Volunteering For Baal Dan
"Growing up I have always learned that we must appreciate what we have and give as much as we can to people who are less fortunate than us. Tanya and I were childhood friends, and reconnected again a few years ago. I was touched by the work Tanya was doing in India for children, and when she started Baal Dan Charities I knew that I wanted help her to raise funds and be part of Baal Dan.

During this trip, Tanya and I met with Sunil Lucas, a filmmaker in Calcutta who specializes in documenting social issues. Sunil introduced us to Brother Xavier who runs "New Life New Hope", a home for 200 children from the "red light" areas in Calcutta.

I was deeply affected when I met the kids and saw that all they wanted was love and affection. The little girls just wanted to hold our hands and be hugged and kissed... The afternoon I spent there was incredible and I realized that in life we should not take anything for granted at all.

When I handed out cookies and snacks to the children, it was simply amazing... the shine in the eyes of the kids made me smile... and I took back memories from that afternoon that will always remain with me."

About Aparna Lal
Aparna Lal is 28 years old and is currently working with National Bank of Dubai in The Private Office as an Operations Manager. She has been with the bank for over 3 years, and prior to that was with Credit Suisse. Aparna has also lived in Boston for two years. Aparna went to Bryant College in Rhode Island where she graduated with a major in Finance and minor in Communications in 2000.