Houston, TX, (May 31, 2025): Venkat Chundi, CEO, and Dr. Radhakishore, Director, of Centillion Networks Pvt. Ltd. contributed ₹25 lakhs ($30,000) towards Sewa International’s Kashmir Relief Efforts. Dr. Radhakishore handed over the check at Sewa's Delhi office to Global Coordinator, Shyam Parande, and Executive Director, Jinesh Lal.

Venkat Chundi said, “What we have offered is just a drop in the ocean. But even a drop can create ripples, reinforcing the commitment to meaningful action.” Expressing gratitude, Shyam Parande said, “We sincerely thank Shri. Venkat Chundi and Dr. Radhakishore, for their kindness and commitment to the welfare of humanity, as it strengthens our mission to serve those in need.” The donation supports Sewa’s “Rising from Terror” campaign, launched in Houston on May 14. The campaign provides relief to families affected by recent terrorist violence along the India-Pakistan border. The initiative delivers emergency aid, trauma support, and rehabilitation services to affected communities in Jammu & Kashmir.

Dr. Radha Kishore, Director of Centillion Networks, handed the check to Shyam Parande, Global Secretary of Sewa International, accompanied by Jineshlal R.V., Executive Director (from left to right)

The ₹25 lakh contribution will help rebuild homes, provide essential supplies, and support families displaced by the conflict. One rebuilt home costs ₹125,000 ($1,500), while ration and utility kits cost ₹8,000 ($100) per family.

Centillion Networks also launched a matching program. For every ₹100 contributed by employees, the company matches it with another ₹100. This program deepens employee engagement and scales the impact of their giving.

Sewa International and Centillion Networks announced a CSR partnership to support long-term development projects in Jammu & Kashmir. The partnership was inaugurated at Sewa’s Delhi office with Dr. Radhakishore, Shyam Parande, Jinesh Lal, and the Sewa team in attendance. This collaboration combines Centillion’s technical expertise with Sewa’s grassroots experience. Together, they aim to implement targeted programs for recovery and rebuilding in conflict-affected areas.

Sewa volunteers assessed a home damaged by cross-border shelling and drone strikes

The recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam and the following India-Pakistan military engagement displaced thousands and left families struggling to survive. People have lost homes, livelihoods, and access to necessities. The situation remains tense.

Sewa is working with partner groups to provide ration kits, medical aid, trauma counseling, and shelter. Teams are arranging safe travel for stranded victims and tourists. Community kitchens and health camps are also active in the region.

Executive Director Jinesh Lal said, “With 25 years of experience in disaster response, we remain committed to timely and transparent aid. While the government works to restore order, voluntary groups must step in to address immediate gaps.”

He added that Sewa will continue to provide shelter, repair damaged homes, and distribute essential supplies based on local needs. Sewa is also conducting needs assessments to plan further interventions.

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.

Houston (May 9, 2025) - In the wake of escalating violence along the India-Pakistan border, Sewa International has launched a fundraising campaign aimed at providing critical relief to the families affected by recent attacks. The Campaign, titled “Rising From Terror”, seeks to deliver urgent humanitarian aid to communities affected by terrorism, as well as provide support for disaster preparedness in terror-stricken regions.

The violence, which began with the loss of innocent lives in a terrorist attack on Hindu tourists in Pahalgam, was followed by a retaliatory military response from Pakistan, escalating tensions. Pakistan’s strikes, which targeted civilian areas, resulted in the deaths of at least 16 innocent civilians and left thousands of families displaced, suffering from the destruction of their homes and communities.

People grieving after the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India. Photo Courtesy: https://organiser.org

“Our mission is clear,” said Srikanth Gundavarapu, Sewa’s National President. “In the face of terror and violence, we will respond with resilience, compassion, and unwavering support. This Campaign is about healing, not just the physical wounds, but the emotional and psychological scars left by this violence. We stand united with the families affected by this tragedy and will help them rebuild their lives.”

Pahalgam meadows after the terrorist attack. Photo Courtesy: https://organiser.org

What the Campaign Supports:

The Resilience Fund is dedicated to:

• Emergency relief: food, shelter, medical supplies, and emergency services for those directly affected.
• Trauma recovery: mental health support and counseling for children and families who have experienced profound loss.
• Rebuilding efforts: restoring homes, schools, and infrastructure to help communities return to normalcy
• Disaster preparedness: investing in long-term strategies to protect vulnerable communities in terror-stricken areas.

