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VT SEVA Detroit Q2 2025 Projects
- Nandini Cheemalamarri (Detroit Communications)
- Aug 4
- 20 min read
Updated: Aug 13
From April to June 2025, the VT Seva Detroit Branch has completed over 45+ projects consisting of/such as Greeting Card projects that are sent out to community members to uplift them, multiple local community service events, to the annual Car Wash to raise funds to support the education of visually-challenged kids. VT Seva Detroit has continuously created opportunities for the Youth to help the community and learn their impact. Here is a recap of Q2 (April - June) events.
VTS Club High School Projects:
IAE:
DAV Flower-making Event, 4/2/2025
Mental Health Goodie Bags, 4/14/2025
Goodie Bag Distribution, 5/2/2025
Mother’s Day Greeting Card project, 5/6/2025
DRAW, 5/10/2025
Rock Painting, 5/16/2025
DAV Flower-making, Event 6/2/2025
Father’s Day Greeting Card Project, 6/5/2025
Troy High:
DAV Flower-making Event 1, 4/7/2025
DAV Flower-making Event 2, 4/29/2025
DRAW, 5/20/2025
Greeting Cards for Seniors, 6/8/2025
United Community Family Services, 6/27/2025
NFHS:
DAV Flower-making Event, 4/2/2025
DAV Flower-making Event, 4/9/2025
Teacher Appreciation Week, 5/5/2025
Fleece and Thank You, 5/27/2025
WIHI:
Goodie Bag Project1, 4/3/2025
Goodie Bag Project2, 4/9/2025
Goodie Bag Project3, 4/10/2025
Goodie Bag Project4, 4/11/2025
Goodie Bag Project5, 4/15/2025
DAV Flower-making Event 1, 4/25/2025
DAV Flower-making Event 2, 5/2/2025
Senior Center Flower Making Activity, 5/23/2025
Senior Center Flower Making Activity, 5/24/2025
Senior Center Flower Making Activity, 5/25/2025
Detroit Events:
Kalamazoo Group Grocery Bags Drive, 3/29/2025
Destined for Greatness Volunteering event, 4/5/2025
DAV Flower making project, 4/4/2025
Medical Relief Volunteering, 4/12/2025
Earth Day Clean Up Volunteering, 4/26/2025
DRMM Volunteering Event, 5/24/2025
Black Pond Woods Stewardship Workday, 5/31/2025
Forgotten Harvest, 6/7/2025
Fleece and Thank You, 6/14/2025
6th Annual Soccer Tournament, 6/21/2025
Food Gathers Volunteering Event, 6/28/2025
Youth Board Events:
Adopt A Road, 4/13/2025
Sneaker Drive, 4/15 - 5/30/2025
Greeting Cards Project, 5/11/2025
FocusHope, 5/17/2025
Police Appreciation Card Making/New Volunteer Meet and Greet, 6/1/2025
Walkathon Kickoff, 6/6/2025
Car Wash, 6/21/2025
Manoogian Senior Center, 6/23/2025
VTS High School Project:
IAE:
4/2/2025 - IAE: DAV Flower-making Event
On April 2nd, we had our annual DAV Forget-Me-Nots event. During this event, we created the forget-me-not flower as a symbol of remembrance and support towards veterans suffering from disabilities. To make them complete, we attached these flowers to notecards! Thanks to our focused volunteers, we reached our goal of making 1,250 flowers in a day!
Links:
4/15/2025 - IAE: Mental Health Goodie Bags
On April 15, in the spirit of mental health awareness month coming in May, we made small mental health goodie bags for the students at IA. Each of these bags had a lollipop, sticker, fidget toy and an eraser. Mental health is just as important as physical health, shaping how we think, feel, and interact with others every day. By raising awareness and providing resources like these goodie bags, we help reduce stigma, encourage open conversations, and remind students that they are not alone in their struggles. Small acts of kindness—like these goodie bags—can spark hope, promote self-care, and create a more supportive school community for everyone. We made 541 bags, reaching our goal for this event in a day! Thanks to all of the 20 volunteers for your amazing work!!
Links:
5/2/2025 - IAE: Goodie Bag Distribution
On May 2nd, after the hard work of our volunteers in creating these Mental Health Awareness Goody Bags, the month of May arrived and during our lunches we passed out all of the goody bags to the students and staff. We hope everyone liked the goody bags, and awareness was spread through this initiative!
