High Impact Philanthropy: Gayatri Mathur of The Soondra Foundation On How To Leave A Lasting Legacy With A Successful & Effective Nonprofit Organization
An Interview with Karen Mangia
A Passionate Team: Having a team that shares your passion and commitment to the cause is essential. This team should be dedicated and genuinely interested in working within the nonprofit sector. By this I mean the internal team that works on operations in the US and also the NGO partners on the ground in India. They are the cornerstone of how our mission gets translated into action. Investing in partnerships and people results in growth and impact especially when like-minded individuals join forces.
For someone who wants to set aside money to establish a Philanthropic Foundation or Fund, what does it take to make sure your resources are being impactful and truly effective? In this interview series, called “How To Create Philanthropy That Leaves a Lasting Legacy” we are visiting with founders and leaders of Philanthropic Foundations, Charitable Organizations, and Non-Profit Organizations, to talk about the steps they took to create sustainable success.
As a part of this series, I had the pleasure of interviewing Gayatri Mathur.
With over 30 years of experience in physical therapy, spanning roles as a clinician, researcher, and professor, Gayatri possesses extensive expertise in healthcare and community well-being. Her shift to nonprofit leadership through the establishment of The Soondra Foundation underscores her commitment to creating a profound societal impact. Through the foundation’s mission of providing direct cash grants for medical emergencies to India’s working poor, Gayatri exhibits visionary leadership, addressing immediate healthcare needs while preventing financial catastrophes and intergenerational poverty. Her strategic thinking and effective engagement of diverse stakeholders are evident in her commitment to expansion, community involvement, and the organization’s various fundraising initiatives and collaborations with local businesses and chapters.
Thank you for making time to visit with us about a ‘top of mind’ topic. Our readers would like to get to know you a bit better. Can you please tell us about one or two life experiences that most shaped who you are today?
Certainly. There are two life experiences that have profoundly shaped who I am today. The first one dates back to my college days when I was pursuing my undergraduate studies in physical therapy at a large public hospital in Mumbai. Up until that point, I had always come from a comfortable, middle-class background, and everyone I knew shared a similar level of comfort. However, during my time at the hospital, I had a powerful realization.
I vividly remember one incident in particular. I was working with a patient in the cardiac unit who was about to be discharged. He was in a difficult situation as he needed to return to his village but lacked the financial means to do so. He confided in me, expressing his worries that he wouldn’t be able to afford medical care back in his village. This was the first time I truly understood the intersection of medicine and money.
This experience left a deep impression on me, as it was the moment I realized that not everyone had access to basic healthcare and that financial constraints could significantly impact a person’s well-being. It was a pivotal moment that shifted my perspective and made me more aware of the disparities in access to medical services.
The second transformative experience occurred during my visit to India when I met my mother’s maid’s child, who had suffered a fall. She didn’t have money to get her son’s MRI and was luckily able to borrow from people where she worked. This incident reinforced the fact that the financial aspect of healthcare affects not only the individual who falls sick but also their entire family. It was another instance where I saw how money and medical care intersect, impacting people’s lives on a fundamental level.
Both of these experiences motivated me to make a difference on a larger scale. While I had been impacting individual patients’ lives for over 30 years in my career, I realized that I wanted to contribute to improving communities. These incidents were instrumental in shaping my commitment to The Soondra Foundation, addressing the financial aspects of healthcare and making a positive impact in the lives of those who are vulnerable.
You are a successful leader. Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? We would love to hear a few stories or examples.
I think that people often expect to hear about remarkable character traits when it comes to what drives someone’s success but in my case, number one is grit. Growing up I had a lot of love and support, but didn’t have the luxury of being sent abroad on a full scholarship or with financial support. Instead, I had to work diligently and earn a scholarship to pursue my education in America. My determination to achieve my goal has been a driving force in my life, from the moment I decided I wanted to come to the United States. It’s not always the most glamorous trait to mention, but grit has been a cornerstone of my success.
Tenacity is another key trait. In life, obstacles are a given, and it’s all about being resilient and unwavering in following your goals. I’ve encountered numerous challenges along the way, from being an immigrant without local family support to managing my career while raising children to handling a demanding workload when my husband’s job required him to travel. Despite these hurdles, I remained resolute in my aspirations, maintaining a focus on my objectives.
Being goal-oriented is the third character trait that’s been important. I’ve always had clear goals in mind, whether it was managing my career, connecting my children to Indian culture and food, or expanding my clinical and professional experience. Each step of my journey was guided by a strong sense of purpose. I was determined to continually broaden my horizons and explore various aspects of my field, even if it meant taking the less conventional path .