Humanitarian Principles at the Core

In a time when violence often overwhelms the human spirit, the organization is committed to upholding the sanctity of life and providing support based on the universal values of compassion, respect, and unity.

“The targeting of innocent civilians is a clear violation of international humanitarian law and the norms that bind us as a global community. When such violations occur, it is not only a matter of national politics - it is a collective responsibility of the international community to stand in solidarity with the victims,” said Rakhi Israni, Sewa National Spokesperson and attorney, “We must uphold the principles of justice and humanity, ensuring that those who suffer from such violations receive the support they deserve.”

How You Can Help

Supporters are encouraged to visit www.sewausa.org/HopeandHumanity to donate directly to the Resilience Fund. Contributions will provide immediate assistance and long-term solutions for those affected by the violence, ensuring that the communities on the frontlines of this conflict can recover, rebuild, and become more resilient in the face of future challenges.

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.

San Francisco, (May 8, 2025): Sewa International USA, the leading Hindu faith-based non-profit organization, announced a change in leadership at its 19th National Conference held in San Francisco from May 3 to 5. Srikanth Gundavarapu, a prominent Indian American businessman from Atlanta, GA became its fifth president, taking over from Arun Kankani who helmed the organization for the past five years.

Suresh Jain, the chairman of Sewa's Board of Directors, informed attendees that Arun Kankani, Sewa's outgoing president, would continue to serve as Sewa's Executive Vice President, guiding its operations. He announced that the San Antonio Chapter will host Sewa’s 20th National Conference.

The conference brought together over 140 volunteers, including Sewa's directors, advisory board members, executive team leaders, chapter presidents, coordinators, and other functionaries. Led by an all-volunteer executive team, Sewa has earned a distinction of serving in over 34 disasters since its inception in India in the 1980s as a social movement.

Volunteers gathered for a group photo during Sewa International’s 19th National Conference in San Francisco, CA

Kankani, who led the organization to unprecedented heights during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, when COVID-19 ravaged the world, Sewa volunteers risked their lives to serve across US cities by distributing millions of pounds of food, over 750,000 masks, and more than 100,000 hot meals to first responders, caregivers, and the general public. It also saved several lives by sending over 10,000 oxygen concentrators to India during the pandemic.

Ranked at the Top

Srikanth Gundavarapu, Sewa’s new president, opened his company's warehouse in Atlanta to store oxygen concentrators before shipping them to India. As the Atlanta chapter president, he led Sewa's national COVID-19 “war room” in Atlanta. Over 4,500 Sewa volunteers served in the US during the pandemic. Sewa collected $45 million in 2021 from 140,000 donors. Benevity ranked Sewa among the top 10 charitable organizations supported by employers and their employees in 2021.

Accepting his new responsibility, Gundavarapu said, "I'll lean on the strong shoulders that built this foundation. Sewa, which began as a small organization in an Atlanta garage, has now grown into an entity with strong systems and processes. Sewa's real strength lies in its thousands of volunteers and donors nationwide. Their dedication and hard work have built Sewa, and I am proud to carry forward its legacy".

Reflecting on Sewa’s journey, Prof. Anurag Mairal (standing)moderated the Chat with Presidents Srikanth Gundavarapu, Arun Kankani, Prof. Sree Srinath , Gautam Desai, and Srikant Konda (from left to right)

Platform for Good-Hearted

Arun Kankani smiled at being described as the wartime president of Sewa by Dr. Anurag Mairal, the organization's Bay Area Chapter President, and a Professor at Stanford University. Kankani spoke about Sewa's COVID response during a chat moderated by Dr. Mairal.

"Within four months, we had launched 26 unique initiatives—all bottom-up, volunteer-led responses to community needs. It felt effortless only because we were prepared. The organization's strength in 2020 came from years of groundwork, strong teams, and incredible volunteers. We have a great team. We are fortunate to have such committed, selfless volunteers,” Kankani said.

Sewa's founding President, Srikant Konda, participated in the chat and recalled the organization’s humble beginnings—forming chapters, raising local funds, and managing logistics with minimal resources. Sewa's second President, Gautam Desai, spoke of serving locally in the US, starting with Hurricane Katrina and the Bhutanese Refugee Empowerment Project across the US cities, and expanding its focus on international causes. Prof. Sree Srinath, who served for a decade as Sewa’s third president, recalled building systems and scaling Sewa into a nationally effective organization.

