In 2010, Courtney Deacon Lalotra made a last-minute decision to join a group of fellow alumni and professors on a trip to India. Courtney fell in love with the country and the people. One month later, Courtney did not return to the USA with the rest of the group. During this time in India, Courtney moved into a slum in Delhi and developed relationships with the children of the slum and had a vision for them. Courtney then decided to take a step of faith and open a home for abandoned and orphaned children with social needs. In 2014, with the support of family, friends, and her hometown church, “One Life to Love” opened its doors and began rescuing children from the streets and slums.
Diwali is a five-day festival of lights, celebrated by millions of Indians across the world. One of the most popular festivals of Hinduism, Diwali symbolizes the spiritual “victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.”
On November 14, 2020, “One Life to Love” virtually celebrated Diwali, co-sponsored by INDspire Tours, Senator Vin Gopal, and the IGU. The event started with a message from the founder and President Courtney Lalotra, followed by the meaning of Diwali.
The children from the “One Life to Love” orphanage performed a Happy Diwali dance that was a ray of hope for all Indian orphans and children with special needs. The children also performed a thank you song for the event. The event truly captured the festival of lights and reminded us how vibrant Indian culture and its children are.
You can view the children’s Diwali dance here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GIOosxYX4Ms