Om ABODE traces its roots to Om Creations Trust, a pioneering Mumbai-based non-profit organisation that has been engaged in channeling the inherent abilities of mentally challenged young adults in productive ways.
Om Creations came into being as the culmination of Special Educator, Dr. Radhike Khanna's doctoral thesis, that emphasized the role of art and creativity as crucial aspects in maximizing the potential of differently abled students.
Starting small – with 4 young adults and an offering of 15 art products – from the residence of one of the founder trustees, Mrs. Durga Jain, and ably supported by other parent-trustees, today, nearly 30 years later, Om Creations has come a long way. Presently, it operates out of two centres in South Mumbai, gainfully employing 66 young adults and managing a robust and fast-growing portfolio of over 200 products in its Arts section and over 125 products in its Culinary section.
Emphasis on product design and investment in quality was stressed upon early on, and though sales were modest in the early years, the beneficiaries were paid a monthly stipend right from the start. Thus enabling them to earn not just a sustainable livelihood but also steering them towards leading an independent and meaningful life.
A beacon of hope and inspiration, the Om Creations 'model' – that fluidly synthesizes creativity and technology – has been successfully adapted and implemented by NGOs around the globe. Over time, Om Creations has also widened its scope – from working with the mentally challenged to including a vast spectrum of diverse learners. It has carved a unique niche for itself – operating as an integral social enterprise rooted in the Indian ethos with a culture and value system that has the potential to transform individuals.