Outgoing President Arun Kankani (left) and new President Srikanth Gundavarapu (right)

Leadership Means Care

In the concluding session, Advisory Board Member Saumitra Gokhale said, "This gathering reminded us that our progress stems not from chance, but from sustained effort, planning, and the dedication of volunteers over two decades. The presence of past presidents highlights that in Sewa, leadership isn't about titles—it's about continued service." Like geese flying in formation, leaders rotate to share responsibility, ensuring steady movement. In Sewa, leadership means care, collaboration, and continuity,” he said.

Sewa's board members, Dr. Ajay Singhal, Sridhar Talanki, Vishal Khera, and Sewa's Advisory Board Members, Shyam Parande, and Yashwant Pathak, attended the conference.

About Srikanth Gundavarapu

President of GC Ingredients Inc. and Primaria Nutrition, businesses specializing in custom food ingredient blends and nutritional premixes, he has recently served as Sewa’s Vice President of Fund Development. He holds a Master's Degree in Food Science from the University of Georgia.

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.

Houston, TX, (April 28, 2025): Sewa International hosted the Green Summit: Small Steps, Big Impact virtually on April 26, drawing over 150 attendees. The summit, featuring panelists from prominent environmental organizations, emphasized practical actions toward building a sustainable future.

The first panel focused on “Clean Energy and Ocean Health”. Moderator and host Rakhi Israni, Sewa International’s Vice President of Government Relations, reflected on Earth Month, reminding attendees of the deep connection between humanity and the planet. Laura Bartsch, Strategic Advisor at the Carbon League, and Stewart Sarkozy-Banoczy, Managing Director and CEO of the World Ocean Council, led the conversation on clean energy innovation and ocean conservation.

Moderator and host Rakhi Israni (top left), Strategic Advisor at the Carbon League, Laura Bartsch (top right), and Managing Director and CEO of the World Ocean Council, Sarkozy-Banoczy (bottom) at the Green Summit

Laura Bartsch, architect and designer, said achieving 100% clean energy is possible today, though significant policy challenges remain. Bartsch expressed strong support for offshore wind energy, noting that Rhode Island—where she lives—was the first U.S. state to install ocean-based wind turbines. Bartsch highlighted the importance of local initiatives, citing New York City's congestion pricing as an example. She explained that not only has traffic been reduced, the policy also supports the adoption of cleaner energy options like electric and hydrogen-powered buses, funded through the revenue generated. She stressed that small changes, like adding bike lanes, can shift behaviors and build sustainable cities. Bartsch concluded by encouraging a focus on policy over politics.

Founder of Addressing Wellness and Equity, Lipika Devara, (top left), Director at Clean Fairfax, Jennifer Cole (top right), founder of Kaizen Life, Rashmi Prabhu (bottom left), and Director of the SERVE Program, Rohit Deshpande (bottom right), present at the Green Summit

CEO of the World Ocean Council, Sarkozy-Banoczy, stressed the oceans' critical role in carbon absorption and climate regulation. He explained that industries tied to the sea, such as shipping and fishing, must go beyond minimizing harm to actively restoring ecosystems. Warning against corporate green-washing and blue-washing, he urged consumers to scrutinize environmental claims critically, ensuring that initiatives drive meaningful, systemic change.

Young leaders, Ira Gramopadhye and Lipika Devara, offered some practical insights, including essential composting tips, emphasizing simple methods to reduce household waste. Lipika Devera led a discussion on sustainability challenges, featuring contributions from Jennifer Cole and Rashmi Prabhu, who addressed waste management improvements and the dangers of fast fashion. Rohit Deshpande underscored the impact of community volunteerism through Sewa’s SERVE program’s initiatives, including cleanups and tree planting efforts.

Researcher in composting, Ira Gramopadhye, at the Green Summit

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.

Houston, TX (April 14, 2025): In response to the catastrophic earthquake that struck Thailand and neighboring regions on March 28, Sewa International has launched a 24/7 Help Desk in Bangkok's Chatuchak District, started a community kitchen and serving over 4,000 hot meals daily, and delivered 50 boxes of life-saving medicines.

Sewa volunteers distributed over 80 boxes of food, 2,000 face masks, and several cartons of water, juices, and drinks. Sewa installed surgical lights at Sagaing General Hospital to enable emergency night procedures. Additionally, Sewa has provided UV-resistant tarpaulins, solar lanterns, tents, blankets, and plastic floor sheets to displaced families.

Sewa volunteers handed over critical life-saving medicines to officials in earthquake-affected areas of Thailand

In a notable gesture of recognition of its work, Sewa’s team met with the Governor of Bangkok, Chadchart Sittipunt, to share the scope of ongoing efforts and plans. In Thailand, Sewa teams are also supporting SAR-K9 search operations by providing aid to rescue dogs and first responders.

