Our History
1981-1985
The Beginning
In 1981, Sukumaran founded Annai Children's Home in Kanyakumari, Southern India. Having experienced poverty and spent part of his childhood in an orphanage, he was deeply committed to helping underprivileged children. To support his mission, he sought donations from foreign travelers visiting the region’s popular tourist spots. During this time, he met Jörg Wolfer from Germany, who was exploring India. Inspired by Sukumaran’s work, Jörg visited Annai Home and stayed for three months. After returning to Germany, he teamed up with Heidi Leidig to establish ASA e.V. in 1983, an organization dedicated to supporting Sukumaran’s vision. By 1985, ASA e.V. was officially recognized as a non-profit organization. For over 40 years, ASA e.V. has been devoted to sustaining and growing this life-changing project in India.
1986 - 1997
Building Self-Sufficiency
From the very beginning, ASA e.V. has been a cornerstone in supporting the activities of Annai Children's Home (ACH) in India. In 1986, a small printing press was established in Kanyakumari, serving as both a self-help initiative and a training center for vocational skills, marking a significant step forward. That same year, ACH acquired a piece of land in Aramboly and gradually developed the necessary infrastructure, enabling the project to relocate to its own premises. This move allowed for agricultural activities to flourish, enabling the production of their own food and reducing reliance on external sources. It also created valuable jobs and training opportunities for the local community.
A major milestone in these efforts was the construction of a well, which provided essential water for agriculture. Over time, livestock was introduced, and a biogas installation was built to power the kitchen, further advancing the project's sustainability and self-sufficiency.
1997 - 2005
Annai Hospital
In 1997, ASA e.V. took a significant step toward improving healthcare access by deciding to establish an outpatient village hospital. This initiative was made possible through collaboration with the local panchayat and the villagers, ensuring the project was deeply rooted in community involvement. The hospital, along with free medical camps held twice a year, was warmly welcomed and appreciated by the local population, addressing a critical need for accessible medical care.
In partnership with our Indian collaborators, a decision was made to construct a new village hospital in Layam. The villagers contributed by providing the land and labor for the construction, while ASA e.V. committed to funding the hospital building and supplying essential equipment. This joint effort symbolized a strong partnership between the community and ASA e.V.
The new hospital officially opened its doors in September 2005, marking a milestone in delivering sustainable healthcare solutions to the region.
2015 - Current
Transformation to Children's Upliftment Center - CUC
In response to new legal regulations for children's homes in India, Annai Seva Ashram transitioned to a day care center in August 2015. This shift ensures that disadvantaged children and youth from Aramboly and surrounding areas continue to receive essential schooling, educational support, and basic care, alongside assistance for their families. After school, children visit the center for learning support, while Saturdays and school vacations offer a range of engaging leisure activities. Furthermore, college scholarships remain a key focus, providing vital opportunities for higher education and a brighter future.
2023 - Current
Women's Development Project - WDP
Lavanya, the daughter of Sukumaran, founded the Women’s Development Program (WDP), drawing inspiration from the community living her parents established at the ASA campus, where she was born and raised. With a Bachelor's Degree in Textile Engineering and extensive experience in textile design and manufacturing, she developed a 4-month traineeship program offering women free training in tailoring skills.
This initiative empowers economically disadvantaged women by equipping them with a valuable skill, enabling them to achieve greater financial independence. ASA e.V. has been a key supporter of the project, providing sewing machines and funding the teacher's salary, ensuring the program's long-term success and sustainability.
2024
New Leadership for ASA e.V. After 40 Years
After 40 years of dedicated leadership, Jörg Wolfer and Heidi Leidig have handed over the board of ASA e.V. to the next generation. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for their incredible work over the past four decades and warmly welcome the new ASA e.V. board: Larissa Kipp (1st Chairperson), Rebekka Leuthner (2nd Chairperson), Laura Hauser and Sunil Sukumaran.
