Article Source: https://thechroniclesofnepal.com/?p=1287

SUGAR LAND, Texas - In the wake of catastrophic flash floods in Nepal, Sewa International has launched a major relief and long-term recovery initiative aimed at supporting 10,000 children and helping devasted communities rebuild. The non-profit organization announced plans to deliver educational aid and establish 10 skill development centers across the hardest-hit districts to assist families who lost their primary livelihoods.

The recovery campaign follows a two-day field assessment by Sewa USA President Srikanth Gundavarapu, who traveled more than 125 miles across the Rasuwa, Nuwakot, and Dhading districts alongside teams from Sewa Nepal and local partners. The delegation observed widespread destruction, including washed-out roads, collapsed bridges, and neighborhoods buried under mud and debris.

Beyond immediate emergency aid, Sewa’s comprehensive plan targets multi-sector rehabilitation, including helping at least 500 families rebuild destroyed homes, assisting farmers in restoring ruined agricultural land, and offering mental health support to residents coping with severe trauma. In areas where rivers severed access between communities, residents and students are temporarily using zip-lines to travel while infrastructure repairs are underway.

During his visit, Gundavarapu met with displaced families, local response teams, and government officials. His stops included the Sewa-run Janjati Kalyan Ashram hostel in Nuwakot, as well as a meeting with a local school principal who continues to lead over 800 students despite losing her own home to the floodwaters.

Ground operations are being spearheaded by approximately 90 volunteers from Sewa USA, Sewa Nepal, and the Nepal Community Medicine Assistant Association. Response efforts so far include:

• Distributing more than 800 grocery and hygiene kits, alongside 700 shelter and medical kits.
• Serving over 2,250 cooked meals in the initial five days, with roughly 150 daily hot meals ongoing.
• Conducting health camps that provided medical checks for over 150 survivors.
• Delivering more than 500 emergency power and lighting units, including 200 units allocated directly to the Nepal Police.

Sewa International initially allocated $100,000 in emergency funding immediately following the floods and set a overall target of $1 million for Nepal’s rehabilitation. The organization reports that it has reached 76% of its fundraising goal to date. Direct contributions to support ongoing field work can be made through Sewa USA’s Nepal Flash Flood Relief Page.

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.

Article Source: https://newsindiatimes.com/more-than-380-attend-the-first-doctors-for-sewa-national-conference/

More than 380 attendees, including physicians, medical professionals, community leaders, and Sewa volunteers from 32 chapters nationwide, attended the first-ever Doctors for Sewa (DFS) National Conference virtually on September 26. Doctors for Sewa is a Sewa International initiative to involve physicians in community service.

Sewa partnered with the AAPI-CF (American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin) Charitable Foundation and AAPI to organize the conference, an October 6, 2026, press release from the organizers said.

The theme of the two-hour conference was “Advancing Healthcare through Selfless Service.” Discussants explored how to engage healthcare professionals in local and global service projects.

The conference’s Chief Guest Dr. Bobby Mukkamala, Immediate Past President of the American Medical Association, delivered the keynote address at the Doctors for Sewa Virtual National Conference

In his keynote address, Dr. Bobby Mukkamala, Immediate Past President of the American Medical Association (AMA), said, “Service is not an obligation; it is an extension of why so many of us chose medicine in the first place. By working together, we can build healthier communities and expand access to care. Our commitment to service can create a lasting impact beyond the walls of a hospital.”

In his opening remarks, Dr. Kiran Patil, a Neurologist introduced DFS and said it focused on three areas of work: Serve Local, International Medical Yatra, and EVOLVE (Explore the Virtue of Obeisance towards life by volunteering and educating), and mentoring. Dr. Patil is currently serving as a DFS volunteer in Suriname.

The conference featured three focused sessions. The first session, ‘Serve Local and Beyond,’ moderated by Dr. Shashwati Kale, brought together Dr. Sreeni Gangasani, Dr. Sangeeta Sinha, and Dr. Meher Medavaram, president of AAPI. The panel highlighted free clinics and health fairs already led by physicians across the country and offered practical insights for doctors looking to launch similar initiatives in their communities.