Meanwhile, in the hardest-hit regions of Sagaing, Mandalay, and Nay Pyi Taw, teams led by Dr. Ram Niwas are conducting assessments, distributing aid, and identifying the needs of Thai and Burmese victims, including those still trapped in the debris.

“Sewa International has carried out relief efforts in coordination with the Embassy of India, Yangon, the Government of India, and local partner organizations, including the Hindu Family Relief Group,” said Shyam Parande, Global Coordinator of Sewa International.

“In every disaster, responding with compassion and kindness is our sacred duty,” he said. “We are committed to providing timely relief and being respectful while serving. Our teams are working closely with local partners, the Indian Embassy in Yangon, and community volunteers to meet urgent needs on the ground,” said Parande.

According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA), the disaster has claimed more than 3,600 lives, injured over 5,000 individuals, and displaced millions. About 160 people are still reported missing.

Sewa is serving over 4,000 hot meals daily to families in earthquake-hit regions of Thailand

Relief efforts in Thailand have also received support from the Sikh community, who donated food, sanitary supplies, and bottled water. Working with the Royal Family Reserve Command, the Thai Disaster Relief Team, the Reserve Army, and local organizations such as the Hindu Family Relief Group, Sewa volunteers are actively coordinating field operations.

Donors can support Sewa’s Thailand’s recovery effort here:

Website - https://sewausa.org/ThailandEarthquakeRelief

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/1EoyKPYahP/

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.

Houston, April 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Sewa International USA has launched immediate relief operations following the catastrophic 7.7 magnitude earthquake, followed by a powerful 6.4 magnitude aftershock that struck Southeast Asia on March 28. As a leading global humanitarian organization, Sewa has activated its emergency response teams to provide critical aid to devastated communities in Thailand.

A building collapsed due to the recent earthquake.

The earthquake has claimed over 2,700 lives and left thousands injured amid widespread destruction across Thailand, Laos, and parts of southern China. In Bangkok, Thailand, rescuers are trying to save over 70 people trapped under the rubble of a collapsed 30-story building. In Laos, remote villages have been cut off from aid due to damaged infrastructure, while southern China has reported significant damage to buildings and roadways. Survivors across the region face acute shortages of shelter, food, and medical care. Sewa International's teams are working alongside local partners to address these urgent needs.

The first Sewa shipment of medicine left the port at Vishakhapatanam, India, on March 30.

Sewa Relief for the Earthquake Victims
"Our global emergency response network allows us to deliver immediate relief to disaster victims worldwide," said Swadesh Katoch, Vice President of Disaster Relief at Sewa International. "We've already dispatched essential medical supplies to the region and are coordinating the delivery of 1,000 sleeping bags and additional relief materials. The scale of this disaster requires a sustained response, and Sewa is committed to supporting survivors through immediate relief and long-term recovery efforts."

Sewa International USA is a humanitarian nonprofit organization that has responded to 25 major disasters worldwide since 2003. With 46 chapters across the United States and global partnerships in more than 30 countries, Sewa delivers aid regardless of race, religion, or nationality. The organization has earned a perfect 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and is known for its efficiency in channeling over 90% of donations directly into program services. Through its disaster relief, education, and development programs, Sewa has impacted over 2.5 million lives globally, embodying its guiding principle: "service to humanity is service to the divine."

To support Thailand in this time of need, please find the donation links below:
Website - https://sewausa.org/ThailandEarthquakeRelief
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/1EoyKPYahP/

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 46 Chapters across the USA and serves regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, or national origin.

Contact:
Vidyasagar Thontalapur
7205269939
392795@email4pr.com

Cumming, GA – March 20, 2025 – Sewa Atlanta hosted its 18th annual Holi Festival event at the Cumming Fairgrounds, bringing together thousands of people in a vibrant celebration of unity, joy, and cultural heritage. The event, filled with music, dance, and festivities, reaffirmed Holi as not just a Hindu/Indian religious and cultural festival but a powerful expression of community and togetherness.

Colors, conversations, and music filled the air as thousands of attendees celebrated Holi at Sewa Atlanta's 18th annual event.

Attendees immersed themselves in the colorful spirit of Holi while enjoying music reflecting the joyous nature of the festival, dance performances, and a variety of delicious food. Sewa encouraged attendees to bring their water bottles to promote sustainability and make the event environment-friendly. Sewa Holi continues to be an event that strengthens the community while promoting charity and service.

