“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.” – Mahatma Gandhi
‎

Voice for the Voiceless, the signature project of the Rotaract Club of IT, is a powerful call to action for the welfare of stray animals and those under human care in Sri Lanka. In a country where an estimated 1.5 million stray dogs roam the streets, facing hunger and danger daily, our initiative is a beacon of hope. This project goes beyond feeding and caring—it’s about transforming lives, fostering empathy, and building a community that champions the voiceless. Through our dedicated efforts, we’re creating a lasting impact, and here’s why it matters.
‎

On October 26, 2024, our volunteers gathered at Townhall to feed stray dogs and cats, providing nutritious meals to animals often overlooked. In Sri Lanka, nearly 70% of stray dogs suffer from malnutrition, making these efforts critical. The sight of wagging tails and grateful purrs was a vivid reminder that a single meal can spark hope. This event didn’t just nourish bodies; it inspired onlookers to rethink their role in animal welfare, creating a ripple effect of compassion in the community.
‎

On December 21, 2024, we continued our mission at Gangarama Temple, feeding stray dogs and fitting them with collars to enhance their safety. Collars help identify cared-for strays, reducing the risk of harm in a country where thousands of strays face accidents or culling annually. Our team also engaged locals in conversations about responsible pet ownership, planting seeds for change. The gratitude in the dogs’ eyes showed us that these small acts are steps toward a safer, kinder world for strays.
‎

On February 22, 2025, we’ll head to the Meethotamulla Garbage Dump, where stray dogs endure harsh conditions amid waste and neglect. With over 80% of strays in such areas suffering from disease or injury, our plan to provide food and collars is vital. This event targets an underserved community, improving the dogs’ health and visibility while raising awareness about their plight. By intervening in such challenging environments, we’re addressing a critical need and inspiring others to act.
‎

On May 24, 2025, we’ll volunteer at Dehiwala Zoo, cleaning the bird sanctuary and feeding elephants. This work ensures healthier living conditions for captive animals, who rely entirely on human care. In Sri Lanka, zoos house over 3,000 animals, and maintaining their habitats is essential for their well-being. Cleaning the sanctuary and feeding elephants fosters a deeper connection to these creatures, reminding us of our responsibility to all animals, whether stray or in captivity.
‎

Voice for the Voiceless matters because it tackles a pressing issue: the neglect of animals who cannot advocate for themselves. Every meal we provide strengthens a stray, every collar saves a life, and every volunteer session sparks change. In a nation where stray overpopulation leads to over 200,000 reported dog bites annually, our efforts to feed, protect, and raise awareness are crucial steps toward solutions. This project, as the Rotaract Club of IT’s flagship initiative, embodies our mission to drive compassion and responsibility.
‎

The impact of this project extends beyond the animals we help. Each event inspires volunteers, engages communities, and challenges indifference. We’re not just feeding strays or cleaning sanctuaries—we’re building a movement. We invite you to join us in amplifying the silent. Follow the Rotaract Club of IT on social media or reach out to volunteer. Together, we can ensure every creature is seen, heard, and cared for, creating a brighter future for Sri Lanka’s voiceless.