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The webinar on Navigating Gender and Sexual Identities in the Context of Family-Based Care was organized by IACN (India Alternative Care Network) on 26th March. The session provided valuable insights into the importance of inclusive care for children, particularly those with diverse gender identities, emphasizing family and community-based support rather than institutional care. The moderator highlighted that children should not be confined to institutional settings (CCIs) and should instead be nurtured within families and communities that provide holistic support and emotional stability. Dr. Sangeeta spoke about the significance of recognizing gender diversity, explaining that gender identity is distinct from sexual identity. She emphasized that identities are innate and should be accepted rather than forced into societal norms. Ms. Rajkumar shared her personal experiences of discrimination, including the challenges she faced while staying in a boys' hostel, where she was pressured to conform to male norms. She spoke about the bullying and exclusion she endured and stressed the need for institutions to foster inclusivity. She urged CCIs and schools to adopt supportive approaches rather than alienating children based on their gender expression. Mr. Dit underscored the importance of belongingness, stating that institutional care should always be the last resort. He emphasized the need for greater societal awareness regarding the struggles transgender individuals face. Many parents, unable to understand their child’s gender expression, often send them to CCIs instead of providing the necessary emotional and social support at home. This webinar was an enlightening experience, reinforcing the need for inclusive policies and social change to ensure the dignity and well-being of all children, regardless of their gender identity. Our organization remains committed to advocating for family and community-based care models that respect and support every child's individuality.

Marthandam Integrated Development Society (MIDS) actively participated in the Asia Regional Webinar – "Water for Future", organized by CIDAL of Caritas India in association with Caritas Asia to commemorate World Water Day 2025. The theme for this year was "Save Glaciers," emphasizing the urgent need to protect water ecosystems for future generations. Rev. Fr. Dr. Jerome, Director, MIDS, and Mr. Shabin S, Coordinator, MIDS, represented MIDS in this significant discussion, alongside other experts and policymakers, to address the pressing concerns related to water conservation, climate change, and sustainable water management. The webinar stressed that water is not just a resource but the essence of life itself. It is critical to ensure responsible management to secure drinking water and other water needs for the future. One of the major concerns discussed was the alarming rate of glacier melting, which has led to rising sea levels and increased climate stress. Experts highlighted the need for reducing carbon footprints and establishing community-based response systems to mitigate the impact of climate change on glaciers. Every individual and organization, including NGOs, should take proactive steps, even on a small scale, to contribute toward water conservation. The speakers also emphasized that water is increasingly in demand across countries, making it as valuable as "liquid gold." However, instead of treating it as a commodity, it should be recognized as a fundamental right. A notable example shared during the webinar was how New Zealand has legally recognized a river as a living entity and implemented policies to protect it. The discussion highlighted that the water crisis is not merely a technical issue but also a political challenge, with privatization and commercial interests threatening global water security. Governments, organizations, and communities must work together to preserve and conserve water resources responsibly, preventing water wars. The webinar provided critical insights into the global water crisis, with experts reminding that only 3% of the world's water is freshwater, and most of it comes from glaciers. Water pollution caused by plastic waste, harmful agricultural practices, and industrial contamination is worsening the situation. The conversation underscored that we must act collectively today to determine the water security of the future. Another key focus was on groundwater conservation and sustainable water management. Experts discussed the importance of understanding local geology and reviving traditional water conservation methods. Over-extraction of groundwater has led to depletion, necessitating sustainable approaches such as tree planting, water-based landscaping, rainwater harvesting, and groundwater recharge systems. Recycling and reusing water, especially in urban areas, were also suggested as crucial strategies to ensure long-term sustainability. Dr. Haridas V.R. shared successful case studies from different parts of India, showcasing models for rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, and community-driven conservation projects. He demonstrated how some regions have effectively utilized rainwater collection systems to meet their drinking water and irrigation needs. The webinar also highlighted that India receives enough rainfall annually to meet water demands, but the real challenge lies in preserving water quality. Rising concerns over microplastic contamination and the excessive use of chemicals in agriculture were discussed, with experts urging stricter policies to regulate harmful practices affecting water safety. The event concluded with a call to action, emphasizing that water conservation is a shared responsibility. Some key takeaways included the adoption of rainwater harvesting, the revival of traditional conservation methods, reducing carbon footprints to slow glacier melting, and advocating for stronger policies to protect water resources. The webinar reinforced that water security is not just a government concern but a collective duty that requires immediate and sustained action. MIDS remains committed to implementing water conservation initiatives, promoting awareness, and actively working toward sustainable water management. This webinar served as an invaluable platform to exchange ideas, learn from successful conservation models, and inspire communities to take urgent action to safeguard water for the future.