Dr. Gangasani shared his experience running the GAPI-Sewa (Georgia Association of Physicians of Indian Heritage) free clinic in Georgia since 2010, including a case in which the clinic helped detect cancer at an early stage. Panelists encouraged physicians to volunteer one day a month—or even one day a year—and suggested stronger connections between health fairs and free clinics.

Physicians engaged in a panel discussion at the Doctors for Sewa virtual National Conference

The second Session, ‘Mental Health, Alternative Medicine & Holistic Well-Being,’ moderated by Dr. Vibhor Gupta, featured Dr. Hetal Nayak, Dr. Unnati Jain, and Dr. Jashvant Patel, who examined integrative approaches to care built around the whole person.

The third Session, ‘Workforce Empowerment & Policy Shaping,’ was moderated by Dr. Pranshu Adavadkar, featured Dr. Ravi Jahagirdar, Dr. Deepu Sudhakaran, and Dr. Monika Kapur. The panel focused on challenges facing International Medical Graduates and explored policy opportunities for physicians to play a stronger role in shaping healthcare.

Immediate Past President of the Texas Medical Association, Dr. Jayesh Shah, described Sewa International as a bridge between those with expertise and those who need it. Drawing on his experience with Sewa’s disaster response after the Kerrville floods and the organization’s ongoing relief efforts in Nepal, Dr. Shah’s take-home message to every attendee was simple: Sewa begins when we stop asking what we have, and start asking what we can give. He challenged each physician in the program to commit to one concrete act of service in the next 30 days. The conference concluded with Dr. Sarvalakshmi Kurella delivering the vote of thanks.

Article Source: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sewa-international-plans-to-support-10-000-children-affected-by-floods-president-srikanth-gundavarapu-visits-nepal-302895131.html

SUGAR LAND, Texas, Oct. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ Sewa International plans to provide educational assistance to 10,000 children affected by the recent flash floods and establish 10 skill development centers in flood-hit districts of Nepal to help people who lost their livelihoods rebuild their lives.

Unveiling Sewa's plans to help people recover from the devastating effects of floods, Sewa USA's President Srikanth Gundavarapu said helping people rebuild their lives is Sewa's priority. The plan includes helping at least 500 families rebuild their homes and providing mental-health assistance to help people cope with trauma.

Sewa announced $100,000 in aid immediately after the floods on August 26, and about 90 Sewa volunteers are actively involved in relief work. Sewa's goal is to raise over $1 million for Nepal relief, and as of the date of this article, we had reached 76% of our goal.

Returning from his two-day visit to Nepal's flood-affected areas to assess the damage and get an overview of the ongoing relief work, Gundavarapu said he felt overwhelmed by the lives destroyed, families torn apart, and the death and mayhem caused by the floods. Gundavarapu and a team of volunteers from Sewa Nepal and other partner organizations traveled over 125 miles through the flood-hit communities.

A school bus (top photo) and the colossal wreck (bottom photo) left behind by the floods in Nepal

Gundavarapu and team met with affected families, local response teams, and government officials in Rasuwa, Nuwakot, and Dhading districts. The team saw homes washed away, roads and bridges destroyed, and communities cut off by mud, rocks, and debris. In some areas, thousands of children cannot attend school.

Gundavarapu visited the Sewa-run Janjati Kalyan Ashram hostel in Thepla, Nuwakot. He met the Pandey family, whose daughter remains missing. Sewa President also met an eight-year-old child who lost both his 14-year-old brother and 13-year-old sister in the floods. Sewa Team also met a principal who continued to support over 800 children in her school, despite losing her home in floods.

"Having come here gives me a much greater appreciation of what Sewa is doing on the ground," Gundavarapu said. Working with Sewa Nepal and Nepal CMA (Community Medicine Assistant) Association, Sewa USA has distributed over 800 grocery and hygiene kits and 700 shelter and medical kits.

Sewa USA President Srikanth Gundavarapu (third from left, top photo) with the Sewa Nepal team and children (bottom photo) during his visit to Nepal

Sewa volunteers served more than 2,250 cooked meals during the first five days and continue to provide about 150 meals daily. More than 150 people received medical check-ups through health camps, while over 500 emergency lighting and power-support items were provided, including 200 units to the Nepal Police.

