Retirement is often seen as a time to relax and enjoy life after years of hard work. But for Deepak and Manjari Buch, retirement became an opportunity to do something truly special. Instead of slowing down, the couple decided to dedicate their time to a cause that mattered deeply to them: empowering underprivileged children through education. In doing so, they have not only changed the lives of many young students but also found new joy and purpose in their own lives.
The Beginning of a Dream
It all started in 2005, when Deepak Buch retired from his job at the Gujarat State Finance Corporation. He and his wife Manjari, a homemaker, wanted to do something meaningful with their time. They began by teaching five children from low-income families in their home in Ahmedabad. These were children of domestic workers and unskilled laborers, many of whom were the first in their families to go to school. Deepak and Manjari took it upon themselves to guide these children, with no teaching experience but plenty of love and passion for the cause.
What began as a small effort soon grew, and today, they teach up to 200 children every day, offering free coaching from Classes 3 to 10. Their mission has become more than just teaching—it’s about creating opportunities, building confidence, and shaping futures.
A Community Effort: Building a Support Network
The Buchs' efforts didn’t go unnoticed. Over time, the community rallied behind them. A local woman offers drawing and crafting classes, while a faculty member from IIM Ahmedabad helps teach life skills. A retired ISRO scientist volunteers his time to teach computer science. The Buchs even ensure that their senior students get personality development workshops and internships, providing them with essential skills for the future.
The Buchs have also kept their approach simple and transparent. They don't run a formal NGO, and they avoid handling money. Instead, they rely on private donations for any support their students may need. This clear and honest approach has earned them the trust of the community and allowed them to continue making a big impact, all while maintaining their genuine love for teaching.
The Beginning of a Dream
It all started in 2005, when Deepak Buch retired from his job at the Gujarat State Finance Corporation. He and his wife Manjari, a homemaker, wanted to do something meaningful with their time. They began by teaching five children from low-income families in their home in Ahmedabad. These were children of domestic workers and unskilled laborers, many of whom were the first in their families to go to school. Deepak and Manjari took it upon themselves to guide these children, with no teaching experience but plenty of love and passion for the cause.
What began as a small effort soon grew, and today, they teach up to 200 children every day, offering free coaching from Classes 3 to 10. Their mission has become more than just teaching—it’s about creating opportunities, building confidence, and shaping futures.
A Community Effort: Building a Support Network
The Buchs' efforts didn’t go unnoticed. Over time, the community rallied behind them. A local woman offers drawing and crafting classes, while a faculty member from IIM Ahmedabad helps teach life skills. A retired ISRO scientist volunteers his time to teach computer science. The Buchs even ensure that their senior students get personality development workshops and internships, providing them with essential skills for the future.
The Buchs have also kept their approach simple and transparent. They don't run a formal NGO, and they avoid handling money. Instead, they rely on private donations for any support their students may need. This clear and honest approach has earned them the trust of the community and allowed them to continue making a big impact, all while maintaining their genuine love for teaching.
Changing Lives, One Student at a Time
The success stories of their students speak volumes. One such student, Monika Bahusar, the daughter of a flower vendor, went on to become a qualified engineer thanks to the Buchs’ guidance. Stories like Monika’s are what keep the Buchs going, and they are a reminder that even small efforts can lead to big changes in people’s lives.
Deepak and Manjari’s work is a beautiful reminder that retirement doesn’t have to be a time of rest and quiet. Instead, it can be a second chance to make a real difference in the world. “If you have the time, use it to help others,” says Manjari. “The satisfaction you get from changing someone’s life is unmatched.”
A Path to Purpose for Everyone
Like Deepak and Manjari, many people are finding ways to make a difference later in life. If you’re looking for ways to stay engaged and find purpose, platforms such as Sukoon Unlimited can offer inspiration and ideas for meaningful activities. Sukoon Unlimited is a platform created by seniors, for seniors, dedicated to helping older adults find ways to stay active, connected, and involved in their communities. Whether it's volunteering, learning new skills, or sharing wisdom, Sukoon Unlimited encourages seniors to rediscover their sense of purpose and live fulfilling lives. Just as the Buchs have shown, it’s never too late to begin a journey of giving back.
The success stories of their students speak volumes. One such student, Monika Bahusar, the daughter of a flower vendor, went on to become a qualified engineer thanks to the Buchs’ guidance. Stories like Monika’s are what keep the Buchs going, and they are a reminder that even small efforts can lead to big changes in people’s lives.
Deepak and Manjari’s work is a beautiful reminder that retirement doesn’t have to be a time of rest and quiet. Instead, it can be a second chance to make a real difference in the world. “If you have the time, use it to help others,” says Manjari. “The satisfaction you get from changing someone’s life is unmatched.”
A Path to Purpose for Everyone
Like Deepak and Manjari, many people are finding ways to make a difference later in life. If you’re looking for ways to stay engaged and find purpose, platforms such as Sukoon Unlimited can offer inspiration and ideas for meaningful activities. Sukoon Unlimited is a platform created by seniors, for seniors, dedicated to helping older adults find ways to stay active, connected, and involved in their communities. Whether it's volunteering, learning new skills, or sharing wisdom, Sukoon Unlimited encourages seniors to rediscover their sense of purpose and live fulfilling lives. Just as the Buchs have shown, it’s never too late to begin a journey of giving back.
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