In a landmark development for Indian para-sports, the Wheeling Happiness Foundation (WHF) is proud to announce the ongoing impact and execution of its transformative Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) partnership with Asset Care & Reconstruction Enterprise (ACRE). This groundbreaking alliance, signed some months ago, is now in full swing, funding and implementing WHF's flagship initiative, "Shaping Future Paralympic Shooting Champions," which aims to establish a robust and inclusive ecosystem for para-shooting in India.
This partnership, which officially secured its funding some months prior, marks a significant stride in fostering talent and promoting accessibility in sports for persons with disabilities. The funds successfully mobilized through this collaboration are now directly fueling the comprehensive "Shaping Future Paralympic Shooting Champions" program.
Wheeling Happiness Foundation extends its sincere gratitude to Mohd Shariq Malik and CSR Committee from the ACRE CSR team for their incredible vision, unwavering commitment, and instrumental role in bringing this dream to fruition. Their dedication underscores a profound belief in the potential of India's para-athletes. The foundation also proudly acknowledges the vital support and synergy facilitated by Kriti Makhija and the Rotary Club of Delhi South, a premier club in District 3011 under the aegis of Rotary International.
"The signing of this partnership with ACRE some months ago was a monumental step forward, and we are thrilled with the progress we're already making in our mission to empower individuals with disabilities through sports," said Dr. Deepa Malik, Founder, Wheeling Happiness Foundation, India's first woman Paralympic medalist and Padma Shri awardee. "It embodies our motto, 'Ability Beyond Disability,' allowing us to identify, nurture, and elevate para-shooting talent from the grassroots. With ACRE's unwavering support, we are not just building champions; we are building a more inclusive India, strengthening our Paralympic legacy, and fostering national pride on the global stage. This collaboration is proving to be a game-changer for countless aspiring para-shooters."
Mohd Shariq Malik, from the ACRE CSR team, shared his enthusiasm for the initiative: "At ACRE, we are deeply committed to social responsibility and empowering communities. The 'Shaping Future Paralympic Shooting Champions' program resonated perfectly with our values from the outset, and we are delighted to see the tangible progress since we formalized our partnership some months ago. We are incredibly proud to collaborate with the Wheeling Happiness Foundation and the Para Shooting Association of India to support these inspiring athletes. We believe in their potential to bring glory to our nation and are dedicated to providing them with the resources they need to succeed."
Turning Vision into Action
With funds effectively deployed, Wheeling Happiness Foundation continues to move forward alongside its technical implementing partner, the Para Shooting Association of India (PSAI), the national governing body for para-shooting. Together with PSAI Chairperson Dronacharya Awardee Mr. JP Nautiyal, they are committed to building a sustainable, inclusive grassroots ecosystem that will:
- Scout and Train 300+ New Para-Shooters nationwide: This intensive program will identify and ignite raw talent across India, providing them with structured training and opportunities.
- Provide Advanced Equipment & Infrastructure: Crucial resources, including adaptive wheelchairs, specialized shooting tables, and accessible training hubs, will be procured to ensure athletes have world-class facilities.
- Certify 30 National Coaches and 15 Classifiers/Referees: Under World Shooting Para Sports (WSPS) standards, this initiative will significantly elevate India's technical expertise in para-shooting.
- Champion Gender Equity: A core focus will be ensuring that at least 30% of all supported athletes are women, promoting equal opportunities and representation in the sport.
This partnership is set to create a lasting impact, not only by producing world-class athletes but also by fostering an environment of empowerment, inclusion, and national pride.
