Community collection drives for non-profit organisations mean bags of clothes, toys and other usable items kept at a common point before they are taken in a van/ truck. Neela Gangadharan, a resident of DLF Garden City, a gated community in Semmancherry, added a creative touch to such a drive conducted recently for Goonj as part of Daan Utsav and Deepavali.

Surrounded with a large collection of books at home, she set up a small book corner during the collection drive for residents to take books home. The rest would be taken by Goonj at the end of the day.

The bags for Goonj were dropped at the association office. So Neela arranged them in a manner that those coming to the room could not miss the display of books, each announcing its title.

“The drive was an opportunity to display the collection of books we had gathered over the decades and see if someone else was interested in reading them,” says Neela adding that 100-odd books across genres were arranged.

She turned down the idea of giving the books to libraries as many did not have the space to stock them.

Ahead of the drive, she sent out a message in the women’s group. Neela says she did not really monitor to see who took the book and how many were taken.

The Goonj team is happy with the idea of a resident turning the campaign into a space not just for giving, but also for growing together through stories and learning.

Those who came to contribute clothes and toys were seen pausing to pick up a book — a gentle reminder that knowledge, too, is a form of sharing, says a note by Goonj.

Last year, Goonj witnessed the volunteering spirit through Ram, who in his 60s dedicated his time and energy to organise collection campaigns in nearby apartments.

“From Mr. Ram’s enthusiastic efforts to Ms. Neela’s thoughtful idea, the joy of sharing continues to evolve in new and inspiring ways. It remind us that Daan Utsav is not just about giving materials, but about creating moments of togetherness — where generosity, creativity, and community spirit come alive,” adds the note.

Published – October 18, 2025 09:10 pm IST