Sewa Atlanta Chapter’s advisor and supporter Samir Bhatia welcomed and introduced the guests. Congressman Dr. Rich McCormick praised Sewa's commitment to humanitarian efforts locally and globally. He commended Sewa volunteers' commitment to selfless service appreciating them as the embodiment of the best human nature. Congressman McCormick expressed his joy in celebrating Holi with thousands, acknowledging the significant contributions of the Indian diaspora and the spirit of the Holi festival.

Participants and volunteers drenched in color at Sewa’s Holi event in Atlanta, GA

Consul General of India, Atlanta, Ramesh Babu Lakshmanan, applauded Sewa for hosting the largest Holi celebration in the US and its dedication to selfless service and community upliftment through disaster relief, education, healthcare, and development initiatives. Deputy Consul General of India, Atlanta, Sreejan Shandilya, highlighted the festival's contribution to promoting diversity and commended it for fostering cultural understanding and unity within the community.

Dr. Madhav Durbha, Sewa’s Atlanta chapter president, acknowledged the overwhelming community support and said it was a testament to the joyous spirit of Holi and the positive impact Sewa has on Atlanta and beyond. He thanked all donors, volunteers, and sponsors for their patronage.

Congressman Dr. Rich McCormick danced to the festival tune at Sewa’s Holi celebrations in Atlanta, GA

Atlanta Chapter Vice President, Raj Radhakrishnan, appreciated the support from the Forsyth County Commissioner’s Office, Cumming Fairgrounds staff, and Cumming Police Department.

Sewa thanked the various sponsors, including Level Solutions Group, PNC Bank, Handa FinTax Group, Gupta Real Estate, E-Ring, Inc., GCI Ingredients, Pyramid Consulting, Twinkle Pediatrics, LLC., Jonathan R. Brockman, P.C. Assureguru, Tanishq USA, Farmers Insurance - Gandhi Brothers, Ambaji Shree Shakti Mandir, Sanatan Mandir, La Chiquita, and Starbucks.

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.

Los Angeles (January 25, 2025): Sewa International, in response to the deadly wildfires in the Los Angeles area, has launched a fundraiser and has sent volunteers to deliver essential aid and coordinate efforts to address urgent needs.

At least 28 people have died, nearly 22 individuals remain missing, and more than 14,000 structures have been destroyed due to devastating wildfires that began sweeping across the Los Angeles area on January 7. Over 50,000 residents in Southern California are currently under evacuation orders or warnings. The situation remains dire as emergency crews work tirelessly to prevent further spread.

Amidst this crisis, Sewa International USA’s Los Angeles Chapter is actively collaborating with local authorities to provide immediate relief and support to affected communities.

Compassion in action: Sewa International volunteers serve meals to families impacted by the Los Angeles wildfires.

Sewa International has also launched a fundraiser to support wildfire relief efforts. Generous contributions from donors have already helped raise nearly $20,000. All proceeds will go directly to assisting families and individuals impacted by the disaster, helping them recover and rebuild their lives.

Sewa volunteers ensuring support during recovery efforts.

Sewa International President Arun Kankani, in his message to volunteers said, “It is important that we as a community come together during this critical time and help mitigate the suffering as much as we can. Any contributions to the wildfire relief fund will provide shelter, food, clothing, and other essential supplies to those in need.”

Dedicated Sewa International volunteers distributing essentials to wildfire-affected families.

How to Help
Donations can be made through Sewa International’s website at www.sewausa.org. Every contribution, big or small, can make a difference in helping wildfire victims recover and rebuild their lives.

Link to donate via Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1AF2jSfAYc/

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

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.

Atlanta, Dec. 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Sewa International Atlanta raised over $500,000 at its Annual Gala on Saturday, December 7, at Hotel Twelve Midtown, Autograph Collection. The event brought together over 250 attendees, including community leaders, supporters, volunteers, and guests, for an evening of celebration, impact, and inspiration. The funds will support ongoing programs such as Sewa AmeriCorps initiatives, free health clinics, food drives, and disaster relief efforts.

The team of Sewa Atlanta volunteers, whose collective efforts made the Annual Gala 2024 a success.

Dr. Madhav Durbha, President, and Raj Radhakrishnan, Vice President of the Atlanta Chapter, began the program by highlighting key accomplishments, including the expansion of the Sewa AmeriCorps Afterschool Tutoring Program, which supports underserved children academically. They also emphasized the success of free health clinics providing essential care and food security initiatives addressing hunger through meal distributions. This year's Gala celebrated Sewa Atlanta's growth, reach, and impact across these vital community programs.