Links:
5/6/2025 - IAE: Mothers’ Day Greeting Cards Project
On May 6th, we came together for a special Mother’s Day card-making event, creating 115 heartfelt cards for senior citizens at American House Somerset. For many seniors, Mother’s Day can be a lonely time, especially for those separated from their families. Through our handmade cards, we wanted to remind them they are seen, valued, and loved— a simple gesture that can brighten someone’s entire week. Each card was more than just paper and pencil; it was a message of gratitude and warmth, crafted with care by our 30 volunteers. Acts of kindness like these can make a real difference, offering comfort and connection to those who need it most. Thank you to everyone who joined us in spreading love and joy this Mother’s Day. Happy Mother’s Day to all the mothers out there from your VTS Club!!
Links:
5/10/2025 - IAE & Troy High: Disaster Relief at work
On May 10th, during our recent volunteer effort at Disaster Relief at Work (DRAW), our team contributed to disaster preparedness and response by organizing approximately 200 ziplock supply bags and successfully packing 90 emergency relief buckets. These supplies are intended to support individuals and families affected by natural disasters, ensuring they have access to basic necessities during times of crisis. Our work helped streamline the distribution process and directly supports DRAW’s mission to provide rapid and efficient aid when it’s needed most.
Youth Volunteers: Ahan Devaraj, Kishore Parthiban, Vedaanth Ashokkumar, Darshith Geepalem, Krithik Bhat, Rathneesh Bala .
Adult Volunteers: Balamurugan Janarthanam
Links:
5/16/2025 - IAE: Rock Painting
On May 16th, students from all grades came together in the IA courtyard to paint rocks with kind and positive messages. The goal was to spread good vibes and make our school a happier place for everyone. It was a fun way for everyone to show kindness and remind each other that small, nice things can make a big difference. These kindness rocks are placed in the courtyard because it’s a special spot where students often take breaks and recharge. While spending time there, reading these uplifting messages helps create a peaceful and positive atmosphere, encouraging everyone to feel supported throughout their day. Thank you to all the volunteers who helped out and contributed to this wonderful initiative!
Links:
6/2/2025 - IAE: DAV Flower Making Event
Over the past 2-3 months, the IAE VTS Club has been working towards appreciating Disabled American Veterans through the DAV Flowers for Good Project. Together with WIHI, Troy High, North Farmington, and IAE, we created 1250 handmade flowers each using equal materials to ultimately create 5000 handmade blue-forget-me-not flowers. All in support of DAV (Disabled American Veterans).
Links:
6/5/2025 - IAE: Father's Day Greeting Card Project
2 weeks ago, our club came together last week to make special Father’s Day cards for senior citizens in our community homes. It was heartwarming to gather as a group to recognize and honor fathers and father figures, especially those who may not always get the love and appreciation they deserve. Through our handmade cards, we hope to spread kindness and brighten the days of these important members of our community. Thank you to everyone who participated—your thoughtful cards will surely bring smiles and joy to many!
Wishing a wonderful Father’s Day to all the amazing dads and father figures out there!
Links:
VT Seva Detroit’s 5th Annual Walkathon Kickoff
On June 6, 2025, VT Seva Detroit proudly launched its 5th Annual Youth-Led Walkathon, an inspiring tradition that brings together the community to walk for a cause. This year’s proceeds will support Angels of Hope, an organization dedicated to assisting families impacted by cancer. Youth leaders form their own teams and raise awareness and funds to support this initiative.
The kickoff was filled with energy, enthusiasm, and a sense of purpose as youth leaders took charge of organizing and leading the initiative. A highlight of the day was the High School Senior Send-Off, where graduating youth volunteers were honored for their years of service, leadership, and commitment to making a difference. Their journey with VT Seva has left a lasting impact, and they serve as an inspiration for the next generation of volunteers.
Troy High:
4/7/2025 - Troy High: DAV Flower Making Event 1
On April 7, VTS Club members from Troy High School came together to honor Disabled American Veterans (DAV) by handcrafting small tribute flowers. Their effort was a gesture of appreciation for the brave service and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans.
