Sewa International's Fourth Annual Charity Golf Event Triumphs with

Resounding Success

Houston, TX (September 16, 2024): Sewa International’s annual charity golf event, held in

remembrance of 9/11, celebrated its fourth year at the scenic Clear Creek Golf Course in

Houston. Anup Bhasin, Joint Coordinator of Sewa International Houston, warmly welcomed the

golfers and guests, introducing Dan Davis, the Mayor of Manvel, one of the youngest mayors in

the country. Mayor Davis highlighted Manvel’s growth, noting that the city issues an average of

800-1,000 new residential permits annually and has 13 capital projects underway, valued at over

$100 million. He also emphasized collaboration with various organizations to meet the

community's needs before taking the ceremonial first shot of the day using a custom Sewa-

branded golf ball.

The tournament followed a four-person scramble format, with 23 teams and 92 participants from

across Houston competing for top honors. Notable teams included an all-women team, a team

from the Pearland Police Department, and a team of high school girls. Sewa International

partnered again with “Backswing Golf Events” this year to bring back the popular ‘Beat the Pro’

challenge, with Hannah Sirdashaney as the pro to beat at hole 5, adding extra excitement to the

event.

The award ceremony was opened by Rashmi Singh, who shared how Sewa had responded to

Hurricane Beryl by assisting over 300 families across five counties, providing more than 3,000

hot meals, 1,200 gallons of water, 2,400+ volunteer hours, and $100,000 in aid. She called on

everyone to support the underserved communities in Brazoria, particularly the Cambodian

community in Rosharon, who urgently need help repairing 80 greenhouses and 10 water wells

damaged by the hurricane. Rashmi emphasized Sewa's guiding principle of 'vasudhaiva

kutumbakam,' a Sanskrit phrase meaning 'the world is one family,' encouraging others to adopt

this belief. She highlighted Sewa’s commitment to serving all without discrimination, as

reflected in their tagline, 'Together We Serve Better.

The prizes were presented by Rushi Patel, Pearland's first Asian-American city council member,

and Elizabeth Gerbel, owner of EAG Services. Rushi praised Sewa, calling it an “amazing cause

supporting families in Brazoria County.” Elizabeth expressed her gratitude for being invited and

shared how she connected with Sewa through their summer internship program. She also

discussed her background in the oil and gas industry and how it helps broaden outreach

opportunities for Sewa.

This event was meticulously conceived, orchestrated, and executed by a dedicated team of Sewa

volunteers, with a significant portion of them being enthusiastic high school youth. They

wholeheartedly gathered on a splendid late summer day to lend their support to this noble cause.

The funds raised will go towards charitable service projects in Houston, as well as hurricane

relief efforts, particularly for underserved communities in Brazoria County. Several families

from the Cambodian community in Rosharon, who will benefit from these funds, attended the

award ceremony and expressed their heartfelt gratitude.

This remarkable gathering represented the fruition of months of extensive planning, thorough

preparation, and relentless dedication, all masterminded by the Sewa organizing team under the

capable leadership of Anup Bhasin and Jaivijay Ramu.With a record number of teams and

participants this year, their vision is to expand the event further and make it even more impactful

in the future. They expressed deep gratitude to all the sponsors, including EAG (Silver Sponsor),

Navigature, Will and Beth Ruiz, and the Law Office of Leena Bhasin (Bronze Sponsors), as well

as Deep Foods, Monks Restaurant, Alpha Juice, Preetam Deshmukh, Honest Restaurant, and

Akshaya Catering (Priyanka and Bhagavath), for their generous support. “We extend our

heartfelt thanks to Mayor Dan Davis, Councilman Rushi Patel, all the sponsors, players,

supporting organizations, and volunteers for making this event a tremendous success,” they said.

ABOUT SEWA INTERNATIONAL

Sewa International, a leading Hindu faith-based Indian American nonprofit organization with 43

Chapters in twenty-five US States, has extensive experience in disaster rescue, relief, and

rehabilitation operations having responded to more than 25 disasters in the US and abroad.

Among its accolades, Sewa International has been recognized by Charity Navigator – the

premier nonprofit rating agency – as the number five among the “10 Highly Rated Charities

Relying on Private Contributions”. Sewa International has for the past three years continuously

scored the topmost-rated 4-star ranking from Charity Navigator and has earned perfect scores

for Financial Health, and Accountability & Transparency. 