One extra trait I want to add is a love for what I do, and the joy I feel when I’m working.. I truly believe that I wouldn’t have achieved my current position as the founder of The Soondra Foundation and been able to lead this organization if I didn’t find joy in every step of the way. It doesn’t mean that there are no doubts or struggles, just that enjoying myself has greatly contributed to my accomplishments.
What’s the most interesting discovery you’ve made since you started leading your organization?
One of the most intriguing discoveries since I took the helm of our organization revolves around a heartwarming story. We had the privilege of supporting a child who had faced severe health challenges. This young boy had fallen gravely ill with severe pneumonia, which ultimately led to kidney failure. The Soondra Foundation stood by him throughout his journey, from the time he was admitted.
It was a long and arduous recovery process, spanning three months, and it required the maximum financial support we could offer to his mother. When I returned to India after his recovery, I had the chance to meet him. He was around seven or eight years old at the time, and I coordinated the visit with his teacher.
What struck me most was his resilience and the sheer joy he exuded. When I visited his classroom, he shared his passion for drawing dinosaurs with me. Later, I went to his family’s home, a single room where the entire family lived. His parents were incredibly hospitable and offered me something to eat.
However, what truly resonated with me was the boy’s sass and spirit. When I asked him how he was doing, he replied with a touch of cheekiness, “What is it with you adults? Every time someone comes, they ask how I am doing. Look at me, I’m fine!” His candid response brought a smile to my face because it epitomized why I do the work I do.
Our mission isn’t solely about offering medical assistance. His transformation from a child battling illness to a joyful, cheeky young boy is the reason we exist. It reminded me that our work isn’t just about addressing medical issues; it’s about restoring the essence of childhood and allowing kids to be themselves without the weight of illness and financial worries.
Can you please tell our readers more about how you or your organization intends to make a significant social impact?
I’d be happy to! Our focus at The Soondra Foundation centers on two key pillars. First and foremost, we are dedicated to ensuring access to healthcare for all. We firmly believe that everyone has the fundamental right to see a doctor when they need it.
In India, the government does provide basic healthcare, including free admission to public hospitals and access to doctors. However, the challenge arises when individuals have to pay for essential diagnostic tests like blood work, MRIs, X-rays, or procedures such as setting fractures with pins and plates. These costs are often required to be paid out of pocket, even in public hospitals. In the private sector, expenses can be even higher.
The critical issue arises when someone lacks the financial means to cover these costs; consider the working poor, who earn just $3 to $5 a day. They can provide shelter, send their children to school, and put food on the table, but they have no savings. When a medical emergency strikes, it becomes a dual challenge.
Firstly, it’s about getting the individual to a doctor, and secondly, it’s the financial implications that follow. If we don’t step in at this moment of vulnerability, they may not receive the necessary medical care, which not only affects their health but also has enduring financial consequences for their family, often spanning generations.
To cope with these urgent situations, individuals may resort to borrowing from predatory lenders, as they are frequently unbanked or underbanked and lack access to formal financing. Alternatively, they may have to sell capital assets like a cow or land, resulting in the loss of vital resources. Now a medical crisis has also become a financial catastrophe.
Our primary goal is to assist these families during these critical moments of vulnerability. We want to do it at scale, impacting numerous communities simultaneously. By addressing this pressing medical problem, we aim to break the cycle of intergenerational poverty that can result from a single healthcare crisis.
What makes you feel passionate about this cause more than any other?
What fuels my passion for this cause more than any other is a combination of factors close to my heart. Firstly, it’s the deep connection I have with India, my home and the place where I grew up. India is a significant part of my identity, and I have an innate desire to give back to the society that has shaped who I am today.
Moreover, it’s a problem I intimately understand — the complex web of social, cultural, medical, and financial implications that surround the healthcare challenges in India. I believe that I can make a real difference in addressing this issue. It’s not about contributing a substantial amount; it’s about showing people that even a small donation, perhaps the cost of a t-shirt or a bottle of wine, can transform a life and uplift communities.
Above all, the cause is deeply personal for me because it’s named after my childhood nanny, Soondra, who played a crucial role in my life. She showered me with love, and I cherished her in return. Keeping her legacy alive by serving those in need in her name feels like a meaningful way to give back. It’s a tribute to the love and affection she gave me, and I’m passionate about continuing the impact she had on my life by helping others.
Without naming names, could you share a story about an individual who benefitted from your initiatives?
While there are many inspiring stories, I’ll tell you about one young woman who left a profound mark on our hearts. This remarkable young lady was one of our earliest grant recipients. She lived in a challenging environment in a slum area. During the monsoon season, she encountered a painful accident. While rushing down the stairs, she slipped and called out in agony. Her leg was hurting, but she had an important exam to attend. Because of the pain, she couldn’t walk.
