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Finding Balance in Life Through Needlework – The Island

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Tucked away in the tranquil outskirts of Colombo lies a vibrant community that embodies the essence of family-style living—the SOS Children’s Village in Piliyandala. This is not just an orphanage; it is a sanctuary where love, stability, and hope flourish, specifically designed for children who have lost parental care. Founded in 1981, under the visionary guidance of Austrian philanthropist Hermann Gmeiner, the village provides a nurturing home for hundreds of children, helping them find a new lease on life autonomously and confidently.

At the heart of SOS Piliyandala is the overriding philosophy that emphasizes a family-oriented structure. Each child resides in a warm home with an SOS mother—an essential figure who offers not just care and supervision but unconditional love and emotional support. These children find siblings not by blood but through shared meals, laughter, and dreams. Their homes are designed to echo the attentiveness and warmth found in any typical family, fostering a sense of belonging and stability.

During a recent visit to this village, it became evident that love is the dominant language spoken within its walls. This environment is neither characterized by charity nor sympathy; instead, it thrives on dignity, respect, and opportunities. Children learn to manage budgets, cook meals, and prepare for their academic and career aspirations with guidance from dedicated SOS staff members.

Life in Piliyandala begins each day with the hustle and bustle of breakfast as children shoulders their school bags, eager to begin their day. Verandas display neatly lined shoes, and small hands are busy in the gardens, reflecting a natural harmony that resembles that of any family household. Many children attend the Hermann Gmeiner School—a thriving institution that nurtures over a thousand students. Mornings in kindergarten ring with laughter while older youth engage in vocational training at a nearby center, checking off educational milestones that pave the path toward personal independence.

Dr. Hermann Gmeiner: visionary who believed every child deserves a loving family

Evenings at the village resonate with the joyful sounds of games played in courtyards, decorated rooms tell stories of cherished memories, and bedtime routine brings a peaceful close to the bustling day. This rhythmic lifestyle creates a safe haven where children can rediscover the essence of being a child.

The SOS Children’s Village in Piliyandala transcends being merely a place for children to reside; it is their cherished home. As children mature, they transition into youth facilities that prepare them for the responsibilities of adulthood, ensuring they are ready to embark on their independent journeys.

Over the years, this sanctuary has nurtured countless children, instilling in them the values of leadership and family. Many former residents have become community leaders and dedicated parents in their own right, further enriching the village’s legacy through their success stories—each a testament to the transformative power of love, education, and belonging.

Divakar Ratnadurai, the National Director of SOS Children’s Villages Sri Lanka, has dedicated 18 years of his life to this organization. His strategic initiatives focus on providing care, protection, and long-term support for children at risk of losing parental care across the country. With a background in financial management from Wesley College, his leadership has significantly broadened the organization’s reach and impact throughout Sri Lanka.

Q: Could you tell us about Dr. Hermann Gmeiner and his core philosophy?

A: Dr. Hermann Gmeiner was a visionary who believed passionately in providing every child a loving home and an SOS mother. His revolutionary idea emphasized community living where children grow up as a part of a family unit, ensuring they have the emotional and psychological support vital for their development.

Q: This year, there was a special celebration to mark the legacy of its founder, reflecting the values of the organization globally and in Sri Lanka?

A: The celebration featured active participation from SOS children and mothers, including programs such as blood donation drives and performances showcasing the talents of children. Various activities were organized to bring advocacy awareness as well as express gratitude towards the contributions made by Dr. Gmeiner.

Q: When did SOS Children’s Village begin operations in Sri Lanka, and how has Dr. Gmeiner’s holistic model adapted to benefit the children here?

A: Operations began in Sri Lanka in 1981, and we currently have six locations and 72 family homes. Programs are tailored to meet local socio-economic realities, emphasizing a long-term commitment to children until they become self-reliant. Each of our homes functions as a self-contained family unit, upholding Dr. Gmeiner’s values of education, health, and social support.

Q: What are some significant challenges faced by children at risk of losing parental care, and how does SOS Children’s Village address these?”

A: A major challenge includes a lack of access to quality education and dealing with psychological trauma. SOS Children’s Village provides a safe, nurturing environment and essential emotional support to ensure that children can overcome these hurdles and thrive.

Leadership behind the village

Q: What drives your motivation to be involved with SOS Children’s Village Sri Lanka, and what is your vision for the future?

A: My personal motivation stems from the desire to provide holistic care that goes beyond mere shelter. This involves ensuring access to quality education and vocational training, as well as emotional support, so children know they are not alone. My vision is to foster environments where every child feels loved and valued.

Q: How can individuals and organizations in Sri Lanka contribute to support SOS Children’s Villages?

A: Support can take many forms, including financial contributions, in-kind donations, sponsoring a child or family home, and raising awareness about child rights and the importance of family-like care.

Q: What are future plans for SOS CVSL?

A: Our future plans focus on expanding programs that will better support children and families throughout Sri Lanka. We aim to bolster accessibility to education and vocational training, while also advocating for child rights and building partnerships for sustainability in childcare and youth empowerment.

By Zanita Careem ✍️

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