ABOUT US
The Arya Foundation is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt non-profit that provides need-based adaptive equipment to children with special needs in the Greater St. Louis Region. Founded in 2014, we are 100% volunteer-run and over 90% of individual donations go directly to providing adaptive equipment and services. There are 3 main components of our organization:
Providing adaptive equipment to children with special needs in the Greater St. Louis Region. The Arya Foundation will give up to $1000 per child per year towards the purchase of adaptive equipment. This includes equipment such as communication devices, ramps, customized wheelchairs, tomato glasses, and much more!
Educating families about resources available to them in Missouri. With so many services available, it can be hard to find the correct services and equipment for your child. The Arya Foundation hosts the Disability Awareness Convention in order to bring thousands of people together with the common goal of helping each other.
Integrating children with special needs into our community. We want to break down the barriers of communication and show kids and adults that people with special needs are just as valuable to society and the more we work together, the better our environment will be. When our volunteers and kids with special needs make jewelry together, it not only brings them together but also helps improve motor function skills.
THE legacy OF ARYA
Arya was born on Valentine’s Day in 2004. The daughter of two co-founders, she taught us what is meant to love unconditionally. Arya was loved by her family every moment of every day. She made friends with everyone and was an inspiration to us all.
The Arya Foundation was formed in memory of Arya. The support from our friends, family, and community created an organization with a focus on connecting kids with the world. We hope that even our smallest actions have a large impact and improve the lives around us. We are more than an organization: we are the hopes and dreams of children everywhere in promoting a brighter future. It’s about making a positive difference and building happier moments. Most importantly, it’s about “turning challenges into opportunities.”
“There is no greater disability in society than the inability to see a person as more”
OUR TEAM
Sunanda
Co-Founder & Vice-President
Mother of Arya, Sunanda came up with the idea to give back to the community through The Arya Foundation. She manages the little details that make up The Arya Foundation’s backbone.
Janice
Treasurer
While working at Roberg Tax Solutions, Janice makes sure the financial situation of The Arya Foundation is healthy. One of our avid speakers, she is never hesitant to spread the word about us and what we do.
AJ
Co-Founder & Director of Development
Brother of Arya, AJ is an avid food blogger and Event Planner. He organizes and manages all of The Arya Foundation’s unique events and ensures it’s attendees have a memorable time.
Beth
Director of Product Design
A huge foodie, Elizabeth likes to say her real job in the organization is to manage AJ. She is a Project Manager who ensures her love of fashion and creativity flows through the organization.
Michelle
Director of Philanthrophy
A realtor, Michelle can sell you anything if you ask nicely. Having worked in philanthropy for almost 20 years, she works on spreading the mission of The Arya Foundation to the community.
Dhananjay
Co-Founder & President
A huge computer nerd and father of Arya, Dhananjay is always looking for the next big thing in technology. As President, he oversees the overall operations and makes sure our vision is met.
Dustin
Director of Networking
Born and raised in the St. Louis area, Dustin is an avid supporter of The Arya Foundation and its goals. He enjoys volunteering and helping others has been a longtime personal endeavor.