Her father carried her to school, which was only a few blocks away. She managed to take the exam, but her discomfort was evident. Her teacher sensed that something was amiss, as this was not in keeping with her personality. The concerned teacher decided to take action and accompanied the girl and her father to the hospital. There, they had to undergo an X-ray, which revealed a severe and complex fracture in her thigh bone. While the teacher knew that The Soondra Foundation would cover these expenses, her father was hesitant, because he knew he could not afford the medical costs. He was a day laborer, earning just enough for their daily needs and rent.
However, the teacher was unwavering in his commitment to helping this family. He assured them that they would find the necessary funds to cover the operation. Consequently, the operation was successfully performed, and the young woman recovered. She went on to complete her final exams, secured a place in college, and chose to study science. Years later, she graduated and is currently searching for a job.
This story encapsulates what we aim to achieve through our initiatives. It highlights the loving dedication of parents who may lack the means to provide necessary care for their children. It also underscores the pivotal role of our partners in recognizing issues and advocating for children in need. In the end, a few years down the road, the obstacle she faced becomes just a bump in the road. She’s on her way to a bright future!
Without our intervention, she might have lived as a disabled person with a non-functioning leg, impacting her culturally, socially, and financially. This story embodies our mission — to empower individuals to achieve their full potential, unburdened by medical issues that could otherwise limit their aspirations and opportunities.
We all want to help and to live a life of purpose. What are three actions anyone could take to help address the root cause of the problem you’re trying to solve?
First and foremost, it begins with awareness. In both the Indian and American ecosystems, the critical link between health and finances is becoming increasingly evident. We need to recognize that health and financial well-being are interconnected, a reality that we may not have been as aware of in the past. This awareness is crucial, particularly in India, where, for some, a medical emergency leads to immediate financial implications. It’s essentially a one-two punch, making the situation even more challenging. Raising awareness about this interconnectedness is the first vital step.
Secondly, we need to acknowledge the lack of education and self-advocacy, particularly among those with limited formal education. Many people lack the knowledge and skills to advocate for their healthcare needs effectively. They may struggle to navigate the healthcare system even when they become ill, and this can hold them back from accessing the resources and support they require. Recognizing and addressing this educational and advocacy barrier is essential.
Lastly, taking action by donating to organizations like The Soondra Foundation is a tangible way to make a significant impact. Even small donations can have a transformative effect on a family’s life. At The Soondra Foundation, we’ve structured our organization to ensure that every contribution, regardless of its size, has a substantial impact. Whether individuals choose to make small or large donations, they can be confident that their support will create a positive change, benefiting either an individual family or an entire community, depending on their level of contribution.
Based on your experience, what are the “5 Things You Need To Create A Successful & Effective Nonprofit That Leaves A Lasting Legacy?”
- Community Engagement: At The Soondra Foundation, even though we work in the development sector, we know we don’t have the right to speak for others.We believe that the communities we serve know what they need, and we respect their perspective. Rather than helicoptering in and telling communities what they need, we trust their expertise in their challenges. Our approach involves consulting our partner communities to understand their unique requirements and then giving them the resources they need within our criteria. This process is about engaging with the communities to determine what they want, rather than telling them what they need. This shift creates space for people on the ground to guide the change they wish to see, leading to a more profound and lasting legacy for the nonprofit as well.
- A Productive Giving Paradigm: As I’ve said, communities that need support are the best judge of what they require. Imposing external biases and preconceived notions is counterproductive. In the nonprofit sector, we have to engender trust in decision making and execution, it’s the only way to drive impact. That is not to say we shouldn’t have accountability or transparency, we should. However, donors that require extensive paperwork and meaningless metrics limit program effectiveness, because the focus shifts away from the real work. Philanthropy as a partnership, between donors, development professionals and the communities they serve, is the only way to create lasting positive change
- A Passionate Team: Having a team that shares your passion and commitment to the cause is essential. This team should be dedicated and genuinely interested in working within the nonprofit sector. By this I mean the internal team that works on operations in the US and also the NGO partners on the ground in India. They are the cornerstone of how our mission gets translated into action. Investing in partnerships and people results in growth and impact especially when like-minded individuals join forces.
- Agile Best Practices: Establishing and continually improving best practices is vital. The ground realities and rules can change, and your organization needs to adapt to these changes while adhering to proven practices. This ensures the continued effectiveness of your mission.Our work during the COVID-19 pandemic has showcased the tremendous potential for being nimble and adapt to new situations
- Impactful Storytelling: Communicating the impact of your nonprofit is crucial. However, it’s essential to do so in a respectful, meaningful, and non-exploitative manner. Rather than focusing on poverty, we concentrate on the transformation our donors enable and the hopes and dreams of the individuals we serve.We are humble when we enumerate problems and try to to use language that does not perpetuate inequities.
