Pune Based Connecting Trust Celebrates 19 Years In Mental Health Awareness And Suicide Prevention 

Pune, Maharashtra, 24 August 2024 – Connecting Trust celebrated its 19th Foundation Day on the evening of August 23, 2024, at the Royal Connaught Boat Club. The event marked nearly two decades of dedicated work in mental health and suicide prevention under the theme “Bridging the Gap: Volunteerism in Mental Health and Suicide Prevention.”

The celebration was graced by Manoj Patil, Additional Commissioner of Police, as the Chief Guest, and the founder of Connecting Trust, Arnavaz Damania, also attended the event. Pranita Madkaikar, the CEO of Connecting Trust, provided an overview of the organization’s programs and achievements.

The evening featured a panel discussion with prominent speakers including Sachin Chidambaran, President of Befrienders India; Dr. Jaya Rajagopalan, Principal In-charge of St. Mira’s College; Chetan Shetty, Chief Operating Officer of Extentia Information Technology; and Sandy Dias Andrade, Psychotherapist. The discussion was hosted by Amina Ajaney, an Advisory Board member.

The panelists shared their insights on volunteerism and its critical role in mental health and suicide prevention. Sachin Chidambaran emphasized that mental health issues have evolved into a social issue requiring collective responsibility, stating, “Volunteering is very important and the need of the hour. We don’t live by logic, but we like logic, hence it is important to express ourselves.” Dr. Jaya Rajagopalan stressed the importance of prevention over intervention, while Sandy Dias Andrade highlighted the significance of community support in mental health. Chetan Shetty discussed the benefits of allowing employees to engage in volunteering, noting that it fosters a positive work environment.

The event was attended by founding trustees, volunteers, funders, corporates, and representatives from various NGOs. Volunteers shared their personal experiences, reflecting the profound impact of their work. The evening concluded with a vote of thanks presented by founding trustee Matthew Mattam.

Founded by Arnavaz Damania in 2005, Connecting Trust has been a leading force in mental health and suicide prevention. With nearly two decades of service, the organization continues to support thousands of individuals in distress, upholding the belief that “Every Life Counts.”