Support differently abled individuals at Diya through Carnatic Music

Carnatic music students from South Florida come together to support Diya in its wonderful journey to equip differently abled individuals to lead a regular life! We sincerely we can make a difference to their life!

Diya Foundation was born out of the need to create a safe environment where intellectually challenged adults with or without a basic school program could be prepared to meet life’s challenges through training and employment.

Maria Santamaria, a special educator, began this venture with 3 intellectually challenged trainees and one staff. Supported by family and friends and an initial investment of Rs. 3000/- Diya Foundation was registered in Bangalore, Karnataka, as a charitable Trust in March 1999. Over the years, nearly a 100 differently abled people and their families have benefitted from Diya’s training program.

In its twentieth year Diya Foundation stands as a model for training and employment of people with special needs, preparing them with job skills, daily living skills and the ability to be self-dependent for the future.

Currently 50 intellectually challenged adults avail Diya’s training, Sheltered employment and Supported employment facilities, supported by a staff team of twelve, five of whom are differently abled. Diya operates out of rented premises and is forced to move every 3 – 5 years. Trainees are provided with transportation at subsidized rates, receive support to access government schemes like pension and insurance and opportunities to engage in different activities within and outside Diya. 

Diya's Vision 

To see individuals with a disability and their families alive with dignity and pride in the present; and operating with love, respect and confidence, in the future.

Diya's Mission

To enrich the quality of life of differently abled adults by training them in vocational skills and empowering them to live a fulfilling and productive life;

To create awareness in society and engage in programmes that uphold and recognize the essential dignity and humanity of differently abled individuals.