JOSH
Project JOSH – Empowering Young Minds for a Brighter Future
SUMMARY
Project JOSH, a flagship initiative by Ladli Foundation Trust, is dedicated to diverting at-risk youth, particularly young boys and juveniles, from substance abuse and criminal activities. In collaboration with Delhi Police, NISD, and the Ministry of Social Justice, Project JOSH uses structured sports, fitness, dance, and mental health activities to engage these individuals positively. Through career counseling, motivational sessions, and rewards-based programs, JOSH equips these young minds with tools for personal growth and resilience, aiming to transform them into responsible and contributing members of society.
CAUSE
Substance abuse and criminal activity have surged among young boys, especially those residing in Delhi’s underserved slum areas. The lack of access to productive recreational opportunities, coupled with the appeal of quick escapes through substance use, places these young boys at significant risk. The situation is compounded by the dark hours, when the prevalence of antisocial activities heightens. Recognizing the critical need for timely intervention, Project JOSH was created to offer healthy, engaging alternatives through sports, dance, and yoga, channels that naturally attract individuals across age groups. These activities have proven scientifically effective, releasing dopamine and endorphins that help reduce stress and anxiety, instilling positivity, and encouraging relaxation.
OUR ACTION
Ladli Foundation Trust, has implemented Project JOSH across five districts in Delhi. By identifying the right candidates, the program brings at-risk young boys into an environment that emphasizes fitness, structure, and positive reinforcement. Key activities include :
Sports, Dance, and Yoga Sessions : Offering physical activities that boost both mental and physical well-being. Reward-based tournaments are designed to keep participants motivated and committed.
Nutritional Support : Providing nutritious snacks, like bananas, to support the physical health and stamina of participants.
Motivational and Mental Health Workshops : Carefully designed counseling sessions by renowned personalities and mental health experts help youth address their challenges, building resilience.
Career Counseling and Life Skills Training : Focused workshops introduce participants to various skill-building opportunities, guiding them toward productive careers and positive life paths.
Through Project JOSH, participants undergo intensive physical training and are motivated to engage in healthier lifestyles that steer them away from substance use. The program also highlights the importance of reducing access to addictive substances, as it simultaneously empowers these young individuals with the knowledge, discipline, and support they need to thrive.
IMPACT
Since its inception, Project JOSH has seen substantial success :
2019 : Engaged over 4,000 boys in Dakshinpuri, South Delhi, through a 4-month program filled with sports, counseling, and motivational sessions. Many participants overcame addiction, and several secured employment opportunities through Delhi Police’s YUVA initiative.
2021 : Expanded to include 3,000 boys across Delhi, with 1,057 participants successfully rehabilitated. These youth developed skills, found job placements, and were supported by national missions like Nasha Mukt Bharat and Skill India.
Project JOSH continues to strengthen communities by transforming at-risk youth into valuable contributors. With each boy who steps away from drugs and antisocial behaviors, a new potential is unlocked, and our vision of creating a society filled with empowered, resilient, and socially responsible individuals moves closer to reality.
