LEADING THROUGH COMPASSION
LEADING THROUGH COMPASSION
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OUR VISION - A humanitarian society that is sustainable, secure, and empowered to meet present and future challenges.
OUR MISSION - To build sustainable communities that meet the needs of every citizen by leading efforts to empower and secure all members of society.
THE WEERA FOUNDATION ASPIRES AND WORKS TO BUILD...
AN EMPOWERED SOCIETY
An empowered society is one where every individual has access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, enabling them to contribute actively and meaningfully to their community. In this society, citizens are informed, engaged, and capable of making decisions that affect their lives and the environment. Innovation and inclusivity drive progress, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued, fostering a culture of respect, equality, and resilience against challenges.
A SECURE SOCIETY
The secure society that we strive for is one where safety and stability are guaranteed for all individuals, with effective systems in place to protect against threats and ensure justice. Economic security is provided through equitable access to resources, jobs, and social services, ensuring that all citizens can lead dignified lives. Trust and transparency in governance foster a sense of confidence and well-being, allowing individuals to thrive without fear.
A SUSTAINABLE SOCIETY
A sustainable society is one where the communities are empowered with the knowledge to manage available resources responsibly to ensure long-term environmental health and economic viability. Economic activities are balanced with ecological preservation, ensuring that development does not compromise the needs of future generations. Inclusivity and equity are central, ensuring that all community members have access to the benefits of sustainability and can participate in decision-making processes.
The Weera Foundation is committed to transcending the traditional boundaries and contributions of standard NGOs by methodically and systematically addressing the most critical issues facing society today. It is evident to everyone that Sri Lanka is grappling with a multitude of challenges that the government alone cannot effectively tackle. At this pivotal moment in our country's history, there is a growing awareness that some issues are beyond the capacity of any government to resolve independently.
Moreover, we can no longer afford to wait for governmental interventions; immediate action is imperative as people's livelihoods are at stake.
In response to this urgent need, the International Weera Foundation believes it is more crucial than ever for NGOs and civil society organizations to step up, organize, and coordinate efforts to fill this void. We envision a proactive and collaborative approach, harnessing the strengths and resources of diverse stakeholders to create sustainable solutions.
Our goal is to foster resilience within communities, empower individuals with the tools and knowledge to improve their lives, and drive systemic change that benefits the entire nation. By working together, we can address these pressing challenges head-on and ensure a better future for all Sri Lankans.
FORGED IN FIRE
The International Weera Foundation was established in 1992 by Ven. Maduluwawe Sobitha Thero during the Sri Lankan Civil War (1983-2009) to support the welfare of war veterans and families affected by the conflict. During these tumultuous times, the foundation played a pivotal role in civil society efforts, ensuring that food and essential supplies reached rural villages devastated by the war.
Today, we believe that the Weera Foundation holds a distinctive position among civil society organizations due to our unique and storied history. Our origins and evolution have provided us with an intimate understanding of the diverse needs of Sri Lankans, particularly those residing in rural areas. This deep connection enables us to effectively address the challenges faced by Sri Lankans from all walks of life.
Over the years, the foundation has grown and adapted to meet the changing needs of the society it serves. Initially focused on rural development and the welfare of those living in extremely remote areas, our mission has expanded to encompass a wide range of causes, including empowerment, reconciliation, and sustainable development.
The Weera Foundation evolved into the International Weera Foundation to reflect the increasing significance of global collaboration and assistance in advancing our mission. This international collaboration and the support of private citizens living outside Sri Lanka and international organizations have been instrumental in amplifying our efforts, providing us with the necessary funding, innovative solutions, and diverse perspectives needed to address complex issues today.
Snap Shot - A Recent Project Done in Anuradhapura
A VISION TO FULFILL
“Sri Lanka is a small island in which live the Sinhalese, Tamils, Muslims, Malays and Burghers. We all must think how to live together and not how to live divided. Each time we were divided, the result was defeat.”
The Founder - International Weera Foundation
Ven. Maduluwawe Sobitha Thero
Ven. Maduluwawe Sobitha Thero (1942-2015) was an esteemed Sinhalese Buddhist leader who dedicated his life to the betterment of Sri Lankan society.
He dedicated his life to promoting mutual respect and amity between the various religious and linguistic groups of the country.
He is one of the most influential and revered figures in modern Sri Lankan history due to his tireless efforts to fight corruption, restore democracy, and champion social justice as a Buddhist monk and activist. He also founded and led the National Movement for a Just Society.