For more information on Sewa International and its activities, please visit

http://www.sewausa.org/houston

Houston Chapter of Sewa

International hosts a vibrant and successful Annual Fundraising Gala

Houston, November 17, 2024 – Sewa International’s Houston Chapter hosted its much-anticipated annual gala,

H.E.L.P. 2024 (Help Every Life Prosper), on November 17, 2024 at the GSH Event Center. This sold-out event,

attended by over 500 guests, celebrated the chapter’s accomplishments throughout the year and raised funds

for its ongoing humanitarian projects, embodying the spirit of selfless service to the local community.

The evening commenced with a captivating dance tribute to Lord Ganesha, performed by students from the

SPARC School of Dance, setting the tone for an inspiring night. Dr. Pranav Loyalka, President of Sewa

International’s Houston Chapter, delivered the opening remarks, followed by an overview video highlighting

Sewa’s impact. The Shivangini School of Dance then delighted the audience with an elegant performance.

Videos showcasing the Houston chapter's work through programs like ASPIRE, Family Services, and disaster

relief during Hurricane Beryl were presented, giving attendees an in-depth view of Sewa’s contributions to the

community. The keynote address was delivered by Mohanjit Jolly, advisor, board member, and space enthusiast,

who emphasized the principles of Sewa in Sikhism as taught by Guru Nanak Ji: remembering God, earning an

honest living, and sharing resources to care for those in need.

Hon. D.C. Manjunath, Consul General of India in Houston, served as the Chief Guest. He commended Sewa

International for its inclusive approach, embracing diverse communities and volunteers, exemplifying the Indic

principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (The World is One Family). Adding a touch of humor to the evening,

award-winning comedian Paul Varghese entertained the audience with his wit and charm.

The gala’s PVSA Award Ceremony recognized the dedication of Sewa Houston’s youth volunteers who devoted

their time to serve the community over the past year. The event was attended by more than 20 elected officials,

including representatives from the offices of Senators Ted Cruz and John Cornyn, State Representative Gene

Wu, Pearland Mayor Kevin Cole, Houston City Council Member Tiffany Thomas, Judge Julie Mathew, and Fort

Bend County Commissioner Andy Meyers.

The audience was mesmerized by performances from Rhythm of Dreams, who took them on a musical journey

through Bollywood classics, as well as violinist Celeste Vee and singer Anis Chandani. These talented artists

provided a captivating musical backdrop during the multi-course dinner, culminating in a vibrant conclusion as

guests enthusiastically joined the performers on the dance floor, adding to the evening's celebratory

atmosphere.

The evening concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks from Anup Bhasin, Joint Coordinator of Sewa

International’s Houston Chapter. He expressed gratitude to the donors, organizational partners, media partners,

Sewa

International

Service to Humanity is Service to God

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:

Nikhil Jain

Phone: 713 834 4909

Email: info-sdm@sewausa.org

2 of 2

performers, volunteers, core team members, and elected officials whose contributions made the event a

success. The H.E.L.P. 2024 Gala not only celebrated the achievements of Sewa International’s Houston Chapter

but also reinforced the organization’s commitment to uplifting the community through dedicated service.

Photo Credits - Navin Mediwala

About Sewa International

Sewa International, a leading Hindu faith-based Indian American nonprofit organization with 43 Chapters in

twenty-five US States, has extensive experience in disaster rescue, relief, and rehabilitation operations having

responded to more than 25 disasters in the US and abroad.

Among its accolades, Sewa International has been recognized by Charity Navigator – the premier nonprofit

rating agency – as the number five among the “10 Highly Rated Charities Relying on Private Contributions”.

Sewa International has for the past three years continuously scored the topmost-rated 4-star ranking from

Charity Navigator and has earned perfect scores for Financial Health, and Accountability & Transparency. 

