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“The greatest wealth is health.” –Virgil.   On a sunny morning, the community came together for a cause close to their hearts. The VT Seva Detroit Youth, known for their passionate commitment to service, organized a highly successful walkathon to support families impacted by cancer. This event was a remarkable blend of dedication, compassion, and community spirit, making a significant impact on the lives of those facing the challenges of cancer. For 6 weeks our youth conducted a virtual walkathon, over this period, they were recruiting team members, walking, and tracking their miles. 36 Team Leads, 43 days, 235 participants raised $7000 and walked 14,081 miles!!!! VT Seva Detroit youths yet again proved their passion to help! VT Seva Detroit Youth Board successfully completed their 4th annual hybrid walkathon on July 13, 2024 , to support Angels of Hope  - A Family Cancer Foundation supporting Michigan families impacted by Cancer.   The youth encouraged their team members to walk every day and ensure everyone is staying active. They used this opportunity to learn about Michigan State Parks. It is a great way to combine physical activity with education and appreciation for the natural environment. They researched about the state parks in Michigan and shared the information with all their peers. The 4th Annual walkathon is really a special one for our youths. A well-known Philanthropist, Mr. Sunny Reddy, and his wife Dr. Sirisha Nemallapudi, MD from Smile Centers PC – Farmington have pledged to match every dollar donated up to $3500 . This generous offer effectively doubles the impact of each contribution, providing a significant boost to the walkathon's fundraising efforts. Our youths worked towards raising $3500 and they prospered in their goal. Mr. Sunny Reddy said, "Supporting our youth is an investment in the future. Their passion and dedication to making a positive change inspire me, and I am thrilled to contribute to their efforts. Together, we can make a meaningful difference." We had kind donors who came forward to cover the expenses Mr. Sarat Kothapalli, Mrs. Siri Yadalapali, and friends of Oviya. The youth-led walkathon is more than just a fundraising event; it is a community gathering that brings together individuals from all walks of life to support a common cause. Participants will walk, run, and celebrate the power of collective action, showcasing how every step counts in the journey toward positive change. Without these young team leads it is not possible for us to reach the goal and support as many families as we can.  On July 13, the final walkathon day, with 50+ participants, we kicked it off with a yoga session by Aruna from Art of Living . All participants were able to stretch their muscles before the long walk. Our wonderful youth team leads are: Avni Patel, Swara Rege, Abisrishti Ram, Kushi Kanumuri, Oviya Jaisankar, Anvika Perumalla, Hajanthan Muhinthan, Varshan Muhinthan, Abhiram Mudeganti, Sai Sriram Karnati, Advithi Kothapalli, Akshitha Mylavarapu,Rishi Chowdhury, Sreenika Perumalla, Aanya Das, Aarthi Ravikumar, Abhimanyu Kommareddi, Aditi Jethri Kompally, Akshith Ashwanth, Akul Madhamshetty, Ansh Patil, Anuraag Balaji, Arya Cheemalamari, Cordelia Laframboise, Harsh Ahire, Kaustubh Dingari, Sathvik Tirumala Kanduri, Shalini Srinivas, Shivani Nimmagadda, Shreya Shetty, Shruthi Adduri, Shruthika Pallapothu, Sriraam Hebbar, Teja Cheemalamari, Veena Karthik and Yathi shekar debbata. We had kind donors who came forward to cover the expenses Mr. Sarat Kothapalli, Mrs. Siri Yadalapali, and friends of Oviya. On top of achieving the goal of getting at least 4 team members, some team leads exceeded that! This year’s winners are: Individuals With the Most Miles 1st Place – Mr. Suresh 2nd Place – Sai Sriram Karnati 3rd Place – Ms. Vanitha Gopalan Team With the Most Miles 1st Place - Abisrishti Ram 2nd Place – Sai Sriram Karnati 3rd Place – Swara Rege Team Leads With the Most Members 1st Place – Avni Patel (18 Members) 2nd Place – Swara Rege (13 Members) 3rd Place – Kushi Kanumuri (12 Members)   Thanks to Mr. Jason Canvasser  for visiting us representing Angels of Hope. Jason explained about how Angels of Hope helps families impacted by cancer, it was really inspiring. Our youths were humbled to be part of the great cause. This year’s Walkathon would also not have been possible without the parents who sponsored the snacks and drinks that kept all the participants' energy up! Thanks to the parents ( Ms. Rachana, Mr. Ram, and Mr. Jordan Laframboise ) who sponsored water bottles, fruits, snack bars, and cookies. Thanks to Ms. Veena, Ms. Rachana  & Mr. Jaisankar for sponsoring decoration items. All the team leads received certificates at the end. Thanks to 𝐔𝐭𝐭𝐚𝐦𝐣𝐢 for website creation and for providing support with website maintenance and updates. Thanks to all the volunteers who helped with setup to cleanup! We are very grateful for a successful Walkathon this year and thank all the contributors. Our youths use every opportunity to learn something. Michigan is blessed with beautiful 103 state parks and recreation areas. During our virtual walkathon, our youths had a virtual tour of 42 State Parks, they learned and posted details about them every day with their peers . Below is the list of state parks and fun facts about them. Enjoy reading and plan to visit them someday 😊 More pictures and videos are at