Volunteers: Vedaanth Ashokkumar, Kishore Parthiban, Tanishka Nethaji, Shalini Srinivas, Rathneesh Bala, Hardik Bhoopathi, Ahan Devaraj, Darshith Geepalem, Arjun Pratap, Akmal Abdul Nazeer, Arush Deshmukh, Henil Patel
Links:
4/29/2025 - Troy High: DAV flower making event 2
On April 22, members of the VTS Club at Troy High School honored Disabled American Veterans (DAV) by handcrafting small tribute flowers. This meaningful gesture showed appreciation for the brave service and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans.
Volunteers:
Vedaant Ashokkumar, Kishore Parthiban, Tanishka Nethaji, Shalini Srinivas, Rathneesh Bala, Hardik Bhoopathi, Ahan Devaraj, Darshith Geepalem, Arjun Pratap, Akmal Abdul Nazeer
Links:
5/10/2025 - Troy High & IAE: DRAW
During our recent volunteer effort at Disaster Relief at Work (DRAW), our team contributed to disaster preparedness and response by organizing approximately 200 ziplock supply bags and successfully packing 90 emergency relief buckets. These supplies are intended to support individuals and families affected by natural disasters, ensuring they have access to basic necessities during times of crisis. Our work helped streamline the distribution process and directly supports DRAW’s mission to provide rapid and efficient aid when it’s needed most.
Youth Volunteers: Ahan Devaraj, Kishore Parthiban, Vedaanth Ashokkumar, Darshith Geepalem, Krithik Bhat, Rathneesh Bala .
Adult Volunteers: Balamurugan Janarthanam
Links:
6/8/2025 - Troy High: Greeting Cards for Seniors
Troy High VTS members came together on May 27 to create handmade cards for the residents of the Brookdale Senior Center. Each card was filled with warm wishes for a joyful summer and heartfelt messages.
Once the cards were complete, we personally delivered them to Brookdale. Seeing the residents' faces light up as they read our messages was incredibly rewarding. Their happiness and gratitude made the experience truly special for all of us.
Links:
6/27/2025 - Troy High: United Community Family Services
On 7/7 and 7/8 Troy High VTSEVA volunteered at United Community Family Services.
On 7/7 where we packaged backpacks for children containing snacks and food for them for the week! We also moved several
Items regarding clothes, appliances and decor in their free shopping center warehouse for families in need. On 7/8 we volunteered as camp counselors for their summer study camp! We helped them with homework, served food and monitored them during their free time along with teaching them science topics this week. UCFS provides programs that guide, support, and empower individuals and families. We are grateful for the chance to support a great cause and work with the families firsthand!
Project Lead: Anirvin Ramanan
Youth Volunteers: Rathneesh Bala, Ahan Devraj, Shalini Srinivas, Shriya Doddugani Harish.
Links:
NFHS:
4/2/2025 and 4/9/2025 - NFHS: DAV Flower making event
On April 2nd and 9th, VTS members volunteered after school to create “forget-me-not” flower crafts to honor and remember disabled American veterans! This small act of appreciation was a heartfelt way to show our respect and gratitude to those who served, and we’re proud to have contributed to such a meaningful cause!!
Volunteers: Masera, Nora, Lillian Applebaum, Izyan, Shivani, Samriddhi, Rita, Lauren K., Lauren R., Lillian Bono, and Kennedy
Links:
5/5/2025 - NFHS: Teacher Appreciation Week
NFHS VTS Club students were showing the love this Teacher Appreciation Week!
Taking time out of our homeroom to create personalized “thank-you!” cards was one way to honor the teachers who have enhanced the richness of our lives by inspiring us, providing valuable guidance, or being an adult to rely on in the lives of students in need of one
Good teachers are invaluable to society, and these cards help serve as a reminder of how much teachers help shape the next generation. We wanted to express our gratitude towards the teachers who often do much more than they get credit for by doing their job!