Sewa USA invites individuals, community organizations, corporations, and foundations to support its Nepal Flood Relief and Rehabilitation efforts. Donations will help sustain immediate assistance and expand long-term programs focused on children, education, shelter, skills, and livelihoods.

Donation Link: https://sewausa.org/NepalFlashFloodRelief

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.

Article Source: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/we-never-forget-always-remember-and-serve-to-build-stronger-community-sewa-international-marks-25th-anniversary-of-911-302885931.html

Chesterfield, NJ - September 21, 2026: Sewa International organized over 14 commemorations and 50 service events across the country to mark the 25th Anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attack on America that killed over 3000 people in 2001. Attendees and Sewa volunteers paid homage to the attack victims and honored police officers, firefighters, and other brave people who sacrificed their lives trying to save people during the attack.

Sewa brought together public officials, military personnel, veterans, first responders, Scouts, JROTC cadets, students, families, and community and faith leaders in these events. Paying tribute to victims and first responders, speakers recalled the resilience and strength shown by Americans after the tragedy.

"The sacrifices made by Americans and our partners in the years after 9/11 speak of bravery and the relentless freedom that can't be chained," said Colonel Kevin E. White, Commander, 514th Airlift Wing, and Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, who delivered the keynote speech at the event on September 11 in Chesterfield Township, New Jersey.

We Never Forget

Held at the 9/11 memorial that Sewa South Jersey Chapter helped establish with the township in 2024, the event brought together over 250 attendees. Guest Speaker at the event, Bryan A. Branson, Honorary Commander Emeritus, JBMDL & President of the Armed Forces Heritage Museum, shared his personal story and reflections on the tragedy's lasting impact. "We come together in a spirit of remembrance and unity, reflecting on the resilience and strength that arose from tragedy to pay homage to the victims, first responders, and all who were affected, ensuring we never forget, " he said.

State Senator Latham Tiver said, "We must embody the values of care and pride daily, ensuring that the lessons learned from 9/11 are not just about remembrance, but about taking action for a kinder, more united future."

Colonel Kevin E. White [left], Bryan A. Branson [top right], and State Senator Latham Tiver [bottom right] spoke at the 9/11 remembrance ceremony in Chesterfield, NJ

The program included a flag-raising, Color Guard presentation, Pledge of Allegiance, National Anthem, prayer, and a moment of silence. Sewa LEAD (Leadership, Education, and Development) youth also presented roses and handmade cards to first responders and veterans.

Local officials, first responders, and community members gathered in Houston, TX, for a memorial ceremony marking the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001

Sewa Houston organized a 9/11 Day of Commemoration and Remembrance at the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) in Houston on September 11. The program honored those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001, and featured remarks from local officials, first responders, and community leaders on service, unity, and resilience.

In California, the Sewa International Bay Area Chapter held a 9/11 Commemoration and Day of Service at the Milpitas Tech Center. Sewa honored veterans, first responders, city officials, and community partners. The program included a Pledge of Allegiance, the National Anthem performed by LEAD youth, a moment of silence, and a meditation (mindfulness) session.

Sewa volunteers commemorated 9/11 and honored veterans and first responders in Milpitas, CA

Sewa-organized 9/11 service events included burrito and sandwich drives, yoga sessions, highway and park cleanup, mental health workshops, tree planting, beach cleanup, walk & runs, electronic recycling, meal preparation and packing, back to school night, food distribution, and senior events.

Article Source: https://www.indialife.us/article/290948

Sugar Land, TX (September 15, 2026): Sewa International USA held its 6th National Youth Convention (NYC 2026) virtually on August 30, with about 587 participants and several hundred more joining via social media from across the United States and around the world. This year, Sewa LEAD (Leadership, Education, and Development) engaged more than 1,700 participants across 27 chapters, who contributed more than 70,000 service hours.

Srikanth Gundavarapu, President of Sewa International USA [first right], lit the traditional lamp to open the convention.
Prem Kumar Pusuloori, Vice President, Programs, [at his left]; and Ritesh Maheshwari, Central Jersey Chapter Coordinator [left] were present.