For more information on Sewa International and its activities, please visit https://www.sewausa.org/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.

https://www.indoamerican-news.com/sewa-houston-hosts-vibrant-successful-annual-fundraising-gala/

Sewa International Houston’s AmeriCorps team organized a donation drive on February 18 in support of the victims of the earthquake in Syria and Turkey.

https://www.indoamerican-news.com/sewa-americorps-members-send-200-boxes-of-relief-material-to-turkey-syria/

While the Indian American community was celebrating the winter festivals of Sankranti, Pongal, Lohri, and others, a few from the community geared up to participate and volunteer for the 51st Chevron Houston Marathon held on Sunday, January 15. 

https://www.indoamerican-news.com/houston-marathon-wows-sewa-international-volunteers-runners/

Marking another successful year, Sewa International’s Houston Chapter held a vibrant annual gala on December 4, 2022 to showcase both its work and to raise money for all the benefictory  causes it supports and serves. Titled “H.E.L.P. 2022 – Local Presence, Global Impact”, the annual event concluded a highly successful year of work and dedication.

https://www.indoamerican-news.com/sewa-international-houston-chapters-vibrant-successful-annual-gala/

https://india-herald.com/india-herald-p8392-1.htm

https://issuu.com/onestarfdn/docs/onestar_2021_annual_report/s/15752137

Sewa International Joins Hands with Conscious Planet to Promote the Save Soil Global Movement

Atlanta, GA (April 19, 2022): Sewa International, through its Vasundhara Sewa program and its continued commitment to environmental causes, is supporting the Save Soil movement.

Save Soil is a global initiative launched by yogi and visionary Sadhguru to “invoke a conscious approach to soil and the planet.” One of Save Soil’s main objectives is to have countries across the globe enact necessary laws and policies that will “increase the organic content in cultivable soil” and address the catastrophic environmental degradation issues facing humanity. Joining the Save Soil movement are thousands of experts, community leaders, celebrities, governmental agencies, and heads of state.

After initial media coverage in the US, where Sadhguru was interviewed by Trevor Noah and Joe Rogan on March 21, he began a 100-day, 20,000-mile motorcycle journey across 27 countries. Sadhguru has traversed major European countries and cities, where he spreads the Save Soil message at large public events and in meetings with experts. He has engaged with major European media as well as government leaders. He emphasizes the pressing need to formulate policies that address the looming threat of soil degradation, how to regenerate soil, and work to ensure the health of Mother Earth.

Globally, 52 percent of agricultural land is already degraded, and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization predicts we only have 60 years of soil use left. Fortunately, there are proven solutions that could help reverse this calamitous trend if concerted steps are immediately initiated. Leading agencies such as the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification and United Nations Environment Program are offering their support and expertise to ensure the success of these efforts. The movement has also received resounding support from several Caribbean nations, the Commonwealth of Nations, the “4 per 1,000” Initiative, the World Food Program, the Food and Agriculture Organization, and the International Union for Conservation of Nature, among others.

Sadhguru at the United Nations in Geneva, joining the panel event “Save Soil: On Planetary and Human Well-Being”. The panelists joining Sadhguru include (left to right) Nadia Isler (Office of the Director-General, United Nations), Dr. Naoko Yamamoto (World Health Organization), and Stewart Maginnis (International Union for Conservation of Nature).

Sewa International will support Save Soil’s efforts through initiatives that engage its volunteers and the communities they live in. In alignment with the “Students for Soil” global initiative, Sewa will kick off a poster campaign involving the youth, amplifying their messages and designs through social media. Sewa then plans to continue the momentum by encouraging children to adopt and care for plants as well as join nature outings. These efforts reflect a commitment to join hands to facilitate Sadhguru's vision of spreading the Save Soil message to 3.5 billion people.

One thousand plus LEAD (a program engaging high school and college students) participants will be conducting various activities and managing campaigns bringing awareness about soil health to their communities. They will also be participating in the Earth Day poster campaign.

Sewa International’s forty-three chapters will be conducting soil conservation and awareness activities. They will also be involved in observing Earth Day on April 23 and are organizing a national evening webinar to unite experts and environmental leaders. Those involved will take the "Vasundhara Sewa" pledge: “I pledge to take steps toward the betterment of my Mother Earth. I will spread awareness to others. I will expand my knowledge and actions to reduce the carbon footprint and improve the environment and my community.” The pledge can be taken at sewausa.org/savesoilpledge.

“We in Sewa have always promoted the principle of serving all beings, sentient and non-sentient. Sewa means selfless service, and helping Sadhguru and his team spread this message of protecting the Earth is very much part of our goal to serve people by helping them lead safe and healthy lives in a beautiful environment,” said Prem Pusuloori, Director of Projects and Programs, Sewa International.

           

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. 