https://photos.app.goo.gl/znMUSvBconP2qGWY7 . Our wonderful volunteers covered the event from the beginning to the end, please go through the pictures and videos. State Park List: State Park Fun Fact Indian Lake State Park, Manistique, MI It has 4th largest inland lake in upper penninsula Fayette Historic State Park, Garden, MI Fayette was a manufacturing site that produced charcoal and pig iron Wells State Park, Stephenson, MI This park was donated to Michigan by the children of John Wells. Bewabic State Park, Crystal Falls, MI It is situated on Fortune Lake Lake Gogebic State Park, Marenisco, MI  It has the largest natural inland lake of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Ontonagon, MI The Porcupine Mountains, or Porkies, are a group of small mountains. This was the site of copper mining in the 19th century. Twin Lakes State Park, Toivola, MI The twin lakes, Lake Roland and Lake Gerald. Lake Roland is one of the warmest inland lake. McLain State Park,  Hancock, MI It has two miles of sand beach Fort Wilkins Historic State Park, Copper Harbor, MI The park features a restored 1844 army military outpost, including 19 buildings, with a living history program provided by the Michigan History Center. Baraga State Park, Baraga, MI This park is named after Bishop Frederic Baraga. Craig Lake State Park, Champion, MI It is the most remote in Michigan’s state park system Van Riper State Park, Champion, MI This park is named after Dr. Paul Van Riper, who practiced medicine in the area for most of his 91 years Laughing Whitefish Falls State Park, Rock River Township, MI It is considered the most spectacular of Michigan's falls.                 Palms Book State Park, Manistique, MI The park is home to Kitch-iti-kipi or the “Big Spring.” Muskallonge Lake State Park, Newberry, MI The park was also the old site of a Coast Guard Life Saving Station.   Tahquamenon Falls, McMillan Township, MI This falls is called Niagara Falls of the Upper Peninsula Brimley State Park, Brimley, MI The park is one of the oldest state parks in the Upper Peninsula and was established in 1923 Michilimackinac Historical Society, St Ignace, MI The fort served as a supply depot for traders in the western Great Lakes. Straits State Park It has fantastic views of the Mackinac Bridge and Straits of Mackinac Wilderness State Park, Carp Lake, MI This park is designated dark sky preserve offering stellar views of the sky Onaway State Park, Onaway, M It is on the shore of beautiful Black Lake Negwegon State Park, Harrisville, MI This park is popular with birdwatchers Sturgeon State Park, Carp Lake, MI he protected dunes provide habitat for the endangered Piping Plover and four threatened species of plants (Lake Huron Tansy, Pitcher's Thistle, Pumpell's Bromegrass and Houghton's Goldenrod) Harrisville State Park, Harrisville, MI This is the place to watch large and varied migratory populations of warblers and other song birds Tawas Point State Park, East Tawas, MI It has been referred to as the "Cape Cod of the Midwest." Bay City State Park, Bangor Township, MI This is home to one of the largest remaining freshwater, coastal wetlands on the Great Lakes, the Tobico Marsh Sleeper State Park, Caseville, MI Great location to watch both sunrises and sunsets Port Crescent State Park, Port Austin, MI exceptional stargazing in the park’s dark sky preserve Sanilac Petroglyphs Histroical Park, Cass City, MI This park protects and interprets Michigan’s largest known collection of early Native American teachings carved in stone. The carvings are called Ezhibiigaadek Asin, “written on stone,” in the Anishinaabemowin language Lakeport State Park, Lakeport, MI It has the best beach for rock hunting Algonac State Park, Algonac, MI This park has undeveloped portion encompasses significant "lakeplain" prairie and savannas. Belle Isle Park, Detroit, MI Belle Isle Park is the largest city-owned island park in the United States. Maybury State Park, Northville, MI   In 1919, the land now known as Maybury State Park held a tuberculosis sanitarium. Seven Lakes State Park, Holly, MI   Seven Lakes actually has seven lakes and a couple of ponds  Meridian-Baseline Historic State Park, Pleasant Lake, MI There are two monuments (or markers) that are the basis for all land surveys in Michigan and parts of Ohio Watkins Lake State Park Parking Area, Brooklyn, MI The park is recognized for its connection to the Underground Railroad via the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom. Hayes State Park, Onstead, MI This is known for its quiet setting, wildlife viewing and 5-mile trail. Cambridge Junction Historic State Park, Brooklyn , MI It has 200 year old farmhouse Sterling State Park,  Monroe, MI It has the trail connects to River Raisin National Battlefield Park   Reflection from a few of our walkathon team leads! Avni Patel: My experience in being one of the leaders in the Walkathon was very inspiring. Gathering members into my group to be a part of helping with the Angels of Hope was a very heartwarming feeling. This not only opened my eyes but also the participants' eyes in seeing how reality really is for some people in our community. Knowing that I have put together a team that can help others by helping to pay rent, utility bills, and groceries makes me feel very blessed. The Walkathon will help ensure that these lives will have a quick recovery. I hope hearing this will help inspire and motivate others to help out more