NYC 2026 gave youth a platform to share their experiences, celebrate their achievements, and discuss their role in shaping America’s future. The convention celebrated Sewa youth leadership and service through Sewa LEAD, which helps high school students develop leadership skills and serve their communities. The convention brought participants together under the theme “250 Years of America’s Independence: Honoring the Past, Leading the Future.”

Srikanth Gundavarapu, President of Sewa International USA [top left], addressed youth leaders who joined the 6th National Youth Convention virtually from across the country.

Srikanth Gundavarapu, President of Sewa International, welcomed the delegates and said, “Sewa is about selfless service. Our strength comes from unity, compassion, and leadership. I appreciate the dedication of our youth and encourage you to continue serving your communities with purpose and commitment."

Congressman Suhas Subramanyam [left] delivered the opening address; Aakash Selvaraj, Founder and CEO of Sastrah.ai [bottom right], presented the keynote address; and Sarika Gehani, Director, Sewa Board [top right], offered the closing remarks.

Actively Participate to Shape Future

In his opening address, Congressman Suhas Subramanyam, U.S. Representative for Virginia’s 10th Congressional District, emphasized civic engagement, youth leadership, and community service. Drawing from his own public service journey, he said, “Young leaders have a responsibility to society. Use your voice, embrace opportunities, and actively help shape the future. Lead with purpose and integrity.”

The LEAD Alumni Plenary featured former participants sharing how Sewa LEAD shaped their leadership and personal, academic, and professional growth. Their stories highlighted the lasting value of service and community involvement and encouraged current students to make service a lifelong commitment.

Pursue Your Purpose

Chief Guest and Keynote Speaker, Aakash Selvaraj, Founder and CEO of Sastrah.ai, said, “Identify real-world challenges, develop innovative solutions, build strong teams, and pursue your purpose with perseverance. Innovation can help address critical challenges and improve lives.” The delegates of NYC 2026 passed a resolution titled “Youth Commitment to Shaping the Future of America.” The resolution passed with 99 percent of the vote, reflecting Sewa youth’s commitment to liberty, equality, inclusion, democracy, community service, civic engagement, and shaping America’s future. Youth from all four Sewa regions also showcased community service activities from chapters nationwide.

The third session featured 10 Leadership Lab sessions on issues and opportunities relevant to today’s youth. Distinguished panelists led these discussions, sharing practical insights and real-world perspectives on the challenges facing young leaders.

Pursue American & Indian Values

Special Guest and Closing Speaker, Sarika Gehani, Sewa Board Director, said, “Embrace both Indian and American values, bring your authentic self to leadership, and carry the spirit of Sewa beyond events through everyday acts of kindness, compassion, and responsibility.”

A highlight of this year’s convention was the participation of international youth delegates as observers, with Sewa Nigeria youth in attendance.

Article Source: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sewa-international-usa-launches-nepal-flood-relief-and-missing-person-helpdesk-302864954.html

SUGAR LAND, Texas, Aug. 31, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Sewa International USA has released $100,000 for Nepal Flood Relief, while volunteers work on the ground to rescue stranded people and provide emergency assistance. Sewa International Nepal volunteers are supporting relief efforts in Rasuwa, Nuwakot, and Dhading.

Sewa Volunteers handling supplies for distribution to the needy in Nepal

"Sewa has started a fundraiser, 'Nepal Flash Flood Relief,' and raised over $55,000 in the last 24 hours," said Srikanth Gundavarapu, President of Sewa International USA. "Flash floods have devastated parts of Nepal, killing hundreds and sweeping away many devotees gathered for the Kailash Yatra. It is heart-wrenching to see the suffering and grief of people."

Sewa is appealing to support the fundraiser and is establishing a dedicated helpdesk to collect and share information about Americans reported missing or stranded in Nepal and coordinate with concerned families and community members https://sewausa.org/NepalRescue.

Sewa volunteers distributed emergency relief supplies to communities affected by devastating floods in Nepal

Devastating Floods

On August 26, catastrophic flash floods struck northern Nepal following a glacier collapse, avalanche, and landslide. At the time of writing this article, the death toll has risen to 626, with at least 2,478 people missing, including 777 foreign nationals. An estimated 93,000 people have been severely affected, and more than 3,700 have been rescued.