About Sadhguru

Sadhguru is a yogi, visionary and a two-time New York Times bestselling author. He has been conferred three presidential awards in India, including one for his environmental work as well as India’s highest annual civilian award for exceptional and distinguished service.

Over the years, the founder of Isha Foundation has also launched large ecological initiatives that have created a blueprint for economic development that is ecologically sustainable. He has spoken at the United Nations, World Economic Forum, World Bank, the UK House of Lords, TED, and countless global companies. He has also been invited to talk at universities like Oxford, Stanford, Harvard, Yale, Wharton, and MIT, among others.

About Conscious Planet – Save Soil Movement

The Conscious Planet Movement to Save Soil is a global civil movement to inspire a conscious approach to saving our soil and planet. This is, first and foremost, a people’s movement. Its aim is to activate the support of over 3.5 billion people (over 60% of the world’s voting population) to make ecological issues an election priority for governments across the globe.

The Conscious Planet Movement aims to urge and support governments in formulating policies that will address soil health in their country and make farming activity more soil friendly to halt and reverse further soil degradation globally. The primary recommendation of the Save Soil Movement is for governments across the world to legislate policies that will mandate a minimum of 3-6% organic content in all agricultural soil in their country. World leaders, influencers, artists, subject matter experts, farmers, spiritual leaders, NGOs are among those who have pledged their support to rekindle humanity’s relationship with soil.

Learn more at SaveSoil.org. For media inquiries, contact media.americas@savesoil.org.

Sewa International Plays Key Role in Evacuating 467 African Students from Ukraine

Houston, TX (March 09, 2022): Sewa International Europe played a key role in evacuating 467 African students, including 367 from Nigeria, and another 100 from Namibia, Zambia, and South Africa, from Sumy, the northern region of Ukraine bordering Russia, on Tuesday, March 8. Sewa volunteers coordinated the evacuation efforts responding to a request by Shina Alege, the Nigerian Ambassador to Ukraine.

Nigeria’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyema, thanked Sewa International Europe for “their amazing facilitation and coordination”. In his message, he also thanked the Government of Ukraine for providing the buses, and Shina Alege, Nigeria’s Ambassador, “for his determination and perseverance”.

Sewa Europe volunteers received the request on March 5 from the ambassador and worked closely with the Sumy State University coordinators, Sumy city administration, and the Nigerian Student Representative, Moses Fehintola. The evacuation took place around 1:20 PM Ukrainian time. The students were taken from Sumy to the Romanian border where they are expected to board flights to their countries.

Sewa volunteers pictured with a few of the international students they helped evacuate from the war zone

Sewa International volunteers in Europe have helped nearly 12,000 individuals in the last sixteen days since the war started. Over 100 Sewa volunteers are working within Ukraine, and fifty volunteers are working in the border locations assisting people to cross the border. So far, Sewa has helped stranded people from twelve nations.

Sewa helplines continue to receive calls from stranded people and 350 volunteers from 25 countries across the globe are involved in answering the helplines and arranging for food, shelter, transportation, and other types of help in Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Finland, the United Kingdom, and Germany. Sewa is receiving outstanding support and cooperation from many Hindu religious (dharmic) organizations such as the International Society of Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) and Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) as well as citizens in bordering countries such as Poland and Romania. Volunteers from ISKCON and BAPS are working together with Sewa volunteers in serving food, providing shelter, and in reaching out to people who need help.

Nigeria’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyema, thanked Sewa International for coordinating the Nigerian students’ evacuation from Sumy, in the northern region of Ukraine on March 8 2022.

“It is really heartening to see that Sewa’s efforts to help the African students have been fruitful and they have been evacuated from Sumy. We thank the Ukrainian Government for providing the buses and a green corridor to help these students leave the war zone. We thank Ambassador Shina Alege for providing Sewa an opportunity to serve these students who were stuck in Sumy and facing danger,” Sewa volunteers Atul Sethi from Ukraine, Nilesh Solanki from the United Kingdom, Divyang Pandya from Norway, and Heramb Kulkarni from Finland said over a WhatsApp call.

Sewa Europe is continuing its efforts to help stranded people and people affected by the war in Ukraine.

To volunteer or for information on Sewa’s efforts, please visit https://sewaeurope.org, https://fr-fr.facebook.com/SewaEuropeOfficial/ or call +35 8504839418.