Links:
5/27/2025 - NFHS: Fleece and Thank You
VTS Club volunteered at Fleece and Thank You on May 17th to make fleece blankets for children in hospitals! It was such a fun, hands-on way to spread comfort, hope, and kindness, one blanket at a time! :)
Volunteers: Samriddhi, Noreen, and Kennedy
Links:
WIHI:
4/3/2025, 4/9/2025, 4/10/2025, 4/11/2025 & 4/15/2025 - WIHI: Goodie Bag Projects 1-5
WIHI VT Seva made 119 senior packages for the graduating class of 2025! each of these packages had an assortment of items, including playdoh, hershey kisses, gum, a squishy fidget, sticky note tabs, and a heartfelt note of congratulations and goodluck
Volunteers: Aiden, Saanvi, Alicia, Matteo, Pierce, Aanchal, Aishani, Allegra, Joselyn, Angelina, Mahika, Ruby, Andrea, Avantika, Mugdha, Alexa, Shreya, Aadya, Isha, Ryan, Aarit, Manish, Mugdha, Jaden, Shreya, Anantika, Navya
Links:
4/25/25 & 5/2/2025 - WIHI: DAV Flower making events
On 4/25 and 5/2, we hosted our DAV Forget-Me-Not Event. During this service event, volunteers and handcrafted forget-me-not flowers. We then attached these flowers to notecards to honor veterans suffering from disabilities in appreciation for their brave service. We made 1250 flowers!
Volunteers:
Aadya, Aiden, Aishani, Aanchal, Alicia, Allegra, Andrea, Avantika, Jaden, Matteo, Mugdha, Pierce, Ruby, Saanvi, Shreya
Links:
5/22/2025, 5/23/2025 & 5/25/2025 - WIHI:
Over two days, WIHI VT SEVA held a volunteer event where students made pipe cleaner flowers for DAV. A lot of students came by to help, and the atmosphere was full of energy, laughter, and teamwork. We created a variety of colorful pipe cleaner flowers, and later visited a senior center, where we taught the residents how to make their own. We also shared the flowers we had made and helped them turn them into small bouquets, which they absolutely loved! It was a simple but meaningful way to give back, and the strong turnout showed how much everyone enjoyed coming together for a good cause.
Volunteers:
Aanchal, Pierce, Alicia, Andrea, Aiden, Aadya, Saanvi, Allegra, Noa, Aishani, Shreya, Sadie, Aashi, Ella, Anantika, Alexa, Sahasra, and Matteo
Links:
Detroit Events:
3/29/2025 - Kalamazoo Group Grocery Bags Drive
A group of 7 youth volunteers from the Kalamazoo region, Michigan took part in this 1st service activity to help Twelve baskets, a local food party in Kalamazoo. Together, they all collected 275 bags & donated to the food pantry.These bags will help them to pack groceries to all the families in need during food distribution.
Youth Volunteers:
Advay Boda, Adithi Tadepalli, Sanvi Gole, Sejal Lohmor, Srilekha Tadepalli
Adult Volunteers:
Revathy Tadepalli and other parents who helped drop off bags at the food pantry
Links:
4/5/2025 - Destined for Greatness Volunteering event
Youth Lead: Videep Routhu
More than 500 Detroit families were supported through our efforts.
On April 5th, 2025, both youth and adult volunteers came together for a volunteering event at Destined for Greatness. We sorted clothing that will be distributed to those in need on April 16th. This effort wasn’t just about organizing clothes—it was about preparing a space for healing and support.
When individuals arrive to pick up clothes, they’re also asked about deeper challenges they may be facing, such as unemployment, housing insecurity, or mental health concerns. The team at Destined for Greatness ensures they are connected to the right resources and guidance to find real solutions. Volunteering today played a direct role in helping others’ lives get better.
Youth Volunteers: Videep Routhu, Varshini Barla, Kaustubh Dingari, Siddarth Ram, Tarun Senthilkumar, Anvi Patel, Shraya Ved, Akshara Datla, Dhruvi Shah, Sai Praval Kotha, Sanyog Iyengar, Medhansh Mansanpally, Aaryan Gajawada, Aarthi Ravikumar
Adult Volunteers: Vanitha Gopalan, Suresh Rajan, Ramesh Routhu, Vijaya Datla, Shilpa Shah, Ravi Datla, Srivardhan Dingari, Lalitha Barla, Priya Doreairaj
Links:
4/4/2025 - DAV Flower making project
Youth Lead: Arav Patel
Impact: Our volunteers made over 5000 forget me not flowers to give to our veterans.
Forget Me Not National Day is on November 10th in the USA & it is a special day that reminds us to honor and support veterans who have returned from service with injuries and disabilities.
During this forget me not flower making activity, our youth volunteers exhibited great team work & it was a fun team building experience as well working together & accomplishing the goal.
