The Tamil word Karunaii encompasses empathy, love and a helping hand. These are the concepts that guide the Karunaii Trust set up to address the urgent need for specialized care of mentally retarded children, particularly those from underprivileged sections of society. Condemned and ostracized by the mainstream, these children are victims of physical, sexual and psychological abuse. From a small building in Saidapet, Chennai, in southern India, Karunaii's small but dedicated team helps these children help themselves through education and day care. True to its name, Karunaii's commitment does not stop with the emotional and educational needs of special children through workshops and awareness campaigns. The Karunaii Trust believes that through intensive care, greater social awareness and networking of resources, these special children can become valuable members of the larger community.