Floodwaters carried mud, rocks, and debris through Himalayan river valleys, destroying homes, roads, bridges, hydropower facilities, water systems, and communication networks and making rescue and relief efforts challenging. A few of our Sewa International USA volunteers who were at the Nepal-Tibet border at the time of this tragedy are still missing.

"Sewa Nepal volunteers are actively supporting the ground response by transporting relief materials to affected communities and assisting with local distribution and relief coordination," Gundavarapu said. "Sewa stands with the people of Nepal and is committed to continuing relief work and taking up recovery and rebuilding efforts."

Lost Homes, Stranded People

"Sewa's immediate priority is to help families who have lost their homes, are stranded, and face hunger, cold, and health emergencies," said Vinayak Astekar, Sewa's Associate Director for Disaster Response. "We are working with Sewa International Bharat (India), sister organizations, and community partners to mobilize essential supplies, daily necessities, and volunteers."

Within 48 hours, Sewa mobilized shelter, protective, food, medical, and rescue-support supplies, including 300 heavy-duty 12-by-15-foot tarpaulins, foam mattresses, raincoats, ponchos, floating foam, water bottles, ration kits, cookies, and volunteer jackets. Medical supplies include paracetamol and approximately 5,000 packets of oral rehydration solution.

Partnering with Community

Sewa is collaborating with the San Antonio Nepali Association (SANA), Nepali community partners in North Carolina, Aum Ashram San Antonio, Hindus of Greater Houston and its broader network. Sewa has formed a missing-person tracking group, with about 75 people registered to locate loved ones. The group plans to publish daily updates.

Donors can support Sewa's Nepal Flash Flood Relief efforts at:
https://sewausa.org/NepalFlashFloodRelief

Article Source: https://www.indialife.us/article/287244

Atlanta, GA — July 27, 2026 — Sewa International recently concluded its four-week Sewa AmeriCorps Summer Camp 2026, providing K–8 students with an engaging summer learning experience. The camp combined STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, financial literacy, leadership development, civic engagement, and service-learning, attracting about 68 students. Through hands-on activities, guest speakers, outdoor learning, and collaborative projects, the camp helped prevent summer learning loss while strengthening critical thinking, creativity, teamwork, and social-emotional skills.

Sewa International's Atlanta Chapter organized a four-week Sewa AmeriCorps Summer Camp, providing K–8 students with an engaging STEM learning experience in Atlanta, GA

The camp offered a curriculum designed to prepare students for success both inside and outside the classroom. Weekly themes included STEM exploration, civic responsibility, financial literacy, and leadership, giving campers practical opportunities to solve problems, build confidence, and develop a lifelong commitment to community service.

"Our goal was to create an environment where children could continue learning, build confidence, and develop a spirit of service during the summer. Watching our campers grow academically, socially, and personally over four weeks was incredibly rewarding. Their enthusiasm, curiosity, and compassion reflected the true purpose of the program," said Varsha Chauhan, Program Director of Sewa International AmeriCorps, Atlanta.

The closing ceremony featured student presentations, including STEM demonstrations, science experiments, community-themed skits, and engineering projects such as a solar-powered car, a mechanical hand, and Newton's Pendulum. Campers also demonstrated the yoga practice they
developed throughout the program. Sewa recognized the contributions of its LEAD (Leadership, Education, and Development) high school volunteers, AmeriCorps members, teachers, and community partners, including Georgia Serves, local parks and recreation departments, Happy
Helpings, MealsPro, and other organizations whose support helped make the camp possible.

For more information about Sewa International and its education and community service programs, visit www.sewausa.org or contact media@sewausa.org.

Article Source: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sewa-international-volunteers-support-fifa-world-cup-operations-in-houston-raise-funds-for-family-services-302828618.html

HOUSTON, July 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Sewa International supported operations during three FIFA World Cup matches at NRG Stadium in Houston on June 14, June 20, and July 4 in partnership with S.A.F.E. (Security, Athletic Facilities & Events) Management. More than 120 Sewa volunteers contributed 2,051 service hours, helping welcome thousands of fans while raising over $35,000 to strengthen Sewa's Family Services Program.

