Sewa International to expand reach, recruit more women volunteers

Addressing over 130 delegates on May 6 and 7, Arun Kankani also disclosed Sewa International's plans to open a “Sewa Academy” to train its volunteers. "Sewa is also planning to focus on building chapters in smaller towns within the large metro areas through its neighborhood Sewa program," he said. Sewa currently has 43 chapters across the United States.

Congressman Dr. Rich McCormick representing Georgia's Sixth Congressional District addressed attendees at the conference. "The Indian American community, although they make up just one percent of the population, is paying six percent of taxes. You have come here to participate in the American dream and you are the new generation of success stories in America. Get involved in politics; take your destiny in hand, and stand up for each other," the congressman said.

Congressman McCormick highlighted the significance of making informed choices in elections. “Who you choose as your representative will determine how much you pay in taxes, how much your business is regulated, and how many of your kids get to college," Rich McCormick said. He emphasized the power of relationships and unity. He encouraged individuals to build connections and engage in respectful discussions rather than trying to win arguments. "I stand shoulder to shoulder with you. I support success and the American Dream because everyone deserves that in America. Do not support someone who holds you back," he said.

Digvijay "Danny" Gaekwad, an American Indian entrepreneur and community leader from Ocala, Florida, was the chief guest at the inaugural event. Recalling how his forefathers, who were erstwhile rulers in the state of Baroda in pre-independent India, supported children's education, Gaekwad said, "Sewa's continued focus and outstanding work in helping children from low-income families get a good education is truly inspiring." He also announced sponsoring ten children under Sewa's Sponsor A Child program.

Subash Patel, CEO of Global Hotel Group and a prominent Indian American businessman in Atlanta, introduced Digvijay Gaekwad. He appreciated Sewa's work serving the community and bringing relief to people in need during disasters. "During the COVID-19 pandemic, I learned about the fantastic work carried out by Sewa volunteers to help humanity. I am impressed by Sewa's disaster relief and development work and support Sewa," Patel said.

At the conference, Sewa honored Dr. Manohar Shinde, a veteran community leader, a member of the Board of Governors of Dharma Civilization Foundation, and a board member of the Hindu University of America. President Arun Kankani, former president of Sewa, Prof. Sree Sreenath, and a member of the Board of Advisors, Saumitra Gokhale, spoke about Dr. Shinde's contribution to strengthening and organizing the Indian American community in the US.

Accepting the honor, Dr. Shinde shared a thought that inspired him from the life of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, a 19-century spiritual leader from India, where he learned the importance of considering the opportunity to serve humanity as a God-given fortune rather than an act of boosting our ego. Dr. Shinde said this shift in perspective became a source of motivation for him.