Category: Charity

HOUSTON: On July 8, Hurricane Beryl made landfall on the Texas coast as a Category 1 hurricane, bringing wind gusts of up to 90 mph and heavy rainfall. The storm caused significant damage, including widespread power outages throughout the Houston area, leaving millions of residents without electricity.Right: BAPS Charities delivers a hot meal to the Fort Bend Emergency Response Center. At center is Ft Bend County Judge K.P. George.Far Right: BAPS Charities served over 600 meals at the mandir.

Government officials in Houston, Harris County, Fort Bend County, Galveston, Montgomery County, and surrounding areas have been working tirelessly to aid in recovery efforts. Amid these challenging times, BAPS Charities has stepped up to provide much needed support to those affected by the storm.

Volunteers from BAPS Charities came together to serve the storm hit area of Fort Bend County. Recognizing the urgent need for hot meals, volunteers prepared and delivered hot pizzas to the Fort Bend Emergency Response
Centers. This act of kindness and service provided comfort and sustenance to many individuals working on the front lines of the disaster response. Over 600 people were served hot rice, lentils, and rotis along with pasta during lunch and dinner at the local BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Houston.

“BAPS Charities is committed to serving the community, especially in times of crisis,” said volunteer Jaladhi Patel. “Our volunteers are dedicated to providing immediate relief and support to those affected by Hurricane Beryl. We stand in solidarity with all the residents and officials working to recover and rebuild after the storm.”

BAPS Charities volunteers continued the efforts by delivering hot meals to the Stafford Police Department. BAPS Charities continues to monitor the situation and is prepared to offer additional assistance as needed. The organization encourages everyone in the affected areas to stay safe and follow the guidance of local authorities.

HOUSTON: With phones ringing every minute, Sewa International volunteers have responded to calls for help across Houston as Hurricane Beryl’s vast impact is felt. Beryl, that made landfall on the Texas coast on July 8, has killed eight, affected two million people, and caused an estimated 3.3 billion in damages. In the latest food drive on July 14, Sewa and seven other organizations packed and distributed 1000+ hot meals to people in Channelview, Texas, at Praise Christian Church. “There is a lot more work to be done, and a lot more people to be reached, and any support from the community will be appreciated,” said Arun Kankani, President, Sewa International, himself a Houstonian, alluding to the Facebook fundraising campaign by Sewa, as well as donors’ ability to contribute through the Sewa website. 

Sewa volunteers began relief activities soon after the hurricane made landfall and as high winds destroyed many roofs and fences, received calls from people stranded without power and food. Sewa volunteers have served 200 meals to a senior living community in Hollyoaks, Harris County, TX, and to over 150 students in an apartment complex in Houston who lost power due to the hurricane. 

“Sewa has been serving people worldwide during disasters and many Houston residents remember our relief efforts and rebuilding work during Hurricane Harvey in 2017. Beryl, a category one hurricane, has caused extensive damage, and I appeal to people to donate to Sewa’s ‘Together for Texas’ campaign, to help Houston recover,” said Arun Kankani.

A call from Brooks Spangler, the Community Disaster Program Manager at the American Red Cross of Georgia, informed Sewa International about the situation at the Hollyoak retirement center. Within a few hours, Sewa volunteers delivered the hot meals donated by Maharaja Bhog, a restaurant and food vendor in Houston. 

Meals for Students

Sewa volunteers also served meals to over 150 graduate students of the University of Houston, living in an apartment complex. The students did not have electricity since July 8, could not go out to get food, and were suffering from heat-related stress. Within hours, after receiving a call from the Consulate General of India, Houston, Sewa volunteers served meals and offered a two-night accommodation with power for some students.

Sewa volunteers delivered more than 120 gallons of water to Rosharon in Brazoria County, Texas. The community was unable to access clean drinking water and lacked power. 

“We began our efforts a day before the storm by sharing non-emergency phone lines with the community. We gathered emergency supplies and prepared families to ensure their vehicles and homes were ready for the storm. During the storm, we alerted residents to evacuate, avoid damaged buildings and power lines, and consume safe water and food,” Kankani said.

“Sewa volunteers are working on reaching out to families without power, delivering ice to cope with the heat, and sharing information on roofing contractors and cooling shelters. I thank the many Sewa volunteers who are helping others despite facing challenges at their homes like power outages and roof leaks,” Kankani said.

Miraculous Ways

Sewa has been receiving many positive responses from community members: “I never thought I will be in this situation. God does things in a Miraculous way and as a human being, we do not have any clue. Please let me know how I can help Sewa,” said one recipient, and another said, after receiving food, “A hot dinner after four days hit the spot! Thanks to all the volunteers and Sewa team for coming forward in any crisis.” 

Sewa is a member of the Texas Gulf Coast Regional Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (TGCRVOAD) and other regional groups. Sewa continues to respond to the needs of the Greater Houston Community. 

For assistance or to support the efforts, call the helpline at 281-909-SEWA (7392) or email houston@sewausa.org.

Link to donate via Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/NyKWerg24qJDU98z/

Link to donate on Sewa website: https://www.sewausa.org/SupportHurricaneBerylReliefEfforts

HOUSTON: The Ekal Houston chapter brought an exclusive live fund-raising event – EKAL Ki Shaam – to Indian and Mashup music lovers in the Houston Metro area. The audience was entertained by an energetic band and delicious dinner on Saturday, June 8, 2024. The Houston team shared Ekal-inspired successes in India, including women empowerment, organic farming, digital literacy, health education/delivery, and child education.  The event enabled Ekal to raise about $718,000 which covers  funds for about 1000 plus schools and empowerment programs including tailoring centers, digital literacy, computer labs, organic farming education and health in the India’s rural villages which can empower about 60,000 young learners, male and female.