"Today and every day, we celebrate the selfless work of social workers around the world! Thank you for your tireless efforts to create a more just and equitable society. #WorldSocialWorkDay #SocialWorkMatters"

On October 24th and 25th, 2024, Sr. Agatha DSS, Mrs. Reena, and Mrs. Sheeja attended a two-day training program on "Community Engagement" at the Karl Kubel Institute (a charitable institute founded by Mr. Karl Kubel from Germany in 1957) in Anaikatti, Coimbatore. The training was conducted by Dr. Uma Shanker, a dynamic and inspiring trainer. During the two days, Dr. Uma Shanker motivated us to pursue our social service with utmost dedication and commitment. We learned new insights that will be valuable for our work with MIDS. We understood that, as organizers, we must be with the group, like the group, and work for the group, accepting them as they are. Patience, love, and genuine concern are essential in our interactions. It is our responsibility to support individuals in achieving independence and contribute to the consistent socio-economic development of their families. This training enhanced our understanding of systematic leadership, group facilitation, and effective communication within community programs. We are grateful to God Almighty and extend our heartfelt thanks to Rev. Fr. Dr. Jerome C, the Director of MIDS, for this wonderful opportunity.

On October 28th and 29th, 2024, a seminar on "Psychotherapy Approaches for Recovery from Alcohol Addiction" was conducted by the Tamil Nadu Addiction Treatment Providers Network in collaboration with Puthuvasantham Addiction Treatment Ministry. Held at the Puthuvasantham De-addiction Centre in Tholayavattam, the event brought together by the team to discuss the latest approaches in addiction recovery. Seven staff members from Marthandam Integrated Development Society (MIDS) attended, gaining invaluable insights into effective psychotherapy techniques for addiction recovery. The seminar included six sessions led by experts in addiction treatment. Rev. Dr. S. Alwin Mathan Raj opened with a session on understanding and addressing emotional disabilities, exploring symptoms, manifestations, and psychotherapeutic interventions. Rev. Fr. Maria Martin followed with an in-depth analysis of personality disorders, emphasizing holistic healing that integrates body, mind, and spirit. Rev. Dr. Maria William then covered the role of forgiveness in relationships, drawing on the psychosocial models of Worthington and Enright. Rev. Dr. Stephen's session focused on therapeutic counseling, mental health support, medical assistance, relapse prevention, and family support systems. The following day, Rev. Dr. Francis Xavier Nelson led a session on living with clarity and purpose under the guidance of a higher power, encouraging reflection on both current and future psychological approaches to addiction treatment. At the conclusion of the seminar, participants, including the MIDS team, were awarded certificates in recognition of their commitment to advancing addiction recovery. Rev. Dr. Francis Xavier Nelson extended a vote of thanks, bringing the seminar to a close.

Scaling Resilience for Future Impacts: MIDS Participates in Child-Centered Disaster Risk Reduction Webinar On October 14, 2024, the Marthandam Integrated Development Society (MIDS) took part in a webinar organized by Caritas India in observance of the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction. The event, titled "Scaling Resilience for Future Impacts," brought together 139 participants, including climate change experts and disaster specialists from India and abroad. This year's focus, The Role of Education in Protecting and Empowering Children, highlighted the importance of teaching children about disaster preparedness and response. Children and youth, being highly vulnerable during disasters, must be educated according to their age and capacity to better protect themselves and their communities. Speakers emphasized the need for community-based disaster reduction programs, child-friendly spaces, and multistakeholder engagement, encouraging schools, local governments, NGOs, and volunteers to play an active role. MIDS representatives reinforced their organization's commitment to protecting children and fostering community resilience through education, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 17. As the world confronts a growing climate emergency, child-centered approaches remain essential to saving lives and livelihoods.