Youth: Arav Patel, Anvi Patel, Dhruvi Shah, Tirtha Parikh, Anushka Vikram, Saanvi Rameswarapu, Kapil Inamdar, Ranchana Raghunathan, Harshita Vangaveti, Harini Kopparapu, Rana Velagapudi, Kaustubh Dingari, Anirudh Madhamshetty, Pahal Shah
Links:
4/12/2025 - Medical Relief Volunteering
Youth Lead: Sanyog Iyengar
Together, we helped sort out over 4 large boxes of medical supplies and determine which ones are expired or are still usable. These will be used by people in need in many developing countries.
We had the privilege to volunteer at the World Medical Relief, where we all sorted through medical equipment which will be sent to places in need of high quality medical equipment. The World Medical Relief is also a state of the art pacemaker facility, and they gave us an amazing tour of their facility, where they collect, sterilize, and repair pacemakers before they are then given to others who need them.
Youth Volunteers: Sanyog Iyengar, Rana Nagoji, Siddarth Ram, Kaustubh Dingari, Varshan Muhinthan, Tarun Senthilkumar, Varshini Barla, Shravya Dumbala, Yathi Debbata, Tejas Raja
Adult Volunteers: Vanitha Gopalan; Srivardhan Dingari, Suresh Rajan
World Medical Relief has given aid to 70+ countries, fueled by the commitment of 6,000+ volunteers. The work that they do is truly amazing, from sourcing medical equipment to send to countries to being the only place in the world where pacemakers can be refurbished. We are extremely grateful for World Medical Relief to be providing us with such a wonderful opportunity.
Links:
4/26/2025 - Earth Day Clean Up Volunteering
Youth Lead: Sai Sri Ram Karnati
VT Seva Detroit volunteers were honored to take part in the City of Farmington Hills' 12th Annual Litter Cleanup event. Nine dedicated volunteers walked more than 2.5 miles clearing litter along the stretch from 9 Mile and Haggerty Road to Gill Road, collecting over 6 bags of trash. Splitting into two groups, they efficiently divided the route and worked hard to leave the sidewalks looking spotless.
Youth volunteers:
Anvi Patel, Arav Patel, Yathi Debbata, Nemish Debbata, Sai Sri Ram Karnati, Rana Nagoji, Shreyas Posam, Saanvi Rameswarapu, Yashasen Jugatap
Adult Volunteers :
SrinathBabu Karnati, Swathi Debbata
Links:
5/24/2025 - DRMM Volunteering Event
Youth Lead: Tarun Senthilkumar
Together, we were able to help Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries Genesis House II homeless shelter, which serves over 120 Detroit families in need.
We contributed to their mission through a variety of service activities, including:
• Painting rooms to help improve the living spaces for residents
• Sorting clothing donations to ensure individuals have access to essential items
• Mopping and cleaning the entire hallways to maintain a clean and safe environment
• Cleaning and organizing the dining room and library to create a more welcoming atmosphere
• Serving dinner to the families living at the facility, offering support and kindness through a shared meal
Youth Volunteers: Tarun Senthilkumar; Kushi Kanumuri; Sanyog Iyengar; Sai Sahasra Namuduri; Akshara Datla; Pahal Shah; Swara Rege; Tejas Raja; Rathneesh Bala; Amogh Mavatoor; Rishabh Mavatoor; Siddarth Ram; Shalini Srinivas; Varun Aerabati
Adult Volunteers: Vanitha Gopalan; Suresh Rajan; Praveen Kanumuri; Vaishnavi Aerabati; Vijaya Datla; Raghunathan Namuduri
The Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries (DRMM) is a faith-based nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals overcome homelessness, poverty, and substance. Through its wide range of programs, DRMM addresses the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of each person, with the goal of helping them rebuild their lives and become healthy, productive members of the community.
Links:
5/31/2025 - Black Pond Woods Stewardship Workday
Youth Lead: Anushka Vikram
Together, we helped restore and preserve Black Pond Woods by removing invasive plant species, contributing to the health and beauty of Ann Arbor’s green spaces.
Our volunteers had the opportunity to make a lasting impact on our local environment by participating in a stewardship workday at Black Pond Woods, a vital part of the green corridor of parks in Ann Arbor. This area includes 62 connected properties that are essential to maintaining local biodiversity and natural beauty.
The event focused on environmental conservation through:
1. Hand-picking invasive plant species across the Black Pond Woods nature property, including garlic mustard, bittercress, and dame’s rocket, to make space for native plants to thrive.
Our volunteers’ dedicated efforts directly supported the health of this unique woodland ecosystem and contributed to the long-term preservation of local green spaces.