The event was held at the GSH Event Center of Houston. The overwhelming number of Ekal donors, patrons, and well-wishers socialized over a sumptuous dinner catered by Bhojan. The enthusiastic audience was entertained by Din Check – New England’s premier Bollywood band. Started in a basement in suburban Massachusetts in 2010, The band has been entertaining Indians for over 12 years now. The band has a full ensemble including vocalists, guitar, bass, keyboards, and acoustic drums, and is popular for its high-energy shows. Touching upon all genres, popular singers, and eras, the band appeals to people of all ages. Din Check’s repertoire spans multiple languages, including Hindi, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, and Gujarati, and unique fusions or “mashups” of popular American rock and Indian music. Special dance by Houston’s own Kajal Desai ( accomplished dancer and owner of Bollywood dance school for young budding artists) stood out as a special attraction.

After the dinner, the program was kicked off by Rajeev Aluru- Ekal Houston chapter President who welcomed the guests and dignitaries. The stage was then taken over by the energy of Din Check, presenting a bounty of new and old songs from multiple languages. The evening continued with short clips of Ekal activities in India preceded by a speech from our Regional President Yogi Patel. The evening continued with more music with the singers joining the dancing audience on the floor with on-the-spot medleys to further energize them.

The event would not have been possible without the support of our EKAL youth volunteers. Led by Abhay Kakumani, the EKAL youth were instrumental in the smooth running of the event, conducting registration, seating, and running the donation tables. The EKAL youth are the future of EKAL, and having so many young leaders coming out in support of EKAL gives us hope for a brighter future for our fellow children in India.

Finally, the event team wishes to convey a special thank you to the chief guests of the evening – Consulate General of India-Houston, elected representatives from Fort Bend County, Harris County, Yogi Patel, Ekal Southwest Regional President; Ekal volunteers; and Ekal Houston Chapter leadership, current and past.

Your donation will educate children, empower women with tailoring skills, nurture poshanvatika (organic farming) for healthy village life, help bring the tribal youth closer to city dwellers by giving digital education to them, and much more. We encourage you to support Ekal’s mission. You are just a click away from making that important contribution, go to https://www.ekal.org/us/donate and click the DONATE button on the top right of the page.

HOUSTON: 2024 marks CRY, Child Rights and You America’s 20th year of ensuring children’s rights to a happy, healthy & educated life. CRY America held 5 galas in April which raised over 1.5 million dollars.

Our CRY Gala in Houston on April 21 at the Marriott Sugar Land was an evening of reflection & celebration as we expressed our gratitude to our supporters & shared our achievements.

The CRY Gala was attended by 370 guests, including Bollywood Celebrity Arjun Rampal and Project Partner Dr Rolee Singh. Our honorees for the evening were longstanding CRY supporters Prakash and Juuhi Ahuja. Thanks to the generosity of our guests, the CRY Gala raised over $400,000 which will be directed towards ensuring children their basic rights to live, learn, grow & play.

The evening included a cocktail hour with hors d’oeuvres, live auction, dinner, donor appreciation, pledge session and Bollywood music and dancing. The feature entertainment of the evening was Esther Anaya with Karmagraphy and everyone enjoyed the classy performance. The live auction showcased a guitar autographed by the Rolling Stones, a Chicago Bulls jersey autographed by Michael Jordan, among others raised $30,000. Arjun Rampal said, “thanks to supporters like you over the past 20 years, CRY America has touched the hearts and lives of nearly 800,000 underprivileged children”!

Thank you to our Texas Board, CRY Gala Committee members, donors, sponsors, volunteers, project partners & CRY Staff for making children’s dreams come true. The CRY Gala 2024 was a 20-year milestone to remember & a testament to our shared commitment of shaping children’s destinies with YOU!

About CRY America:

CRY, Child Rights and You America Inc (CRY America) is a 501c3 non-profit driven by its vision of a just world in which all children have equal opportunities to develop to their full potential and realize their dreams. With the support of over 35,334 donors and 2,000 volunteers, CRY America has impacted the lives of 796,919 children living across 5,027 villages and slums through support to 111 Projects in India and the USA. For more information: contact Patrick Bocco at 617-959-1273; visit http://cryamerica.org.

SCHAUMBERG, IL – May 14, 2024: Sewa International USA, the Hindu faith-based non-profit organization, held its 18th National Conference at IndiaHub in Schaumburg, IL, on May 4 and 5. The conference brought together over 140 volunteers, including Sewa’s directors, advisory board members, executive team leaders, chapter presidents, coordinators, and other functionaries.

Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi and the Consul General of India in Chicago, Somnath Ghosh, attended the event. Krishnamoorthi highlighted the significant contributions of the Indian American community, noting its representation in various fields, including Congress. Referring to the recent census findings, he said the Indian American community is the fastest-growing, best-educated, and most prosperous segment of America. He expressed his support for Sewa International and assured the gathering that he would be a part of all its endeavors.

Bhagavad Gita — The Life Guide

Gauranga Das Prabhu, Director of Govardhan Eco Village in Maharashtra and popular spiritual and motivational speaker, and Jay Shetty, author, life coach, and advisor to global celebrities, participated in a “fireside chat” at the event. Gauranga Das said the Bhagavad Gita, the Hindu spiritual treatise, is the best guide to a fulfilling life and mental well-being.