for this cause as it helps by keeping people living a happy and healthy life! Swara Rege: This is my first time participating in the VT Seva Walkathon as a team leader. I feel truly grateful that I was able to raise funds to help cancer families through VT Seva and Angels of Hope! I lost my paternal grandmother to this dreadful disease a few years back so I felt a personal connection to this cause. I am also grateful that my maternal grandparents, uncle, and aunt joined my team and participated from India. Kushi Kanumuri: I am so grateful that I got this opportunity to help and contribute, to such a great project to support the Angels of Hope Foundation. It was very fun to help set up for the walkathon and also improve my social and public speaking skills with people, knocking on multiple doors while talking to participants to sign them up for the walkathon and raising money. I am very happy that I was part of such a great cause. It was an amazing experience. Abisrishti Ram: Being a team lead in this walkathon was a great experience. It was really nice to reach out to people and have them join my team for a good cause. All my team members put in a great amount of work and I’m so grateful for that I can’t wait to do this again next year and fundraise even more money! Oviya Jaisankar: The 4th annual youth-led walkathon was such an amazing experience; year after year it just gets better and better. The combination of competition and encouragement continues to make this month-long event something I look forward to every summer. We all have a friendly competition to see who can get the most team members and the most miles, this encourages all of us to strive to not only better the community but also to better ourselves by walking more and getting in more steps. I am so grateful and thankful to the wonderful people who joined my team this year, we truly could not succeed without everyone's support. I'm so glad that I was able to be a part of this event this year and I can't wait to do it again next year and support families impacted by cancer. Anvika Perumalla: As with every year, the walkathon is a wonderful opportunity in which VTSEVA encourages a large community to come together under one cause. Although there may not be a cure for cancer, everyone involved in the walkathon plays a large role in making this journey just a little bit easier for those fighting every day. I am very proud to be a contributor to this event every year and I hope to further this impact in the future as well. Abhiram Mudeganti: This year I really enjoyed my experience in the VT Seva Walkathon once again. It encouraged me to get more steps in every day and share this opportunity with others giving them a chance to support a great cause. I am very happy that I was able to contribute to the Angels of Hope Foundation and happy that I have shared this opportunity with others. Sai Sriram Karnati: Participating in the Walkathon to support Angels of Hope, who assist cancer families, and achieving second place was a truly rewarding experience for me. It was not just about the physical challenge but also about the opportunity to contribute to a cause that is close to my heart. Knowing that my team and my efforts directly supported cancer families and helped raise awareness made the entire journey incredibly meaningful. Coming in second place was a testament to my team's dedication and perseverance throughout the event. Thank you, VT Seva and Angels of Hope for this wonderful opportunity. Advithi Kothapalli: The walkathon was a really nice experience benefitting both me and the people in my team. I had the opportunity to reach out to people and raise money, while also promoting a healthy lifestyle. The walkathon was a huge source of motivation to walk every day, and I hope to do it again.   Aditi Jethri Kompally: I have been a team leader for more than 3 years, and I am glad to say that this walkathon exceeds my expectations every time. Being a team leader has been incredibly rewarding as I can converse with others and inform them about VTSEVA's goal and more. One of the most profound aspects is meeting families that have been impacted by cancer and how much they have persevered through different hardships. Thank you for giving me this wonderful memory. Akul Madhamshetty: As a first-time team leader, I felt a mix of nerves and excitement. But seeing over 200 walkers come together, united in their support for families fighting cancer, melted those nerves away. It wasn't just about raising funds; it was a vibrant community event, encouraging healthy habits and filling the air with hope. Leading my team and witnessing the positive impact firsthand left me feeling motivated and eager to contribute even more next year! Anuraag Balaji: The walkathon was a great experience as I had the opportunity to support a great cause while simultaneously improving my health in a friendly walking competition! Overall I'm glad to be part of such a fundraiser! Cordelia Laframboise: My experience with the Walkathon for Cancer was great! It was clear that everything was well-planned and organized. Not as many people as the previous walkathon showed up, but there was still a great amount of people. I definitely think that everyone was well hydrated and there were a lot of snacks because many people volunteered to bring snacks and drinks, which was amazing. I do wish more people from my school and other schools showed up so maybe like in the future we could change the date so it doesn’t interfere with SAT/ACT and everything like that. But other than that, I think it was fantastic and my family had a great time going.: Arya Cheemalamari: This is my fourth year participating as a team lead on the annual walkathon, and I have a couple of words to impart. How do we promote the community's health and fight for a great cause?  