The volunteers served in key operational roles, including fan entry screening, ticket scanning, directional assistance, and line management. Despite Houston's summer heat and occasional rain, they completed long shifts with dedication and teamwork. Sewa recognized their efforts during a Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast on July 12, where volunteers received commemorative FIFA volunteer T-shirts and celebrated the impact of their service.

The funds raised will support Sewa's Family Services Program, which assists individuals and families facing difficult circumstances, including the loss of a loved one, medical emergencies, family crises, immigration-related challenges, and senior citizen support. The contribution will help expand the program's reach and provide timely assistance to more community members in need.

Sewa recognized volunteers at a Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast, where they received
commemorative FIFA volunteer T-shirts and celebrated their service

"Our volunteers served with dedication, enthusiasm, and compassion throughout this unique opportunity. Working 8 to 10 hours outdoors during the Houston summer required commitment and resilience. We sincerely thank every volunteer for their selfless service and are grateful to S.A.F.E. Management for partnering with us to create this meaningful opportunity that will directly benefit families in need," said Srikanth Gundavarapu, President of Sewa International USA.

"We appreciate Sewa International and its team and the support and energy they brought to the World Cup in Houston," said Becca Holtgreive, Managing Director of S.A.F.E. Management. "We hope we have the opportunity to work together again."

Sewa volunteers welcomed thousands of fans at FIFA World Cup matches at Houston's NRG Stadium, assisting with entry screening, ticket scanning, and directions

Volunteer Vishal Khurana praised the event's organizers and said serving fans from around the world made the experience especially rewarding. Volunteer Preanka Arti, one of only 10 Sewa volunteers who served during all three matches, described the experience as physically demanding but deeply fulfilling, saying she was proud to represent her community while welcoming thousands of international fans.

For more information about Sewa International and its programs, visit www.sewausa.org or contact media@sewausa.org

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.

Article Source: https://www.newindiaabroad.com/english/indian-diaspora-community/sewa-international-launches-first-disaster-response-vehicle-in-texas

The San Antonio-based mobile unit will support faster emergency relief operations and serve as a model for other Sewa chapters across the United States.

Disaster Response Vehicle launched — City of San Antonio dignitaries, local chapter leadership, and Sewa national team / Handout

In an effort to improve its disaster response capabilities, Texas-based nonprofit Sewa International launched its first dedicated Disaster Response Vehicle (DRV) in San Antonio. The vehicle was commissioned during Sewa International’s 20th National Conference at Aum Ashram on May 2.

Painted in Sewa’s colors, the trailer bears the organization’s motto, “Service to Humanity is Service to Divinity," and is equipped with emergency response tools including personal protective equipment, shovels, mucking tools, helmets, safety vests, thermal insulated jackets, solar-powered generators, and other supplies commonly needed in the immediate aftermath of floods, storms, and other disasters.

The mobile emergency operations unit is capable of being deployed anywhere in Texas within just a few hours and can potentially serve as a model for chapters nationwide, the team behind the effort said.

View showing the items stored inside the DRV / Handout

The unveiling ceremony was led by the Sewa San Antonio chapter leadership, with volunteers dressed in the organization’s signature yellow safety vests and hard hats. National board members and senior leadership also attended the event

Several public officials from Texas joined the launch ceremony, including State Senator Jose Menendez, State Rep. John Lujan, and San Antonio Council member Ivalis Meza Gonzalez. Representative John Lujan said, “This is a fantastic initiative by Sewa toward strengthening disaster response capabilities in San Antonio and beyond. I encourage Sewa to continue working closely with local disaster response agencies to further enhance our collective emergency response efforts.”

John Lujan, State Representative, addressing the gathering during the DRV launch / Handout

The initiative emerged from lessons learned during the severe flash floods that struck the Texas Hill Country in July 2025. Following those floods, Sewa mobilized volunteers from multiple cities to assist with relief and recovery efforts, working alongside the Texas Division of Emergency Management and Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster. According to the organization, more than 200 volunteers contributed over 3,000 service hours in the recovery effort.