Reflecting on his spiritual journey, he commended Sewa for its active engagement in giving back to society. Gauranga Das, citing the Gita, said that charity is a duty without expectations. He emphasized the importance of performing duties according to time, place, and circumstance. Drawing a comparison between Lord Krishna’s description of sewa (selfless service) and Sewa volunteers’ work, he said that success lies in living for others.

Jay Shetty said that absorption in any spiritual practice leads to intensity in action and sensitivity in dealings. He praised Sewa for embodying this principle, highlighting Sewa’s intensity in action and commitment, and sensitivity in helping and reaching out to those in need. He commended Sewa for making selfless service the focus of human life, especially in a world distracted by various other pursuits.

Indian Diaspora in 180 Countries

In his opening remarks, Sridhar Talanki, a member of Sewa’s Board of Directors, emphasized the vision of a harmonious, happy world experiencing oneness through sewa, noting that Sewa International has set a benchmark for excellence through its service activities.

Shyam Parande, a member of the Board of Advisors, highlighted the presence of Indians in 180 countries, noting that despite centuries of oppression, Hindu heritage continues to flow like the river Ganga.

Arun Kankani, President of Sewa International, released Sewa’s annual report and announced the new team, including the board of directors, teams, and advisors. He also released a booklet highlighting the milestones of Sewa’s 20-year journey since its founding in 2004.

Venkat Santanaraman, Vice President, Finance, highlighted the remarkable 22% increase in revenues in 2023. Contributions from various sources supported this growth, including 67% from individuals, 14% from family funds, and 10% from matching donations.

Sandeep Khadkekar, Vice President of Marketing, and Swadesh Katoch, Vice President of Disaster Management, led sessions on marketing strategies and impactful initiatives, such as the Bhutanese Refugee Empowerment (BRE) and Sewa’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Shrinarayan Chandak Honored

Sewa honored Shrinarayan Chandak, a member of Sewa’s Advisory Board and leader of various dharmic causes. Chandak and his wife Asha have lived in the US for the past 55 years, contributing significantly to the Indian American community. Sewa’s Advisory Board members Saumitra Gokhale and Shyam Parande commended Shrinarayan Chandak’s dedication and organizational skills that had strengthened the community’s fabric in the US.

HOUSTON: Kids and adults looking for a creative outlet this summer can share their musical talents by joining the Wild Tunes Club. This group of talented musicians volunteers at local shelters to play soothing melodies for animals awaiting their forever homes.

An 11-year-old Houston boy named Yuvi Agarwal launched Wild Tunes, a non-profit organization dedicated to calming animals through music. An animal lover and talented musician, Yuvi had the idea to create Wild Tunes after learning that music provides mental stimulation to animals, reducing their stress. This, in turn, boosts their confidence, making them suitable for fostering or adoption.

“Wild Tunes presents a win-win opportunity for volunteers to practice their musical skills, earn service hours, and, at the same time, make life more bearable for shelter animals,” said Yuvi. “For those who have stage fright, they can flex their musical muscles in front of an audience that will not be judgmental!” Yuvi added.

This summer, Yuvi and Priyanka Agarwal, Yuvi’s mom, and director of Wild Tunes, encourage young and old alike to get involved with the Wild Tunes program to make a difference in the lives of shelter animals.

“The program also serves as a unique platform for local schools, music groups, choirs, bands to engage with a shelter. When more people visit a shelter, there is greater exposure, and higher chances of adoption for animals,” said Agarwal. “Wild Tunes is an out of the box idea that elevates the overall well-being of shelter animals and volunteers alike and offers a dramatically different avenue for community engagement.”

Here’s how it works:

• Choose your favorite instrument – keyboard, string instrument (violin or guitar), or a wind instrument, such as a flute.

• Sign up to volunteer at one of the participating animal shelters – Currently, Wild Tunes partners with the Houston Human Society, Rosenberg Animal Shelter, BARC, Special Pals, and Citizens for Animal Protection. Interested volunteers can visit the Wild Tunes’ website, www.wildtunes.org to register.

• Visit a shelter – Play music for dogs, cats, and even bunnies!

Students can also earn community service hours by participating in the Wild Tunes program.

“When Yuvi created Wild Tunes, he intended to deliver an outlet that benefitted both animals and humans, and the response has been overwhelming,” said Priyanka. “We are delighted that so many shelters have embraced the idea and look forward to seeing the program continue to grow.

To learn more and to register, visit www.wildtunes.org.

About Wild Tunes

Wild Tunes is a non-profit aimed at soothing shelter animals through music. It was started by 10-year-old Yuvi Agarwal, an animal lover and musician. Wild Tunes’ mission is to enrich the lives of homeless animals by encouraging volunteers to routinely play musical instruments to reduce the animals’ anxiety and prepare them to readjust to humans. For more information, visit www.wildtunes.org or contact director Priyanka Agarwal at priyanka@wildtunes.org.

HOUSTON: For over 35 years, the Indo-American Charity Foundation (IACF) has been a pillar of support for the underserved community of Greater Houston, serving in various areas such as education, family, general welfare and healthcare. The foundation celebrated the beginning of its annual philanthropic efforts with a successful 5K Walk-a-Thon event with the motto “We Walk – We Care” on Saturday, April 13, at Lost Creek Park in Sugar Land.