Youth Volunteers: Anushka Vikram, Siddarth Ram, Ameya Yeddula, Rana Nagoji, Mihir Inamdar, Sai Sahasra Namudri, Varun Aerabati, Rathneesh Bala, Saanvi Rameswarapu, Kishore Partiban
Adult Volunteers: Vanitha Gopalan, Suresh Rajan, Vikram Muthyam, Vaishnavi Aerabati, Raghunath Namuduri
Links:
6/7/2025 - Forgotten Harvest
Youth Lead: Sahara Namuduri
Our volunteers were able to pack 15,000 pounds of produce, fruits & food items that would be distributed to various metro Detroit food pantries & homeless shelters, thus serving the underprivileged people in need!!
All of our volunteers worked together in various areas such as
- Sorting foods like vegetables, fruits, TV dinners, dairy, and baked goods for better categorization
- Identifying and removing old foods for the safety of the people that benefit from this system.
- Cleaning the equipment and tables to ensure that a sterile and clean environment is upheld.
Here are our volunteers who participated in this event:
Youth Volunteers: Sahasra Namuduri, Hasini Ramannagari, Ameya Yeddula, Manya Narasepalli, Arshi Narasepalli, Krithi Alugoti, Anushka Vikram, Yathi Shekar Debbata, Nemish Debbata, Snigdha Lakkakula, Swara Rege
Adult Volunteers: Vanitha Gopalan, Suresh Rajan, Raghunath Namuduri
Links:
6/14/2025 - Fleece and Thank You
Youth Lead: Shraya Ved
With our help, Fleece & Thank you could quality check 533 blankets, which will be distributed to children in hospitals to support them during their long-term illness.
This was a very fulfilling experience for all our volunteers in this event & everyone worked together to quality check these blankets to distribute to children in hospitals all over Michigan.
Aspects of the quality check are:
1. Checking to make sure blankets are properly tied together
2. Making sure there are no rips or stains on blankets
Youth Volunteers: Aarav Holani, Devon Holani, Snigdha Lakkakula, Rathneesh Bala, Ameya Yeddula, Arav Patel, Ishaan Jaseen, Advithi Kothapalli, Shreeya Sahu, Shraya Ved, Sanyog Iyengar, Varun Aerabati, Shiv Ramamurthy
Adult Volunteers: Neha Ved, Pallavi Patel, Avani Holani, Vaishnavi Aerabati
Links:
6/21/2025 - 6th Annual Soccer Tournament
Our 6th Annual Soccer for a Cause Tournament concluded with great success on June 21st 2025 - 22 thrilling games across 3 age groups and over 120 passionate players! Each year, we continue to grow—and this year’s turnout, energy, and spirit were simply unmatched. This year's spirited tournament not only brought together passionate players, families, and volunteers but also helped us raise enough funds to support the education of 12 visually challenged kids at Nethra Vidyalaya for an entire year. That's the true victory!
Youth Volunteers: Shruthika, Yathi Shekar, Nemish, Advithi, Ishaan, Akshara, Sri Bhargava, Paheli, Srivibha
Adult Volunteers Venkat, Abhinav, Srinath, Bala, Sudheer, Keerthy, Vanitha, Nandini, Darshan, Sreenivas, Priya, Jaishankar, Sarath, Praveen and Suresh.
Links:
6/28/2025 - Food Gathers Volunteering Event
Youth Lead: Advithi Kothapalli
Our volunteers were able to sort through 1,232 pounds of rescued food donations that will be delivered to families in need by Monday, supporting the fight against hunger in our own community!
All of our volunteers worked hard in various areas such as:
• Sorting food donations in the freezer, identifying whether each item was safe for delivery, compostable, or ready for disposal
• Ensuring all rescued items were properly categorized before being sent out to over 150 community partner organizations
• Helping maintain a clean sorting environment
We are incredibly grateful to Food Gatherers, a Washtenaw County nonprofit that rescues over 10 million pounds of food annually, for giving us the opportunity to serve. With 1 in 7 people facing food insecurity, every pound of food sorted makes a huge difference.
