Overview Building Blocks , an initiative founded by Suresh Ambat in 2004 , has grown from a small garage school to a network of 10 preschools located within slum areas in Bengaluru. The organization provides early education to over 1,300 children from families of daily-wage workers and domestic helpers, offering them a crucial start in life. Key Developments Founding: The organization was established in 2004 by Suresh Ambat . Expansion: It has expanded to include 10 preschools within slum areas. Beneficiaries: Over 1,300 children from low-income families benefit from the program. Community Involvement: The centers are community-run, with teachers often coming from the same communities. Support: The initiative is sustained through individual donors and corporate CSR support. The Founder's Vision Suresh Ambat's vision was shaped by his own experiences growing up in a small village in Kerala and recognizing the importance of early education. An accident led him to question his purpose and dedicate his life to helping underprivileged children access education. Early Challenges and Growth Initially, the project faced challenges including gaining the trust of the slum communities. Parents were wary of free education, but their fears dissipated as they saw their children learning and developing. The project grew through goodwill, with neighbors donating supplies and friends contributing financially. Key Supporters Megumi: A Japanese woman who sponsors over 200 children . Boeing: Provided a significant CSR grant that allowed for upgrades to the schools. International Support: Friends from Australia and the Netherlands helped fund additional schools and introduced daily meals for the students. Impact and Sustainability The initiative has significantly impacted the lives of children in the slums, providing them with education and nutrition. The children graduating from the preschools are linked with sponsors who support their education up to grade 10 in English-medium schools. The project is sustained through individual donors and corporate CSR support, highlighting the importance of community and corporate involvement in addressing social issues. UPSC Relevance This initiative is relevant to GS2 (Social Justice and Education) and GS3 (Economy and CSR) . It demonstrates the role of NGOs and community-based initiatives in addressing educational disparities and promoting social development. The success of Building Blocks highlights the importance of early childhood education and the potential of CSR to create positive social change. Important Facts Founding Year: 2004 Number of Schools: 10 Children Served: Over 1,300 Key Supporter: Megumi , a Japanese woman Corporate Support: Boeing provided a significant CSR grant Sustainability: Sustained through individual donors and corporate CSR support