IACF President Pankaj Rana welcomed the audience with a warm introduction, acknowledging the support from partnering organizations, sponsors, special guests and all attendees. The event’s ribbon-cutting ceremony was a memorable moment, featuring distinguished attendees such as Fort Bend County Judge Mr. KP George, Missouri City Mayor Mr. Robin Elackatt, Judge Mr. Surendran Pattel and Rutvi Chauhan, Mrs. Universe USA 2024, who joined other dignitaries in celebrating the launch of the Walk-a-Thon.

Demonstrating the vibrant spirit of the Indo-American community in Houston, the event focused on raising funds and awareness for the Indian Doctors’ Charity Clinic (IDCC), an organization dedicated to providing free medical services to the underprivileged communities and uninsured, including visiting parents from abroad,  relying entirely on the voluntary efforts of doctors and the generous support of IDA, IACF, and other donors.

IDCC board members, such as K.C. Mehta, Dr. Kiran Gandhi, Dr. Nilesh Patel and Harish Khathrani, attended the event. Dr. Neal Shah along with Shasha & Khushboo played an essential role in providing vital health screenings for over 100 participants, including blood pressure and blood glucose tests.

IACF Team introduced a new concept for Walk-a-Thon which brought together individuals of all ages and backgrounds, making it a truly inclusive, intergenerational experience. Participants ranged from young children in strollers to senior citizens in their 80s, showcasing the community’s collective dedication to supporting IACF and IDCC, promoting better health for all. The grand event wouldn’t have been possible without the leadership & hard work of Pankaj Rana (President), Hasu Patel (President-elect), Rosh Rajan (Secretary), Shephali Kadia (Director) and Ven Bontha (Director).

The event attracted over 250 people, and kept attendees engaged for 3.5 hours of continuous fun and enjoyment. IACF’s preparations were put to test with all hats and t-shirts finding their way to new owners. Brunch, sponsored by Kumar’s Restaurant located on Westheimer, was highlight of the event, with participants enjoying a delectable spread of dosas, vadas, idlis and all accompaniments. This generous contribution by Kumar’s Restaurant further demonstrated the community’s strong spirit of collaboration and service.

Attendees were also treated to a mesmerizing performance by Arjun Ohri, whose soulful singing evoked nostalgia and captivated the audience. The crowd was humming & swaying to his music, making the event a truly unforgettable experience.

A touching moment occurred when the Senior Citizens Association presented a generous donation check to support the Walk-a-Thon, highlighting the depth of community involvement and the broad base of support for the cause.

IACF is launching a new membership program this year, offering opportunities for individuals to become more involved in the foundation’s initiatives. IACF will hold its annual gala on September 14, 2024.

To learn more about IACF, visit www.iacfhouston.com or email iacfpresident@gmail.com Join the foundation to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need.

HOUSTON: On April 7, 2024, BAPS Charities hosted its annual “In the Joy of Others: Walk-
Run” in Houston, TX to support The Walk brought together local community members to take steps together and engage in a form of selfless service to raise awareness for our local school districts, our public servants, and our fallen heroes.

The annual BAPS Charities Walk-Run, occurring in 72 cities across North America champions a diverse range of causes including education, health and wellness, environmental stewardship, humanitarian relief, and support for local police and fire departments. the transformative power of community engagement in fostering healthier societies, symbolizing unity and a commitment to impactful change beyond physical participation.

This year, nearly 2300 community members, including Texas state representative Dr. Suleman
Lalani, joined the effort to support Stafford Municipal School District, Behind the Badges and
Stafford Police Department. The event showcased a broad spectrum of participation, from youth
to seniors, united for a common cause.

Lt. Luciano Lopez of Stafford Police Department reflected on the event’s significance, saying,
that on his first attendance of the walk that he was amazed to see so many people on a Sunday
morning.

Event lead, Tej Pandya provided insights into the event’s success, and expressed gratitude towards participants and fundraisers, saying, “it’s great to see so many from our community to come together for such a great cause and this impact will not only be locally but throughout the nation.”

Beyond the annual Walk-Run, BAPS Charities is dedicated to five fundamental areas: Health Awareness, Educational Services, Humanitarian Relief, Environmental Protection & Preservation, and Community Empowerment. With active operations across nine countries and five continents, the organization is deeply involved in providing humanitarian aid both locally and internationally. Specifically, in North America, BAPS Charities has organized more than 1,000 walks and 500 health fairs, offering free health services to over 130,000 individuals.
Additionally, it has conducted 500 blood donation drives, which have collected enough blood to potentially save 56,000 lives and delivered over 5,000 health awareness lectures. On a global scale, BAPS Charities has made significant environmental contributions by planting over 2 million trees, constructing 55 schools in regions hit by disasters, and offering humanitarian assistance to over 1,000 refugees from the Ukraine conflict in 2022. For more information on the local activities of BAPS Charities, please visit www.bapscharities.org.

About BAPS Charities

BAPS Charities is a global charity active in nine countries across five continents. With over 50 years of experience in humanitarian work, BAPS Charities aims to establish a spirit of selfless service through health awareness, educational services, humanitarian relief, environmental protection & preservation, and community empowerment. In critical times, BAPS Charities has swiftly responded to the needs of affected communities, mobilizing volunteers, and resources to provide crucial aid. From local activities such as hosting community health fairs to global efforts like sustaining schools and hospitals, BAPS Charities provides a platform for individuals wishing to serve locally and globally. For additional information on BAPS Charities and its international and local philanthropic activities, please visit www.bapscharities.org

HOUSTON: April 8, 2024 marks CRY, Child Rights and You America’s 20th year of ensuring children’s rights to a happy, healthy & educated life. Join us for an evening of reflection & celebration as we express our gratitude to our community of supporters from Houston, share our achievements & unveil our future goals at our CRY Gala on Sunday, April 21 at the Marriott Sugar Land.

