Monday, October 1, 2018

The extra mile and a run for a cause


In 2008, I ran a Marathon to support and raise money for a school for underprivileged children in my home state of Assam in India. It was a life changing experience - the practice and the preparation for the run, going through the hurdle, focusing and reaching the finishing line , the race taught how to bring one's best self to every facet of life. The marathon and the successful fund raising campaign also showed me how this country America stands for those in need , how much can we do for poor and destitute.
This year I am running again for a school for differently-abled abandoned/orphaned children called ‘Topoban’. The founder Kumud Kalita is a sincere and upright man who is doing everything he can in his capacity to help these children lead fulfilling lives. I met him in person this year when I was visiting India, witnessed some of these children performing on stage and realized how he is turning their disability to ability.  

The residential school building is a two story structure without an elevator. Every day is a struggle for these children in wheelchair who needed to be lifted by others. I am running to raise money for construction of a lift, an electrical elevator which will greatly help these children.
I am running 50 KM this year at Dallas, BMW Ultra Marathon and appealing you to a sponsor for a mile at $100 each. We will acknowledge each of you and will provide Tax exempt receipt and utilization through Assam Foundation of North America. 
It’s going to be a grueling race spreading across multiple cities, but when I imagine the cheerful faces of these children, I get motivated to run those extra miles. I am starting from zero, but I am sure I will reach my goal of 50 sponsors with all of your support.
Today, on this auspicious occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, I appeal you to support this cause, let’s all of us together cheer these children and change someone’s life for the better. You can contribution online at



Thanks and God bless
Ankur Bora