How has the pandemic changed your definition of success?
At the onset of the pandemic, we launched fundraising efforts and were fortunate to receive generous support from the community. The Soondra Foundation was able to assist 15,000 families during this challenging time. We provided essential supplies such as lentils, rice, salt, and oil, ensuring that no one went hungry. Additionally, we extended our assistance to patients with tuberculosis, a crucial effort as continuity in their treatment was vital to prevent drug resistance.
What became evident during this period was the significant impact that even a small amount of money can have on the lives of those in need. The value of these contributions extended far beyond what I initially expected. This was an “aha” moment.
Another fundamental shift in my perception of success was related to our organizational processes. We had established a robust system with a focus on best practices, which proved to be highly effective during the pandemic. Having undergone incubation at the University of Chicago’s Polsky Exchange, , I transitioned from being a physical therapist to a non-profit CEO. The exposure to best practices from the for-profit sector allowed me to build a transparent and efficient system.
The pandemic served as a litmus test, affirming that the path we had set was the right one. While many other non-profits faced challenges in the turbulent times, we were able to continue our operations effectively, thanks to our strong connections and partnerships on the ground in India.
I realized that we could scale our efforts and make a more substantial impact. We no longer needed to confine our work to a small scale. The connections we had established and the partnership model we embraced were the key to success. I firmly believe that change happens through collaborative efforts, working hand in hand with our partners in India. We don’t dictate; we listen and adapt our approach based on the unique needs and circumstances of each partner and their respective communities.
The pandemic taught us that our journey to make a difference can grow exponentially, and it reinforced our commitment to fostering impactful partnerships in India. This flexibility and adaptability is what I see as the true definition of success in our mission.
How do you get inspired after an inevitable setback?
That’s easy! Dealing with setbacks is all about maintaining focus on the positive impact you’re making. You have to anticipate that setbacks will occur in this sector. I focus on what I can do, and don’t worry about the mountain of challenges that need to be solved.
For instance, we had a family with a child suffering from epilepsy. Our role extended beyond providing financial assistance; it involved educating the family about the condition and its management. Witnessing the transformation in the lives of this family, seeing them embrace the knowledge that their child can lead a full and normal life with proper medication, is a reminder of the difference we make. Such stories are repeated regularly, reinforcing our commitment.
Furthermore, personal encounters can be deeply moving. I recall a chance encounter at a cancer hospital where a father of one of our grantees expressed his gratitude by saying “you gave my son a second chance in life”; a powerful reminder of why we persist despite the setbacks we are inevitably going to encounter.
We are very blessed that very prominent leaders read this column. Is there a person in the world who you would like to talk to, to share the idea behind your non-profit? He, she, or they might just see this, especially if we tag them. 🙂
Earlier I implied that the old days where foundations call on consultants to tell them what to do are gone. We know that people in the field are the ones making the change. We know that a few hundred dollars can make a lifesaving difference in a child’s life or can help a sick, young mother to be there for her children’s security, for their welfare in the years to come. Yes, there are gaps in healthcare access but we know change is possible. We have seen this in our work. Children we serve tell us that we need to continue to do what we do at The Soondra Foundation because they are happy to be seen by us, that nobody else has been in our place.
I’ve personally always been inspired by Chandrika Tandon’s incredible work in both the business world and her humanitarian efforts. Her commitment to philanthropy and her understanding of the importance of direct community involvement aligns very much with our values at The Soondra Foundation. She has a proven track record of making a positive impact in the world, and her insights and support could greatly benefit our foundation, helping us expand our reach and effectiveness.
Chandrika’s success in leveraging her resources and influence for the greater good is something I deeply admire. It would be an honor to have a conversation with her and share the vision and impact of The Soondra Foundation and how we believe philanthropy can evolve to make an even more significant difference in the lives of those we serve.
You’re doing important work. How can our readers follow your progress online?
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soondracares/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soondrafoundation
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-soondra-foundation
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gayatrimathurr/
Thank you for a meaningful conversation. We wish you continued success with your mission.
About The Interviewer: Karen Mangia is one of the most sought-after keynote speakers in the world, sharing her thought leadership with over 10,000 organizations during the course of her career. As Vice President of Customer and Market Insights at Salesforce, she helps individuals and organizations define, design and deliver the future. Discover her proven strategies to access your own success in her fourth book Success from Anywhere and by connecting with her on LinkedIn and Twitter.
High Impact Philanthropy: Gayatri Mathur of The Soondra Foundation On How To Leave A Lasting Legacy… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.