The event will be attended by Celebrity Arjun Rampal, Project Partner Dr Rolee Singh and will honor our long-term supporters Juuhi and Prakash Ahuja. The evening will include a cocktail hour with hors d’oeuvres, entertainment by violinist Esther Anaya & Karmagraphy, live auction, dinner, donor appreciation and pledge session, Bollywood music and dancing. A live auction will showcase autographed guitar by the Rolling Stones, Michael Jordan Chicago Bulls Jersey, Start Wars Cast Movie Poster etc.

Your unwavering support has been the driving force behind our mission of creating happier childhoods. Proceeds from the CRY Gala’s will be directed towards ensuring thousands of underprivileged children are ensured their basic rights to live, learn, grow and play. Together let’s make this 20-year milestone a testament to our shared commitment of shaping children’s destinies with YOU!

About CRY America:

CRY, Child Rights and You America Inc (CRY America) is a 501c3 non-profit driven by its vision of a just world in which all children have equal opportunities to develop to their full potential and realize their dreams. With the support of over 20,885 donors and 2,000 volunteers, CRY America has impacted the lives of 450,832 children living across 2,642 villages and slums through support to 70 Projects in India and USA. For more information: contact Dina Patel at 617-981-2288; visit http://america.cry.org or write to support@cryamerica.org 

HOUSTON: The highly anticipated Pratham Houston Gala was held on Saturday, March 23, 2024 this year. The event brought together the city’s Indian-American community to raise awareness and funding for the charity’s learning programs for children and young people in under-served communities in India. There were performances by contestants of Indian Idol- Mohammad Danish and Shanmukh Priya. 

The event featured a fireside chat with Dr. Rajiv Shah, President of the Rockefeller Foundation. “Like Pratham, I have worked for years to ensure that every child has the right to a better future. Education and opportunity go hand in hand. I’m pleased to visit Houston and speak with Pratham’s supporters. Together, we can ensure millions of children have access to the high-quality education they deserve,” shared Dr. Rajiv Shah.

Pratham Board Chair, Dhiren Shethia said, “Learning changes lives and transforms communities. If there is a gift that can change someone’s future – that gift is learning. For almost 30 years donors in the US Pratham community have given this gift to millions of children and youth in India.”

Capturing stories from the field, Priyanka Ghosh, Director of Communications at Pratham USA interacted with Siddhi, a young woman from India who through Pratham’s Second Chance program got an opportunity to finish her class 10 certification. 

Dr. Vikram Gopal, Co-President of the Pratham Houston chapter, shared “Just like different threads of the weave: Pratham weaves together children, youth and communities through its learning programs. While the Pratham tapestry begins with individual threads, it finishes with a beautiful story of transformation of communities and stakeholders. We invite you to build the tapestry of learning with Pratham.”

Mr. Pradip Seernani, Co-President of the Pratham Houston chapter, shared “Pratham’s mission indeed changes lives. This organization has given millions of children and young people, in India and beyond, the chance to learn – and keep learning. From the early years through to adulthood. Both inside and outside formal educational settings. At home, in the community and online. A special thank you to the corporate sponsors: Wells Fargo, Amegy Bank, Ascend Performance Materials, Bank of America, Gordon Montgomery Barnett, Packwell, Chugh LLP, Bank of Texas and KPMG for their partnership.”

The funds raised at the Houston Gala will provide much needed support to children in India, giving them an opportunity to learn. 

prathamusa.org 

ABOUT PRATHAM 

Pratham works with the belief that every child should be in school and learning well. With almost 30 years’ experience of working in India and beyond, Pratham changes the lives of over 5 million children and young people every year.

Pratham’s work has been recognized through major International awards, including the Asia Game Changer Award, the BBVA Frontiers of Knowledge Award, the WISE Prize for Education, the Henry R. Kravis Leadership Prize, the Skoll Award for Social Entrepreneurship, and most recently the 2018 LUI Che Woo Prize.

Pratham USA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with 14 chapters across the United States that raise awareness and mobilize financial resources. The volunteer-driven organization ranks among the top 2% of all nonprofits in America, consistently achieving a four-star rating from Charity Navigator for “sound fiscal management” and “commitment to accountability and transparency.” For more information, visit prathamusa.org.

By Bhamy V. Shenoy

I want to share a great opportunity but simple way to get involved in fighting corruption and poverty in India, a cherished goal of all of us. You can achieve this from the comforts of the house. This is based on my experience of working with two NGOs – one in Delhi and the other in Mysuru.

I have been associated with a Delhi based NGO, Consumer Voice (https://consumer-voice.org). Additionally I have been involved in Consumer Movement in Mysuru where I had founded Mysuru Grahakara Parishat in 1989. CV has the right vaccination to fight the corruption virus. But they need your help to administer it.

More than likely, you might already be involved in helping several worthy causes in India. I implore those of you who have a better appreciation of what a vibrant consumer movement can do, may be interested to help Consumer Voice to establish a world class “CONSUMER EDUCATION AND RESEARCH INSTITUTE” in Delhi. We all know what a vibrant consumer movement started by Ralph Nader achieved in the US.