Youth Volunteers: Advithi Kothapalli, Akshara Datla, Varun Aerabati, Rana Nagoji, Xiangxiang Zhou, Ameya Yeddula, Rathneesh Bala, Anish Kompella, Siddarth Ram, Shreeya Sahu, Kishore Parthiban, Sanyog Iyengar, Rishabh Mavatoor, Arav Patel, Avni Patel
Adult Volunteers: Vanitha Gopalan. Suresh Rajan, Sarat Kothapalli, Vaishnavi Aerabati, Sanjana Datla, Bala Janarthanam
Links:
Youth Board Events:
4/13/2025 - Adopt A Road
In honor of Earth Day, VT Seva Detroit Youth once again showcased its commitment to environmental stewardship through action, not just awareness. 8 mile road between haggarty and meadowbrook - a stretch proudly adopted by VT Seva. On 13th April 2025, 9 enthusiastic youth and 6 dedicated adults came together to clean 1 mile of road on both sides, covering 2 miles. The team found and cleared a wide variety of litter, ranging from the expected to the unusual - cigar butts, soda cans, plastic bottles, wood sticks, metal plates, golf balls, and even a squirrel skeleton.
This event wasn’t just about removing debris—it was about instilling values of responsibility, respect for nature, and the power of youth-led change. Our youths felt proud knowing that they’re the reason this road is clean. The Adopt-A-Road program has allowed VT Seva Detroit’s youth volunteers to take real ownership of their environment. Through regular cleanups like this, they learned first-hand the impact of pollution and the importance of being proactive citizens.
Youth Volunteers: Aashirtha, Aditi Jethri, Advithi, Kushi, Harini, Oviya, Rana, Siddarth & Tarun
Adult Volunteers: Jaisankar, Praveen, Prasath, Murali, Sarat & Priya
Link:
04/15/2025 - 05/30/2025 - Sneaker Drive
In a powerful effort led by five VT SEVA youth leaders, over 260 pairs of sneakers were collected from friends, family, neighbors, and community members over the course of a few weeks. These shoes weren’t just donations, they show the passion behind each of the youth leaders and VT SEVA as a whole. We also have 20 other VTSEVA youth board volunteers who donated for this cause. While donating to GotSneakers, this initiative will greatly benefit the environment by reducing the carbon footprint, help underserved get a chance to wear a good pair of shoes and most importantly support VT Seva’s Feeding Hope program which provides food to visually challenged and tribal students. This drive shows that small steps—like giving your old sneakers—can lead to big change. Each pair donated is a pair not polluting our earth, a student given the support to succeed, and an opportunity for the youth to take the initiative. Be the reason someone walks toward a brighter future.
Youth Volunteers: Ahan, Akshith, Ameya, Arav, Avni, Dhruvi, Hardik, Harini, Kalki, Kavi, Kishore, Mihir, Rachana, Rathneesh, Shalini, Siddarth, Swara, Tanishka, Tarun, Varshan, Varshini, Varun
5/11/2025 - Greeting Cards Project
Youth Lead: Oviya Jaisankar
In celebration of Mother’s Day, our VT Seva Detroit Youth Board members once again brought joy to a very special group of people through their creativity and compassion. This year, our youth created heartfelt Mother’s Day greeting cards that were delivered to residents at the Manoogian Manor and Woodhaven Retirement Community.
For many of the residents, small gestures like these hold deep meaning, especially during holidays that can sometimes feel quiet. This project was incredibly special—not just for the recipients, but also for our youth. While delivering the cards, we had the honor of meeting several of the mothers, including Sandra and Helen. Their gratitude was heartfelt—Sandra and Helen gave us warm hugs and shared their blessings for our future. Helen insisted that we stay for dinner and get teary-eyed when we had to leave. Thankfully, we will be visiting them again soon!
Thanks to all our youth volunteers who made the cards!
Youth Volunteers: Oviya Jaisankar, Swara Rege, Varun Aerabati, Kushi Kanumuri, Rithika Bommati, Yathi Debbata, Nemish Debbata, Avni Patel , Arav Patel , Videep Routhu, Aanya Das, Saanvi Rameswarapu, Shreya Shetty, Dhruvi Shah, Advithi Kothapalli, Drithi Reddy Bathula, Yash Jagtap, Rachana Raghunathan, Vedhya Raja, Sanyog Iyengar, Supraja Pattangi, Shipra Putrevu, Hiba Zyna, Ananya Sankar, Ameya Yadala, Aashritha Golla, Kushal Durga
Adult Volunteers: Komathy, Shilpa, Srinath, Nalini, Priya
Link:
5/17/2025 - FocusHope
Youth Lead: Rishabh Mavatoor
For over 56 years, Focus: HOPE has continued to fight racism, poverty, and injustice. Each year, Focus: HOPE serves thousands of community members across Southeast Michigan. On May 17th, 2025 VTSEVA Detroit youth board had an amazing time volunteering at the Focus Hope organization. We helped pack non perishable items, canned foods, dry food, and drinks into boxes and got them ready to be delivered. We were able to make around 1000 food boxes and 100 personal hygiene boxes, and these boxes would be delivered to seniors at churches and apartments. This was a great experience as it allowed us all to understand how privileged we are to have food every day and how we can help others who may not be so fortunate.