Sewa officials said that experience highlighted the need for a dedicated mobile response center that could streamline logistics and improve deployment speed in future emergencies.

“The first 72 hours after a disaster are critical, making advance preparedness essential for an effective volunteer response,” said Vinayak Astekar, associate director for disaster recovery at Sewa International. “This fully equipped, air-conditioned DRV will support volunteers by storing and dispensing essential gear while also serving as a mobile Sewa disaster control center. While we hope it is never needed, staying prepared is vital.”

Founded in 2003, Sewa International has grown to 46 chapters across the United States and works with more than 5,000 volunteers. The organization said it has responded to 14 disasters in the United States and 36 international disasters, providing rescue, relief, rehabilitation, and long-term recovery assistance.

Article Source: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sewa-harnesses-organizational-strength-for-social-transformation-302766650.html

SAN ANTONIO, May 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ Delivering the keynote address at Sewa International's 20th national conference on "Strategic Horizons & Operational Excellence," Prof. Chaturvedi, Vice Chancellor of Nalanda University and a distinguished economist and policy thinker, noted, "Sewa International is bringing forward the power of consolidation and collective strength by harnessing organizational strength to drive meaningful social transformation."

Members of Sewa International’s Board of Directors, Advisory Board, executive team, chapter presidents, coordinators, and
other functionaries convened at Sewa’s 20th National Conference at Om Ashram, in San Antonio, Texas

"The way we look at humanity must change, and we must move toward a collective, cosmic perspective, where the unit of concern is not just the individual but the entire ecosystem. This aligns with Indian principles of law, work, and prosperity, and acknowledges the limits of purely human-centered development," Dr. Chaturvedi added. He strongly advocated that we must reimagine institutions for humanity based on lessons from Nalanda, a celebrated seat of learning from ancient India. He also pointed out that the Washington Consensus, a set of economic policies aimed at developing countries, leads to the exploitation of nature.

Dr. Chaturvedi drew a parallel, noting that Sewa International is a grassroots, volunteer-driven organization reflecting Nalanda's age-old community-embedded model. At the 20th National Conference held in San Antonio on May 2–3, 2026, over 170 volunteers from 25 chapters attended. Participants included Sewa's board of directors, advisory board members, executive team, chapter presidents, coordinators, and other functionaries.

Jose Menendez, State Senator representing Texas Senate District 26 and a resident of San Antonio, appreciated Sewa's 20-year journey serving the underserved. John Lujan, State Representative from District 118 and a football coach, and Ivalis Meza Gonzalez, a councilwoman from San Antonio, attended the conference.

From left to right, sitting: Dr. Hetal Nayak, an Anesthesiologist; Saumitra Gokhale, a Sewa advisor; Prof. Sachin Chaturvedi,
Vice Chancellor of Nalanda University; Suresh Jain, the chairman of Sewa’s Board; & Srikanth Gundavarapu,
Sewa USA’s President at Sewa’s 20th National Conference at Om Ashram, in San Antonio, Texas

In his welcome address, Suresh Jain, Sewa Board Chairman, said the national convention provides an opportunity for volunteers to learn from each other and get inspired.

Sewa International USA President, Srikanth Gundavarapu, released the annual report, describing it as a reflection of "compassion in action" and a mirror of Sewa's impact. He also announced key new leadership positions to strengthen focus areas, including community engagement and promotion, IT, youth engagement, grants, and thought leadership and policy.

In his concluding remarks, Saumitra Gokhale, Sewa advisor, said, Sewa's vision is to create a harmonious world where humanity experiences oneness through service.

Sewa honored Ramesh Bhutada, member, Board of Directors, and Ramesh Shah, a well-known community leader from Houston, with the Sewa Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of their service and commitment to the community over the past six decades.

Founded in 2003, Sewa International now has 46 chapters across the US and over 5,000 volunteers. In 2025, Sewa conducted 1,217 events and 800 outreaches. Its major programs include Disaster Recovery, Family Services, LEAD, SHE, and Sponsor a Child (SAC), supporting thousands of beneficiaries and students in the US, India, and Sri Lanka.

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.