Funds needed are just one million dollars for the construction and launching of the CV facility. The following para briefly gives you an idea of what CV has been doing. To learn more, please visit their web site. I am sure you will all be impressed and wonder how you have not heard of such a fine institution.

As a first and immediate first step, please subscribe to their monthly magazine which gives useful information to buy the right product. Subscription Cost is just Rs. 150 ( less than per year and the details to subscribe are on the website.

VOICE is an acronym for Voluntary Organization in Interest of Consumer Education which has pioneered the protection of consumers in India. Based in New Delhi, the organization has championed consumer education in the country since 1983. Former Justices of Supreme Court, P N Bhagwati and V M Tarkunde were some of the founders of CV.

Over the years, VOICE has been representing consumers and protecting their interests with policymakers, the judiciary and statutory regulatory bodies. From 1991 onwards, VOICE has been spearheading an independent and non-partisan program on “comparative testing of products” with the technical support of Stiftung Warentest of Germany.

VOICE activities have been supported by the government of India’s Ministry of Consumer Affairs besides other ministries and departments.

VOICE provides independent and unbiased reviews of food products, consumer durables, financial and banking services and much more. It also runs a legal helpdesk for consumers.

Let me end my request with an example of Mysuru Grahakara Parishat, a consumer protection NGO. It played some role in practically eliminating corruption in Public Distribution of Kerosene and residential LPG by exposing the quantum of corruption and ways of reducing it since its inception.

Distribution of these two products used to generate as much as Rs. 50,000 crores of black money ( about six billion dollars) per year. This was really the mother of all corruption. Thanks to the application of direct benefit transfer to the banks by the current government, this kind of corruption is practically eliminated today. Since Consumer Voice is helping the government to shape policies affecting consumer interests, it can play similar role in bringing about systemic changes resulting in reduction in corruption.

It is worth recalling the words of Swami Vivekananda “So long as the millions live in hunger and ignorance, I hold every man a traitor who, having been educated at their expense, pays not the least heed to them.”

( Bhamy V Shenoy, bhamysuman@gmail.com. Phone: 346-812-2783)

A Lesson in Compassion and Community Engagement

HOUSTON: In a heartening demonstration of empathy and community spirit, a group of enthusiastic school kids from Gurudwara Sahib of Southwest Houston (GSSWH) actively volunteered their time at the Houston Food Bank, proving that age is no barrier when it comes to making a positive impact on the lives of others. This was an embodiment of “Sewa” (selfless service), one of the core beliefs of Sikhism. The event was organized by a long time GSSWH member, Mr. Harvinder Singh and his 12-yr old son Karanveer Singh.

A Lesson Beyond the Classroom: GSSWH Students Take Action

The young minds at GSSWH School are learning a different kind of lesson – one that goes beyond the classroom walls. Led by their compassionate teachers and parents, these students have embraced the value of giving back to the community through hands-on volunteering at the local food bank.

One in five southeast Texas children is considered food insecure, which means they don’t have consistent access to enough nutritious food. Many of these children rely on school meals to provide breakfast and lunch during the school year. During breaks, such as weekends and holidays, many of these children go home to little or no meals. The HFB’s Backpack Buddy program provides nutritious, child-friendly food for under privileged school children to take home over the weekend.

Little Hands, Big Hearts: School Kids Make a Difference

With an eagerness to help, the school kids from GSSWH can be found diligently sorting and packing food items at the Houston Food Bank. Their small but mighty contributions made an impact on the organization’s ability to provide for those facing food insecurity in the community.

“GSSWH Punjabi School believes in instilling values that go beyond academics. Volunteering at the food bank is a tangible way for our students to understand the importance of Sewa, the selfless service fostering love, compassion and empathy for others including social responsibility,” says Mrs. Manmeet Likhari, the school Director.

Fostering a Sense of Responsibility: Students Shine as Community Leaders

The volunteering initiative has not only provided practical assistance to the food bank but has also nurtured a sense of responsibility and leadership among the students. As they work side by side with their parents and fellow volunteers, the young volunteers are discovering the power they hold to effect positive change in the lives of others.

“Our students are not just learning about the world; they are actively shaping it. Volunteering at the food bank allows them to see the direct impact of their efforts and reinforces the idea that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference,” adds Mr. Harvinder Singh.

A Call for Unity: How You Can Support GSSWH School’s Volunteering Efforts

As GSSWH School continues to nurture these young hearts, they extend an open invitation to the broader community to support their volunteering initiatives. Whether through donations, mentorship, or joining in volunteer activities, there are numerous ways for individuals and businesses to contribute to the cause. For more information on how to get involved with GSSWH School’s community service initiatives, please contact Punjabi School of GSSWH at punjabischoolgsswh@gmail.com.

HOUSTON: The Houston Chapter of Sewa International celebrated its annual gala on December 10th, highlighting its achievements and raising funds for various humanitarian projects. The event, named “H.E.L.P. 2023” (Help Every Life Prosper), concluded the year embodied in Selfless Service to the local community.

The Gala held at the GSH event center was sold-out and attended by 525 guests. The evening’s Emcee, Dr Subodh Bhuchar, was welcomed by Sewa Houston Chapter Executive Director, Kavita Tewary. The event started with
a graceful dance tribute to Lord Ganesha by the students of the ‘Shivangini Academy of Performing Arts’ (Guru Shiva Mathur).