Ven. Sobitha Thero's passing on November 8, 2015, at the age of 73, was a profound loss for the nation he loved.
WE ARE A PROUD SRI LANKAN NGO.
Sri Lanka faces numerous challenges across various levels of society, and we are dedicated to addressing these issues with systemic and sustainable solutions. However, our commitment to progress does not diminish our pride in our rich history, culture, and heritage as a nation.
Our fundamental goal is to create a Sri Lanka where people of all races, ethnicities, and religions can coexist harmoniously and, more importantly, feel a deep sense of pride in being Sri Lankan.
We believe that patriotism, often misunderstood, can be a powerful force for peace, unity, and development. When combined with the inherent resilience of Sri Lankans, this patriotism becomes an unbeatable force for positive change. By fostering this spirit, we aim to build a nation where diversity is celebrated and every individual feels a profound connection to their homeland.
Non- Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Sri Lanka
While it is widely acknowledged that there are numerous urgent issues that cannot wait for government intervention, there remains a certain unease and, at times, contentious sentiment towards Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Sri Lanka.
We recognize that addressing and countering this unwarranted skepticism of grassroots-level NGOs is not only one of our objectives but also a potential outcome of our initiatives and programs.
Through our dedicated efforts, we aim to build trust and demonstrate the positive impact that NGOs can have on communities, ultimately fostering greater acceptance and collaboration.
The Weera Foundation has been operating for decades, during which time our members have studied and observed the formation of thousands of organizations dedicated to achieving numerous important goals.
Unfortunately, we have also witnessed the downfall and disappearance of the majority of these associations.
Learning and Improving
We are committed to not only avoiding the fate of those organizations by learning from their mistakes and the circumstances that led to their downfall, but also to carrying forward their vital causes. We believe these efforts are essential for building a strong and stable nation.
Our Projects
Our Projects
Since 1992, our projects have created lasting, positive impact across Sri Lanka. We empower rural communities, support war-affected families, promote sustainable development, and foster reconciliation. By collaborating with local and international partners, we implement solutions that uplift and transform lives, ensuring a brighter future for all Sri Lankans.
Housing Projects
Anuradhapura Elapathgama Development Project
The Weera Foundation's project in Anuradhapura- Elapathgama has transformed the village through the construction of 75 houses, a temple, water projects, and a community hall. This initiative addresses critical needs by providing secure housing, enhancing spiritual and cultural life, ensuring access to clean water, and creating a space for community gatherings and activities.
Manelgama Project
The Weera Foundation's Manelgama Project has provided 25 houses to families in the village, offering them secure and stable living conditions.
Ampara - Thoppigala Project
The Foundation's efforts in Ampara- Thoppigala have resulted in the construction of houses for almost a 100 families.
Kalutara - Mihikatawatta Project
Our project in Kalutara Mihikatawatta has transformed the community by building 110 houses, a library, a school, a playground, and a community centre. Through these efforts, the project hoped to foster a strong, vibrant, and resilient community.
Aside from the projects mentioned above, the International Weera Foundation has implemented projects in Galle, Kalawelpathana, Konwewa, Devinuwara,Tangalle, Kudawella and more.
Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Programs (Post-2004 Tsunami and Sri Lanka Civil War)
The Weera Foundation, in collaboration with local and international donors, successfully implemented an extensive housing project, constructing over 1,000 homes for those devastated by the 2004 Tsunami.
Helping people affected by the Sri Lanka Civil War was a founding aim of the International Weera Foundation. Since its beginnings, the foundation has specifically targeted war-affected areas for its projects, focusing on rebuilding and revitalizing communities that were deeply impacted by the conflict.
Scholarship/Education Development Programs for Underprivileged Children and Children of Veterans
The Weera Foundation has been dedicated to supporting underprivileged children and children of veterans through scholarship programs in the communities we've worked with, including Elapathgama, Manelgama, Thoppigala, and Mihikatawatta. The most recent projects of this nature were implemented in Nikaweratiya in 2023 and in Padukka in 2024.
Large-scale Food Donation Campaigns
The Weera Foundation has been conducting large-scale food donation campaigns in rural areas, ensuring that families receive the essential nutrition they need. Beyond simply distributing food items, we are committed to helping these communities achieve long-term self-sustainability. Our efforts include providing resources and training for local agriculture, supporting small-scale farming initiatives, and promoting practices that lead to food security.
Snap Shot : Helping the nation in its recovery from the most catastrophic natural disaster in its history (2004 Tsunami)
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