Frequently
Asked
Questions
We understand that navigating a new platform can be daunting, so we've compiled a list of common questions to help you get started. Here you will find answers to questions about what we do, SANSAR’s initiatives, participating in events, and more.
Whether you're a seasoned internet user or just getting started, our FAQ section is designed to provide you with the information you need to make the most of your SANSAR experience. If you don't find the answer you are looking for here, please don't hesitate to reach out to our support team for further assistance. We are committed to making your engagement with SANSAR as smooth and informative as possible.
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Is SANSAR a registered Canadian charity?
The South Asian Network Supporting Awareness and Research (SANSAR) is a registered Canadian charity that serves South Asian communities across Canada by promoting cardiovascular health through community awareness, research and education. We conduct and promote research into the causes, prevention and management of heart disease and diabetes.
For official and the most up-to-date information visit CRA website.
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Can I volunteer for SANSAR?
If you are interested in volunteering opportunities at SANSAR, please visit our website and fill-out the form at https://www.sansar.org/volunteer. SANSAR is in a post-pandemic revamping phase, and we are planning quite a few initiatives that will be launched soon.
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How do I apply for the SANSAR Young Investigator Award?
Since 2014, the SANSAR-Burgundy Young Investigator Award is presented to a young investigator who’s clinical or basic science activities are in the area of cardiovascular disease. SANSAR welcomes applications for young investigators focusing on South Asian health. To find out more about the eligibility criteria and application procedure,
please visit Young Investigator Award.
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What does SANSAR’s clinic do that’s different from what my family doctor can do?
Your family doctor likely follows the same testing and screening guidelines on all of his/her patients, regardless of ethnic background. They would only test you further if you are showing symptoms of heart disease or diabetes. At our Clinic, we want to assess your risk thoroughly BEFORE you ever develop any symptoms. We will take your South Asian background into account from the very start and determine your level of risk accordingly. We work in hand-in-hand WITH your family doctor, and send them all your reports, notes, info on progress, etc.
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How is SANSAR reaching out to South Asians in lower income brackets, who might not have access or resources to learn about these health issues and to make necessary changes?
We are constantly trying to reduce the barriers to good healthcare for all South Asians. One way we do this is by having doctors at our clinic who speak multiple South Asian languages, so that patients who don’t feel comfortable speaking or writing English can still benefit from our services. We also conduct free outreach initiatives at local community events, as well as at places of worship. This allows us to reach people from all income levels. We are also creating programs that reach out specifically to new immigrant populations, and are transferring our written content into videos, so that our messages are easy to understand without requiring strong literacy skills.
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How will the fund-raised money be used?
At SANSAR, we know that literally every dollar counts! The money you contribute goes directly towards creating, improving and expanding our programs. For example, your donation could help us re-launch and reach a greater number of students with our Kids at heART program. Your donation can also help us offer more free classes to the public to teach them about stress management, diet and nutrition, etc. With your help, we can create more innovative education and community outreach initiatives. Simply put, by donating to SANSAR, you become a part of SANSAR and all that we are trying to do.
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My GP doesn’t know about SANSAR. How do I come to the clinic?
You can easily find our referral form on our website under Physician / Patient Resources. If you are a member, you can download the form and take it to your family doctor, have them fill it and fax it to us. The process to visit our clinic is very simple and does not cost you anything. If you have any concerns or questions in this regard, you can email us at info@sansar.org and we will be more than willing to assist you.
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I don’t know if people know about SANSAR. How are you getting the word out?
Our team of renowned physicians have spent the past few years laying the foundation for the charity and creating its programs. We are now seeking support from the community, business leaders, and donors to spread the word about our work and to help us gain the exposure we need. We are a charity initiated by the South Asians, for the South Asians. Our goal is to help as many people as possible – and to ultimately reduce the instances of complications arising from heart attacks, strokes and diabetes that are widespread in our community.