Roots and Wings Bangalore 2026 (R&WB-2026
The Shimogha Multipurpose Social Service Society (SMSSS) organized a get-together titled Roots and Wings Bangalore 2026 (R&WB-2026) brought together present and former beneficiaries of the ICDP and UNNATHI who are working and studying in Bangalore, Tumkur and Mysore. The eventheld at St Joseph’s University, Auditorium, Bengaluru.
After the refreshment the program commenced with a prayer song, followed by action songs that created a lively and engaging atmosphere. Subsequently, all the beneficiaries introduced themselves and shared their personal testimonies on how the ICDP and Unnathiprograms had positively influenced their lives. They also fondly recalled their experiences and memorable moments from the various camps organized under these programs.
Addressing the gathering, Fr. Pius D'Souza, Director of SMSSS, emphasised the values of gratitude, service, and social responsibilities. Fr. Pius then shared the future plans and upcoming projects of SMSSS and explained how the beneficiaries could actively contribute to the organization's initiatives. The beneficiaries responded with overwhelming enthusiasm and unanimously expressed their willingness to remain actively associated with SMSSS. Many pledged to serve the organisation through volunteer initiatives, sponsor the education of deserving students, contribute financially to its mission, organise awareness programmes, and mentor and motivate current beneficiaries. To strengthen future engagement, the participants also formed a volunteer leadership group named CORE ICDP Beneficiaries, which will coordinate and support similar programmes and community initiatives in the years to come.
The gathering was further enriched by the presence of Fr. Victor, Vice Chancellorof St. Joseph's University, who addressed the participants and shared valuable insights and words of encouragement.Fr. Victor also informed about the different courses and scholarship to avail and then distributed a Samruddi pouch to each participant as a token of love.The event also included a belated celebration of Fr. Pius's birthday, which was marked with a cake-cutting ceremony.Following the group photo, everyone enjoyed a delicious lunch.
The programme ended with a Holy Eucharistic Mass of thanksgiving for beneficiaries, staff and prayers for God’s blessings on SMSSS.The reunion ended on a joyful note, strengthening the bond between beneficiaries and SMSSS and inspiring continued collaboration and service.Over high tea, the programme was adjourned at 4:30 PM.