One of the many reasons that I love the walkathon is because of how versatile and effective the project is. The competitive environment incentivizes participants to walk and improve their health, and the money raised financially supports cancer patients who need and deserve it. We support these patients through another amazing non-profit, Angels Of Hope. Walking is an everyday part of life that I thoroughly enjoy, and to be able to add to this with the perk of helping cancer families adds to the experience. I am grateful for the impact I can have through VTSeva and hope to partake in this amazing experience next year. Teja Cheemalamari: This is my fourth year participating as a team lead in the annual hybrid walkathon. I believe supporting cancer patients on behalf of Angels of Hope is such a noble cause. Using the walkathon as a channel to provide care has allowed me to better myself while serving the public. Serving the society has always made me feel like a better version of myself. I believe the competition for fitness is also a great way to promote the health of our generation as a whole. Every step I take feels a step closer to a cancer-free and healthier society. It makes me feel very fulfilled and grateful to know that my actions are directly funneled to support those who need it. I really enjoyed participating in the Walkathon over the years and watching it grow. Thank you, VT Seva. Shruthi Adduri: This year was my first year as a team lead even though I have been a part of the walkathon for a while and it was nice to see another side to it. I am grateful that we impacted so many people by raising money for Angels of Hope. It was fun to walk with my family throughout the month and with my friends at the final event at the park! Shreya Shetty: This was my first year participating in the Walkathon. It was truly an empowering experience for me as I got to see how my work recruiting team members helped those impacted by cancer. It is truly a very burdening disease with many horrible impacts and I am grateful to have been part of an effort to reduce that burden. Shruthika Pallapothu: This is a wonderful initiative VT Seva took on to fundraise for Angels Of Hope. I feel very fortunate to take part in this, seeing the impact of the walkathon and knowing that the money is provided to families affected by cancer. I hope to join the walkathon again next year too and inspire others just like how it inspired me! Yathi Shekar Debbata: I was glad that I could join the walkathon not only I could walk for my health, but I could for a cause. Shalini Srinivas: I am delighted I had the opportunity to participate in the partnership between VT Seva and the Walkathon for Angels of Hope. No one can understand the hardship patients and their families have to go through other than themselves. I am glad I was able to help with the struggles that cancer and other illnesses can create. Not only did this event positively affect the patients, but it also helped those who participated in this event to stay more active and fit. Through this event, I was able to find the motivation to exercise, and so did my team members. I’m so grateful to have been part of this wonderful event.   VT Seva Detroit youths are eagerly waiting for 5th Annual Walkathon!!! Blog Written By: Priya Jaisankar Blog Published By: Nandini Cheemalamarri

We are delighted to have you join us for this journey of inner calm and well-being. To ensure a smooth and beneficial experience for everyone, please review and follow the guidelines below. General Guidelines 1. Punctuality: • Please join the session at least 5 minutes early to settle in and test your audio/video setup. • Sessions will start promptly, and late entries may not be admitted preserving the meditative environment. 2. Quiet Environment: • Choose a quiet, distraction-free space. • Inform household members to minimize disturbances during the session. 3. Tech Setup: • Use a stable internet connection. • Keep your camera on (if possible) so the instructor can guide posture and alignment. • Mute your microphone unless instructed otherwise. Pranayama • Practice on an empty stomach or at least 3 hours after a meal. • Sit in a comfortable position with your spine upright. • If you feel dizzy or uncomfortable at any point, return to normal breathing and inform the instructor via chat. Meditation • Keep your phone on silent. • Sit in a comfortable, alert posture. • Avoid fidgeting to maintain group energy and focus. Yoga Nidra • Lie down on a yoga mat or firm surface. • Use a thin pillow under the head. Health & Safety • If you have any pre-existing medical conditions (e.g., asthma, high blood pressure, mental health concerns), please consult your doctor before participating. • Inform the instructor of any conditions beforehand. • Participation is voluntary and at your own discretion. Respect & Etiquette • Maintain a respectful and positive attitude during the session. • Refrain from recording the session unless explicit permission is granted. • Feedback is welcome after the session.

