Hyderabad, June 17, 2025… Lodge Keys No. 297, a primary unit of the globally respected 300+ year-old Freemasonry fraternity, is organising a panel discussion titled “How to Raise Funds for a Charity or Cause?”, aimed at empowering NGOs, social workers, and philanthropic individuals with practical fundraising insights and inspiration. The panel discussion is being organised in line with the Lodge Keys Community Outreach Program –CPR AMBASSADORS (planned in association with GVK Green Health Services), to train 1000 People (mostly first responders) in CPR and make them CPR Ambassadors
A panel discussion on the subject is the first of its kind, and it is the need of the hour. The Panel discussion is planned in the interest of the public and societal needs. And to build better communities through service and solidarity. It will be held on June 21st at 5 pm at Hyderabad Vyshya Youth Association Bhavan, 2nd Floor, Vasavi Seva Kendram (Backside Telephone Bhavan), Lakdikapul, Hyderabad.
A discussion on a subject like ‘Fund Raising for NGOs’ is not just relevant — it’s urgently needed in today’s climate, where many impactful initiatives struggle not due to lack of vision, but due to lack of funds.
India’s NGOs are at a funding crossroads. We have over 3 million NGOs in our country, but less than 10% receive consistent funding. Many do extraordinary work in education, health, gender rights, and climate action, but fail to sustain their impact due to poor fundraising strategies.
The Donor behaviour is also changing. Modern donors — whether individuals or corporations — expect transparency, storytelling, digital presence, and results. Traditional “appeal-based” fundraising alone is no longer effective. NGOs must learn how to adapt to new-age giving.
One of the panellists of the panel discussion will be Vivekananda Arya, one of the founders of The Teachers’ Self Care Team (TSCT), who shot into national fame for their initiative of just contributing ₹16 each they managed to raise Rs 50 lakh for their deseased colleague and touched the lives of 276 grief-stricken families who have together received assistance of over Rs 109 crore.
Changemakers like Vivekananda Arya, who started with just ₹16 and created a ₹50 lakh support model, prove that money follows mission when people are engaged emotionally and collectively. The panel highlights such grassroots strategies to inspire others.
Unlike conferences where leaders speak at the audience, this panel is designed to equip attendees with real fundraising tools — from crowdfunding basics to building donor networks and writing effective appeals.
This event is not just for big NGOs. It’s also for a school principal running a weekend feeding program, a student trying to raise money for period kits and a colony resident helping a local dog shelter. This panel will democratize fundraising knowledge.
NGO Leaders & Founders, Social Entrepreneurs & CSR Heads, Youth Volunteers & Students, Community Leaders & Religious Institutions, Corporate Philanthropists & Donor Networks, people in the social impact space will find it valuable.
“Money is not the problem. Alignment is.” People will give when they believe in the cause, trust the steward, and see the story. This panel helps bridge heart, head, and hand — connecting intention with implementation.
The panel will be moderated by Prof. Satya Kiran, Vice President of EThames College, UNICEF Young Professionals Program (2003) alumnus, and Curator of TEDx (AGI), known for his impactful engagements in academia and social innovation.
The other panellists include Mr. Suresh Reddy, Founder Trustee, Sparsh Hospice; Rajesh Vetcha, Founder, Mentor, Hyderabad Runners Society, leaders in the social impact domain, as well as the leadership of well-known voluntary bodies.
The event is open to all NGOs, philanthropic individuals, and changemakers. Entry is free of cost. However, the organisers expect participants to confirm their participation via mobile: 9848042020, to facilitate effective arrangements.
“It’s not just the rich who can give, the panel unlocks secrets of middle-class philanthropy, said D. Ramchandram, the project lead.
The various NGOs, Lions, Rotary, Jaycees, and other non-profit organisations, as well as philanthropic individuals, are welcome to join
This initiative is being supported by: SVAG PeT Homes, Cross Borders, Vasavi Club Buddhapurnima, Rotary Club of Hyderabad East, Lions Dist 320 D, Association of Alliance Clubs International—District 200 Hyderabad.
The panel aims to offer hands-on guidance, real-life stories, and collaborative opportunities for those who believe in the power of giving and collective action. From traditional donor outreach to digital campaigns and community mobilisation, the discussion will provide actionable strategies for today’s fundraisers.