VOLUNTEERS

The Akhila Bharatha Ayyappa Seva Sangham started its activities 53 years ago for serving the Ayyappa Devotees undertaking the arduous journey to Sabarimala. Over the years the horizon was expanded and increased its activities justifying the true meaning of the word "Service". The various activities of the Sangam (ABASS) are coordinated by a central committee of 41 members. At present there are 77 unions and 3260 branches and 262 temples in Kerala and outside under the control of the central body. Strictly democratic, elections are conducted every 3 years to elect the office bearers.

	Organise special service at important centres like pamba, Sannidhanam, Erumeli etc. during the festival season and thousands of devoted volunteers undertake service duty at all times.
	Medical unit with ambulance facility is set up at the camp to help the needy.
	A well equipped hospital at Sannidhanam.
	Medical unit with ambulance facility is set up at the camp to help the needy.
	A well equipped hospital at Sannidhanam.
	The distribution of boiled and medicated drinking water at the camps and all resting Places.
	Instant action in carrying the sick to the nearest hospital.
	Financial aid to the needy or separated pilgrims.
	Cremation of dead bodies.
	Conducting bhajans and devotional speeches at the camps.
	Constructed 40 toilets and mortuary at Pamba, 100 toilets at Valiyanavattom and 50 at Azutha.
	Provide meals to the pilgrims. Last year 5000 pilgrims were give meals every day.
	Published a regular magazine entitled "Sree Ayyapan" in Malayalam and 'Om Sree Ayyapan' in Tamil.
	A hospital under "Sasta Medical Mission" at Madurai.
	The construction of a large old age home in Madurai is in progress.

In spite of the limited resources, ABASS carries out its service activities with the zeal that can be seen only in a true humanitarian. Often during the festival season the volunteers take leave from their regular jobs and come to the camps to do the services required. The huge expenditure incurred is met mainly by donations from the devotees. A lot could be accomplished if proper funding and resources are available. There is no dearth of will or the desire to help and let the blessings of Ayyappa help in overcoming the hurdles towards a better tomorrow.