India, often referred to as the "blind capital of the world”, is home to more than 8 million visually impaired individuals - nearly 20% of the world’s blind population. India also has the highest number of blind children globally, yet fewer than 1 in 10 have access to formal education.  While technological advances have transformed the lives of thousands, millions of visually impaired students remain excluded from education and employment, not due to lack of ambition or ability, but because of poverty and inaccessibility.  Despite these barriers, many visually impaired students are achieving the extraordinary. They crack competitive entrance exams and earn coveted spots in prestigious institutions like IIMs, IITs, IISc, FMS, and TISS - places many sighted students dream of. Yet, the real challenge begins after admission.  The cost of access (including tuition, hostel fees, mess charges, assistive devices, and digital resources) often exceeds the family’s annual income. For countless talented visually impaired students, financial hardship becomes the reason they’re forced to give up their academic aspirations.  To make matters worse, core learning materials are still largely unavailable in accessible formats. Without the necessary devices or adapted textbooks, these students are left struggling - excluded from the very classrooms they worked so hard to enter. What We’re Doing: A 360° Empowerment Model We’re addressing every layer of inequality these students face - financial, technological, and academic.   Educational Scholarships In collaboration with Saksham India, we are proud to launch the first-of-its-kind scholarship initiative for the underprivileged and visually impaired students in India. We sponsor up to ₹2 lakh per year per student for tuition, hostel, and mess fees, removing the most immediate obstacle to higher education. The scholarship is primarily funded by our youth through the Music4Cause initiative, where music lessons are offered and 100% of the proceeds are donated to support the scholarship. Pay-It-Forward Model Students who receive the scholarship commit to sponsoring one more visually impaired student once they graduate and begin earning. This creates a self-sustaining ecosystem of opportunity and empowerment. Collaborative Backbone We partner with visionary organizations like Saksham and prominent advocates for the visually impaired to ensure transparency, operational efficiency, and strong mentorship support.   Assistive Technology Devices Specially configured laptops and tablets, equipped with: Screen readers and refreshable Braille support Voice recognition and magnification tools Accessible navigation platforms These devices are customized to each student’s unique needs and institution requirements.   Accessible Digital Textbooks Through our volunteer-led efforts, we convert school, college, and competitive exam textbooks into accessible formats such as E-PUB3 (DAISY-compliant)     Progress So Far We received 3 applications and approved 2 scholarships (IIM Trichy and IIT Mumbai), and the 3rd one is under review. 400+ Laptops and assistive tools provided across multiple states in India 140,000+ textbook pages converted into accessible formats   These numbers represent real lives changed - students who are now one step closer to achieving their dreams.   How You Can Help Sponsoring a student ·       Full-year - ₹2 lakh (~$2,400 USD) ·       Semester - ₹1 lakh (~$1,200 USD)   Sponsoring a device ·       Laptop ($500) ·       Tablet ($200) ·       Smartphone with Bluetooth keyboard ($110 )   Volunteering Help us convert textbooks into accessible formats, organize outreach events, or support social media advocacy.   Spreading the Word Know someone who might want to help? Share this initiative with your networks. Awareness is the first step to action.