Youth Volunteers: Aaryan, Advithi, Amogh, Anusha, Dhruva, Kishore, Rathneesh, Rishabh, Sanyog, Tejas,
Adult Volunteers: Niveditha, Bala, Raja Ameya
6/1/2025 - Police Appreciation Card Making/New Volunteer Meet and Greet
On June 1st, 2025, for the very first time, VT Seva Detroit Youth Board organized a "New Volunteer Meet n Greet & Police Appreciation Card Making"event at the Farmington Library.
21 of our Youth Board members participated in the event with their friends to give them an opportunity to learn about VT Seva, its mission, services and accomplishments by your amazing Detroit volunteers, both locally and internationally.
During the event, VTS Detroit YB Leadership Team: Siddarth Ram (President), Oviya JaiSankar (Secretary), Amogh Mavatoor (Communications Lead), Advithi Kothapalli (Communications Lead), organized beautiful informative posters followed by a presentation for the new volunteers to learn about VTSEVA'S five pillars and gave them glimpses of what they are gaining by joining our team. Followed by the presentation, volunteers socialized with yummy snacks and participated in making beautiful and thoughtful Appreciation Cards for our Novi Police officers, thanking them for their service to the community and keeping us safe. These cards will be presented to them during our annual visit on Police Appreciation Day on 20th Sep 2025.
A total of 10 new youth joined our team and together with 20 of our current Youth Board members they made about 74 appreciation cards for the Novi Police department.
Link:
6/21/2025 - Car Wash
Youth Leads: Varshan Muhinthan, Sanyog Iyengar
On a very hot, sunny day, a group of 10 enthusiastic VTSEVA Youth volunteers rolled up their sleeves for a meaningful cause. With buckets, soap, scrubbers, posters and plenty of teamwork, they managed to raise money to support one NetraVidyala student's education. Their teamwork, energy, and community spirit made a real difference—and showed how even small efforts can lead to big impact.
Thanks to each and everyone who helped these kids reach their goal..
Youth Volunteers: Amogh Mavatoor, Aarthi Ravikumar, Advik Ramesh, Hajanthan Muhinthan, Rithika Bommathi, Sanyog Iyengar, Shreeya Sahu, Tejas Raja, Varshan Muhinthan, Varun Aerabati
Adult Volunteers: Muhinthan, Nalini, Sripriya, Vaishnavi
Link:
6/23/2025 - Manoogian Senior Center
Youth Lead: Oviya Jaisankar
On Monday, June 23, VTSEVA Detroit Youth Board had a wonderful time at the Manoogian Manor Senior Center spending time with the residents during their Monday night gathering. During the event, all the volunteers spent time talking to the seniors about their days and learning about their lives, helping the seniors play lawn games like cornhole and ladder toss, and passing out some delicious, refreshing drinks that were perfect for the hot summer day. In addition, we also got to listen to some beautiful music played by Sanyog Iyengar on a keyboard that was in the facility. By the end of the event, we hadn't realized how much time had passed and the residents didn't want us to leave, but we assured them that we would be back soon enough and that we couldn't wait to spend time with them once again. Overall, we all had such a fun time at the event and can't wait for the next one! If you were not able to make it this time, hopefully we will see you at our future visits this summer!
Youth Volunteers: Oviya Jaisankar, Yathi Debbata, Nimish Debbata, Sri Bhargava Samudrala, Arav Patel, Sanyog Iyengar, and Tejas Raja.
Adult Volunteers: Priya Jaisankar, Jaisankar Kannan, Suparna Iyengar
Greatly described each and every event for entire 3 months. Good Job. Awesome VT SEVA Detroit volunteers. 👏👏👏👏👏