Audience enjoying an evening of celebration, inspiration, and community impact.

Prof. Mohammed K. Ali, Co-Director of the EGDRC (Emory Global Diabetes Research Center), delivered the keynote address. His speech highlighted the global diabetes crisis and emphasized the urgent need for interdisciplinary solutions to address the growing burden of the disease.

Sewa Atlanta honored volunteers and organizations vital to Sewa's mission with awards, including Sophie and Sid Mookerji of the Mookerji Foundation, Dr. Paul Lopez, Esteban Alarcon, Dr. Sreeni and Madhavi Gangasani, Ravi Ponangi, and Bhikubhai Patel. Sewa also recognized its volunteer Vivek Srivatsav for his dedication and leadership in community initiatives.

Attendees received an autographed book by Padma Bhushan awardee Dr. Jagdish Sheth and a tree kit, for supporting Sewa's mission. The event featured an Indian classical dance performance by Saganika Mukherjee and music recitals by Anaga Jaswani and Neeti Patak. Subhash Patel of Natson Hotel Group sponsored the grand banquet hall and dinner.

Prof. Devesh Ranjan and Mrs. Sheela Pailwan emceed the gala evening.

For more information on Sewa International Atlanta and how to get involved, visit www.sewaatlanta.org.

Media Contact:
Vidya Tontalapur
720-526-9939
387546@email4pr.com

Houston, TX (October 13, 2024): Sewa International hosted a virtual conference titled "Education Summit 2024" on October 5, 2024, drawing over 160 participants. The summit sought to address immigrant and refugee students' challenges in U.S. schools and bridge the education gap by supporting marginalized communities.

Sewa runs ASPIRE – a comprehensive program that provides Math, English, Arts, and enrichment activities for students in grades K-6. Initiated in 2013 in partnership with AmeriCorps, ASPIRE has expanded to multiple locations. Anjana Bhadri, Sewa's Regional Project Manager, spoke about the program and its features.

Rakhi Israni (top left) moderated a panel discussion during the education summit. Panelists included Julie Sugarman (top right), Associate Director for K-12 Education Research at MPI's National Center, and Dr. Piyush Agarwal (bottom), an educationist and a United Nations consultant

Rakhi Israni, Sewa's Vice President of Government Relations, moderated a panel with Julie Sugarman, Associate Director for K-12 Education Research at MPI's National Center, Dr. Piyush Agarwal, Educationist, and Carole Juarez, Program Manager, AmeriCorps, discussing the challenges immigrant students face. Julie Sugarman noted that 25 percent of U.S. school-age children are from immigrant families, with lower graduation rates that improve over time. She stressed the need for equal access to education, highlighting disparities between states.

Dr. Piyush Agarwal urged integrating immigrant students into the education system and shared lessons from the 1998 Cuban influx, where strategies like educator training and bilingual materials proved effective.

Carole Juarez discussed the Aspire Program, where AmeriCorps members help students with limited English proficiency, addressing academic and emotional needs.

Sudha Prabhunandan (top left), the moderator, led a panel featuring Brittany (top right), an 8th-grade student, Krishnan Balasubramaniam (bottom left), a Sewa donor, and Victor Fisher (bottom right), a teacher, during the Education Summit

The second panel discussion opened with a yoga session led by Sridevi, a yoga instructor who has offered transformative yoga programs in universities and corporations.

Sudha Prabanandan, the moderator, introduced panelists Brittany, an 8th-grade student, Krishnan Balasubramaniam, a Sewa donor, and Victor Fisher, a teacher.

Brittany shared how the Aspire program helped her improve academically, raising her grades from C's and D's to A's and B's, highlighting its positive impact on her immigrant family. Victor Fisher discussed his experience working with at-risk children, noting how Aspire's individualized attention boosts student engagement and test scores. Krishnan Balasubramaniam, a dedicated Sewa donor, emphasized the importance of donor engagement, financial transparency, and Sewa's measurable success in addressing educational inequality.

In his concluding remarks, Prof. Anurag Mairal from Stanford University emphasized the critical role of education and innovation, noting that over a quarter of U.S. children lack adequate education, jeopardizing their futures. He highlighted the link between social determinants of health and education in underserved communities. Prof. Mairal praised the diverse stakeholders, including policymakers and educators, stressing the need for relationship-based learning environments. He observed that the challenges stem not from students' abilities but from their access to resources and sense of belonging.

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.