Nikhil Jain, Houston Chapter Coordinator of Sewa International, thanked the audience for their support and shared the impactful achievements of the past year. He urged the community to continue with their generous contributions.
Several videos were shown to showcase the work of the Sewa Houston chapter, including work by the ‘AmeriCorps’ team and of the ‘Family Services’ team.

Chris Osentowski, the CEO of HCA Houston Healthcare Medical Center, delivered an enthralling keynote speech highlighting the value of the collaboration between HCA and Sewa. He encouraged everyone to support Sewa’s community service efforts with their donations.

Consul General of India, D C Manjunath, was the chief guest for the evening. He addressed the audience and emphasized the need for collaboration and cooperation. One of the memorable moments of the event was listening to the stories of some of the people who have been helped by Sewa, such as Ms. Misti Bass, Jesus Torres, Kids from the three education centers (ASPIRE), that Sewa operates in Southwest Houston) and a few others who shared their experiences through video messages about the help they received from Sewa’s Family Services team.

The PVSA award ceremony was a proud moment for the 42 youth volunteers from Sewa International who had dedicated their time and energy to serve the community. Kelly Waterman, representing Senator Ted Cruz, handed out the certificates to the awardees during the PVSA award ceremony that was held before the Gala event. The PVSA award is a national honor that recognizes volunteer commitment and service. The nine Sewa High School Ambassadors were also acknowledged for their leadership and contribution.

The Gala was attended by more than 20 elected officials, including US Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Fort Bend County Judge K P George and State Representative Gene Wu, who delivered proclamations from their offices.
A proclamation was also received from Congressman Al Green’s Office. A donation supporting Sewa’s cause was made by the Fort Bend County Commissioner Andy Meyers.

Dr Subodh Bhuchar made the pledge announcement and held an inspiring on-stage interaction with well-known Houston philanthropist Swatantra Jain about the joy of giving back to the community.

The audience were spellbound by the melodies renditioned by ‘Rhythm of Dreams’, who presented ‘The Sound of Fusion – a musical journey’ featuring Bollywood songs. The singers, Salil Bhadekar and Payal Mitra, delivered
soulful performances with the support of three talented musicians – Shrikant Pabrekar, Atif Ali and Darshak Thacker.

The event also showcased “Dhun”, an A cappella group from The University of Houston, who impressed everyone with their vocal skills. The evening ended with a vote of thanks from Houston Chapter Jt. Coordinator, Anup Bhasin, who acknowledged the contributions of the donors, organization partners, media partners, performers, volunteers, Sewa’s core team and the elected officials who attended the event. The guests enjoyed a delicious multi-course dinner catered by ‘Indian Summer’. The ‘Rhythm of Dreams’ artists kept the entertainment going during and after the dinner, forcing the audience to join them on the dance floor.

Pramod Bengani, Chief Trustee, ICC said – “I would like to extend my warmest congratulations on another successful year of service, which beautifully culminated in today’s fund-raising gala. The program was excellently organized. Thank you for your continuous efforts in service and community building. Your dedication is truly commendable.”

Photo Credits – Navin Mediwala and Dr Nik Nikam

HOUSTON: The Indian Community of Greater Houston thanks all our brave veterans for their service. This Veterans Day, Nov. 11th, I Am For Heroes have joined hands with the Houston Indian American Restaurateurs Association to offer a Free Meal to All US Veterans at the following participating Indian Restaurants across Greater Houston.

Alings Chinese Bistro: Indo-Chinese food, 6542 US-90 ALT, Sugar Land, TX 77498

Ashiana: Authentic Indian Cuisine, 12610 Briar Forest Dr, Houston, TX 77077 Bawarchi Indian Cuisine: Specialty
Indian cuisine, 2922 Hillcroft Ave, Houston, TX 77057

Biryani Factory: Serves Hyderabadi style biryani, 5711 Hillcroft Ave B4, Houston, TX 77036

Desi delights: Authentic Pan Indian & Pakistani Cuisine located at 1912 Wescott Avenue Suite 200, Sugar Land TX

Egg Mania: Specialized Indian Egg Delicacies 6688 Southwest Fwy Houston TX 77074

Elite Restaurant: Fine dining Indo Pak restaurant, 11941 S Texas 6, Sugar Land, TX 77498

Gayatri Bhavan: Authentic South Indian vegetarian and vegan cuisine, 14800 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77082

Indian Summers: Modern take on TRADITIONAL Indian dishes, 16260 Kensington Dr, Suite B, Sugar Land, TX 77478

Maharaja Bhog: Unlimited sit-down premium veg buffet, 8338 Southwest Fwy, Houston, TX
77074

Mirch Masala: Authentic Indian Vegetarian food, 10758 Cypress Creek Pkwy, Houston, TX 77070

Monks: Indo Chinese cuisine, 6439 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77057

Please provide Military ID or proof of service. Free meals do not include alcoholic beverages, where available.

HOUSTON: Sewa International expresses deep concern for the people affected by the recent terrorist attacks in Israel. Our philosophy, grounded in the age-old Hindu traditions, promotes the well-being of all and the sanctity of life.

We stand in solidarity with the innocent victims of these attacks and offer our thoughts and prayers to grieving families. As a volunteer-led non-profit with experience serving in almost 40 disasters worldwide, Sewa understands the devastating impact of senseless attacks on societies and families. We urge all groups involved in this conflict to protect innocent lives and avoid further violence.

