Recently, Sukh Chugh and Kristeen Singh of the JCHC Foundation met with JC from Chhoti Si Asha to discuss supporting the organization’s Badlaav Program, an after-school initiative designed to help children from underserved communities build stronger academic and life skills.

Chhoti Si Asha works with women from villages near Chandigarh, including Khuda Lahora, Khuda Jassu, and Nayagaon, helping them develop sustainable livelihoods through handicrafts and community-based initiatives. In addition to empowering women economically, the organization also focuses on supporting the next generation through educational and mentorship programs.

One of these initiatives is Badlaav. The program serves approximately 18–25 children, typically between the ages of 12 and 19, many of whom may be struggling academically or lack access to strong educational resources. It operates as an after-school program, usually running 4–5 hours each day, and can extend to up to 7 hours daily during exam periods to provide additional academic support.

Beyond tutoring, the Badlaav program focuses on holistic development, helping students build confidence, discipline, and curiosity about the world around them. Activities include exercise, boxing, trekking, tutoring, and educational field trips that allow students to interact with peers from other cities and broaden their perspectives. Upcoming plans include a student trip to Mumbai and the launch of a new cohort for younger children aged 6–8, expanding the program’s reach to an earlier stage of development.

During the meeting, JC shared insights into the program’s impact and future goals, and how outside partners can help strengthen the opportunities available to the students involved. The JCHC Foundation expressed its commitment to supporting the Badlaav program, recognizing the meaningful work it is doing to help young people develop academically and personally.

Funds raised from the JCHC Foundation’s upcoming Casino Night fundraiser will go toward supporting the Badlaav program and its continued growth. More information about the event can be found at www.jasdeepchugh.com.

The meeting marked an encouraging step toward collaboration, with a shared goal: helping create meaningful opportunities for young people and supporting positive change in the communities served by Chhoti Si Asha.