluding ceremony held late in the afternoon summed up the event.  Specially designed trophies were given out on the basis of a surprise random survey conducted during the two days. A solemn pledge marking the commitment to end bullying was taken by all. Each participant then imprinted his or her palm-print on a banner to endorse the same. 

Fr Sudhakar, as he closed the celebrations, thanked everyone and reminded each one that it was truly a celebration of our togetherness, as a family.

Published 10/12/2015