Sewa International has started a fundraising campaign to support the victims and their families affected by this tragic and heart-wrenching situation. We appeal to all Americans to generously donate to Sewa to help the relief efforts in Israel and be a part of the healing process: https://www.facebook.com/donate/173338982485592/ or https://sewausa.org/SupportIsra
elWarReliefFundraiser.

About Sewa International
Sewa International (www.sewausa.org) is a 501 (c) (3) Hindu faith-based charitable nonprofit that works in the areas of disaster recovery, education, and development. Sewa has 43 Chapters across the USA and serves regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, or national origin.

By Jawahar Malhotra

STAFFORD, TX: It was a case of deja-vu as the Indo American Charity Foundation once again turned to a format for its 36^th Annual Gala, which had worked well for it in the past. Who, after all, could turn down a Casino Night, especially if was tagged as a “Play to Win, Win to Give” opportunity that would benefit many local charities?

Judging from the 320 people who attended the Gala on Saturday, September 9 at the Stafford Centre on Cash Road, very few could resist the temptation to try their luck at Poker, Roulette or Chaps knowing their gaming would support others in need.

Adding to the allure was an entertainment show that featured the very funny comedian Paul Vargheese who has often performed in Houston followed by a dance segment by Meckka Dance Project, a National award winning competition and performing arts company; and some Bollywood dance numbers by the Team Synergy troupe.

As if that wasn’t enough of a distraction while playing Blackjack, Subodh Bhucchar, always in demand at many galas as auctioneer, managed to raise the ante for fund collections by pushing up the prices on many items, including dinner at Mahesh’s Kitchen and Indian Summer restaurant. Lest we forget, the cuisine was the evening was brought out by Dawat Catering.

Among the guests were several elected officials – Stafford City Mayor Ken Mathew, Ft Bend County District Attorney Brain Middleton, Ft Bend Commissioners Court Judge K. P. George, and Fort Bend County Justice of the Peace, Precinct 3 Sonia Rash.

Keynote Speaker for the evening was Arjun Sen, CEO of ZenMango, who is a former Fortune 500 executive, an acclaimed Brand Zen® and one of the top growth drivers in the Brand and Customer Experience space. At Papa John’s, he led the 3,000-restaurant chain to 4-years of record growth. He is a celebrated author of the book Customer Karma. Sen spoke of the ways to overcome fear and work with it instead.

During the year, the IACF awarded scholarships to 26 students from Fort Bend, Katy, and Alief ISD, with a total value of $40,000; held a Walkathon to raise money and made annual grants to  18 charities, totaling $52,000. The IACF website has also been updated and now features a Digital Payments tab; while the IACF has increased visibility in social media. This year’s Gala was estimated to have raised $125,000.

Reflecting on these milestones, Rajesh Dikonda, President of IACF said “We are so grateful for the support of our community. The funds raised tonight will help us to continue our work of providing essential services to those in need.”

HOUSTON:  Upma and Mukulesh Shah hosted an evening fundraiser benefiting the Akshaya Patra Foundation at their residence in Sugar Land on September 8, 2023. The event was graced by the presence of the renowned Celebrity Chef, Sanjeev Kapoor. The Shahs’ home was brimming with invited guests, including leaders from the Akshaya Patra Houston Chapter, AP’s National Development Director, Shree Sanjeev Kapoor, and the delightful bride, Mrs. Alonya Kapoor.

Akshaya Patra, the world’s largest NGO in India, provides over 2.0+ million mid-day meals to children in government schools, ensuring no child is deprived of education due to hunger. To further this noble cause, sponsors Upma & Mukulesh Shah, along with their generous guests, raised a substantial sum to help feed hungry children.

The event featured a captivating cooking demonstration by Chef Kapoor, showcasing a recipe chosen by the hosts. Chef Kapoor prepared one of his recent favorites, a popular dish highlighting the use of millet – Samo Kheer. As 2023 is the year of Millet in India, promoting a healthy diet, the Kheer was garnished with mixed berries and nuts, delighting all attendees. For those unable to get close to the cooking counter, the demonstration was displayed on large-screen TVs throughout the house.

Following the cooking demonstration, Chef Kapoor, Emcee Mayur Shah, and the Akshaya Patra Houston Chapter Team led a fundraising activity. Host Upma Shah made a heartfelt appeal to her guests, urging them to support Akshaya Patra by donating to help feed hungry children in India. Janardan Thakkar, a member of the board of directors of Akshaya Patra Foundation USA, delivered a keynote message in support of the foundation. Masala Radio personalities Sunil Thakkar and Dilip Kanabar attended the event and generously donated to Akshaya Patra.

The evening continued with a delectable dinner and Hindi melodies performed by a local professional singer, Mr. Rajesh Vishwakarma, and an associate. The festivities concluded around 10:00 PM.

We deeply appreciate the unwavering dedication and tireless efforts of the Houston Chapter Leaders and team, including Mr. Ashok Shah, Mr. Sanjeev Yamdagni, Mr. Mayur Shah, Mr. Ashish Mehta, Mr. Anand Arya, Mr. Samrat & Jayanti Bera, Mrs. Vaijayanthi Negamanthan, Mrs. Maithily Shah, Mrs. Jhilmil Yamdagni, and Mrs. Linda Thakkar.

The Shah Family – Upma, Mukulesh, Neerav, Noopur, and Ronak – displayed remarkable generosity in support of the Akshaya Patra Foundation and its mission to provide meals to hungry school-going children in India. On behalf of the Akshaya Patra Houston Chapter and our national foundation, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for their invaluable support.