Dignity from Despair: A Step by Step Guide for Transforming the Lives of Women and Children-- Successful Ngo Creation Using the Maher Method

There is a worldwide rapid awakening to the profound need for communities to act to protect and heal our most vulnerable citizens, women and children. A horrific rape in Delhi, a gang rape in US videoed to classmates, a Pakistani girl shot for the crime of seeking an education, these cases and more have galvanized public outrage and led to a global outcry for practical solutions. We simply cannot wait for government solutions to fix what ails our world. Maher is one proven model of community-based action with sixteen years, over 2500 women and nearly 2300 children, and overwhelmingly successful outcomes. This book comes along at just the right time to detail how to replicate Maher's success, whether in its home in India, or in Africa, Southeast Asia, or even in the West. From envisioning an organization, to space design, to staffing, to dealing with challenges, there are plans, tips, lessons learned, and case studies from Maher, even templates for budgets, admissions records, etc. There is enough detail to save having to reinvent the wheel, plus guidelines to support each organization to develop uniquely, thereby able to fit into its own local context.

Author's Note: inside

Since first agreeing to write this book, two things have heightened my urgency and commitment to this project. One, I have experienced firsthand the amazing unique community that is Maher, I have come to know some truly stellar young people, some from broken homes, some rescued from the streets. Having grown up the last 10-15 years at Maher, they have developed into exemplary young men and women. Women who were at risk of being murdered, or were tossed to the streets, are now vibrantly alive women helping other women and children heal and thrive. Two, I have also experienced worldwide awareness crystalizing in the profound need for all of us to actively engage in protecting and supporting our most vulnerable citizens: women and children, many of whom are trapped in a system that is rigged against them. And that when we truly engage, whole communities are transformed along with the women and children. Everyone's lives are better.

Maher has a 16-year history of proven success for over 2500 women and nearly that many children. Some come for a short-stay, some make Maher their home. Remarkably, these very women and children who are the focus of Maher services, are also soon on the front lines of healing and transforming life in their families and in their communities. This book details, step by step how ordinary committed people can replicate Maher's success, one community at a time. Maher provides part of the answer at least, of how the larger system can change, how people can reclaim dignity from despair.

About the author

Darcy Cunningham, MBA has been working with organizations for more than 25 years. Her work includes systemic evaluation and creative change, organizational purpose and values, dilemma management, ethics, and team and leadership systemic coaching & development. Working with individuals, large and small groups, and boards, she has consulted in a range of industries and with community-based and non-profit organizations. She integrates the principles of systemic constellations work to individuals, families, and larger systems. She also owns a yoga center, teaching asana, breath, meditation, and other programs for personal and spiritual development, and supports ease in body, mind, and soul.