When dreams take flight
It was an unforgettable day for 40 domestic and commercial helpers as they boarded a plane for the first time in their lives, a dream-come-true journey made possible by RC Greater Tezpur, RID 3240. The anticipation in the air was palpable as the workers stepped into the bustling airport in Tezpur. “All of them are helpers employed by our club members in our homes/offices. They were all awestruck as they walked into the airport and were totally speechless when they saw the aircraft on the tarmac,” says club president Jayant Tibrewala.
The idea for this extraordinary experience was born in a casual conversation among the club members. “One evening as we talked about our travel, we realised that some people have never ventured outside their hometowns, or even boarded a train, let alone a plane,” he says. This sparked the vision for Swapnor Udaan (Dream flight) — a project aimed at gifting these individuals a memory they would carry for a lifetime.
“Whenever an aeroplane passes overhead, my children and I rush outside to watch it in awe, dreaming about being up there one day. When Jayant saab told us that we were actually going on one, I was so thrilled I couldn’t sleep the entire night,” says one of the beneficiaries Parth Mohanty.
Tibrewala, along with two Rotaractors Vineet Bothra and Rahul, accompanied the excited passengers on a 90-minute flight from Tezpur to Lakhimpur on Air India Alliance. “It was the last flight from Tezpur before the airport closed for five years for maintenance,” says Tibrewala. At Lakhimpur, the group bonded over games at the Gandhi Park and visited the Ganpati mandir in a bus arranged by the club. They were then served a traditional Assamese lunch after which they were taken back to Tezpur by road.
The success of this heartwarming experience was also due to the support of the Tezpur airport authorities. “Despite reminders, some of them did not bring their identity cards, but the airport manager found a viable solution,” he says, appreciating the cooperation that allowed everyone to participate.
RC Greater Tezpur includes a considerable amount of fun element to keep the club vibrant and interesting. Recently, the spouses of the club members organised a four-day fun camp for the Annets and other children in the town. The camp had enriching activities such as yoga, storytelling, hula-hooping, fireless cooking and personality development sessions.
On the last day, the young participants enjoyed a special treat — a hands-on tour at a local Domino’s Pizza outlet. They delighted in making their own pizzas, and of course, in devouring them, along with a spread of snacks and fresh juices. “Watching the children have such a blast was the perfect ending to the camp,” smiles the club president.
The club has also been installing water booths to ensure safe drinking water for the town’s residents. Its most recent installation, costing ₹45,000, is now a lifesaver for around 200 people daily.