Amidst this pandemic, 10 young youth board members from VT Seva raised more than 5,000 dollars together with hard work, passion, and persistence. 10 kids from VT Seva Detroit Youth Board, started an online fundraiser using GoFundMe.com –VT Seva is a non-profit volunteer organization which is mostly run with the help of the youth board. During these unprecedented times, they all knew that most people are helpless, the orders are to stay home, and stay put. They knew they had to do something for the frontliners who are risking their lives everyday. This idea was thought of by one of the youth board member Harish Jaisankar, who then readily shared his idea with the others. Together everyone agreed that this was the best way for them to help out was only possible by staying apart. As Livonia has the second highest number of COVID - 19 cases in Michigan they decided to support the St. Mary Mercy Hospital in Livonia, MI. The ten of them quickly began putting in efforts, spreading the word as much as they could, starting an online fundraiser, and making it their goal to make a difference. It started out fairly slow, just like any other large project does. But they kept persisting, and over the next couple of days they started to hit it off. They reached their first $1,000. Harish, Oviya, Saisha, Kaavya, Anagha, Amogh, Abhinav, Hrudya and Nikita are the ambitious 10 who made this possible. Over this journey, they pushed and pushed until they reached the peak of their mountain. The results were shocking. People who weren’t even reached out to, donated to the cause. They finally raised more than their goal of 5,000 dollars. Their goal was only achieved with the hard work put in by all of the youth board...even while they were stuck at home. They put in all of their effort to get people to donate, and raise their spirits. Posting all over social media, creating hashtags, sharing with friends, family, school clubs and many others. They put effort, and precious time to convince people to donate to this wonderful cause, and pass on the message. Together they were able to make a difference in this world, and help those around them to be safer and healthier. It was a small step, but a step in the right direction nevertheless. The kids who came up with this project had many things to say about it: “This experience has been great and it feels amazing to support those risking their lives to keep us safe. I’ve seen the stories about how hard it has been for the medical professionals and they deserve all the support they can get”—Harish Jaisankar. Youngest member of this team Oviya Jaisankar says: “This campaign expanded my horizons in reaching out to people and I’m proud of supporting the frontliners.” Saisha Srivatsan, another important part of the committee, explains her thoughts. “Every bit I do to help the community during this pandemic makes me feel really good. It feels amazing to be able to help during these times.” “Helping in raising money for the doctors and nurses gave me satisfaction and hope that this pandemic will end soon.”, exclaimed by Kaavya Naga Sri Karnati. “During this pandemic, any small effort will go a long way. It feels amazing to help in the situation it was most needed, yet again another member.”Anagha Jammalamadaka. “I’m very grateful to the kind people who donated to our campaign and to the doctors who are fighting against COVID-19.” - Abhinav Suresh. Sohan Madishetty describes his thoughts, “I was happy to be a part of this fundraiser. It was a difficult challenge but I am happy that we succeeded.” “It was a great opportunity and it was better knowing that I could be helpful at a time when people need it.” reflected by Nikita Talwar. Amogh Pisipati said “We were able to raise thousands of dollars for the frontliners. I would do this again if I was given the opportunity.” Last but not least, “Glad to be part of this campaign.” reflected Hrudya Kishore. This money will be used to buy more and better supplies such as no touch thermometers, which will further prevent the spread of the virus, and keep everyone safer. These youths were also able to reach out to a local news channel —WXYZ-TV news—who later interviewed them, and talked about what they were doing for their community. Soon after the interview went live, the numbers immediately showed a difference, many new people in the area donated to the cause. This interview brought the amount one large step closer to the goal. The publicity from this interview would definitely be one of the predominant things that brought them a much closer to their goal. It also shows that so far the direction they were moving towards was affirmatively moving in the right direction. In addition to admiring the individuals, they’ve inspired Rotary Interact Club of Livonia Churchill high school to donate a huge chunk of money. This campaign did bring the community together for a good cause. When they had finally reached their goal they then were asked by MI India for an interview to talk about everything they had done to accomplish their goal. By giving this interview, it gave each and every one of them an opportunity to really look back how much work they put in to achieve their goal. MI India Interview link: https://www.miindia.com/blog/details/Youth-Warriors-from-VT-Seva-fight-against-COVID-19-1025 St. Mary Mercy was so inspired about this campaign and wanted to reach out to these kids to thank them and answer any questions they had, since the high schoolers were having AP exams, to accommodate their schedule, St. Mary Mercy representatives scheduled an interview on the weekend and expressed their gratitude to these kids and answered all the healthcare related questions around COVID-19 that these kids asked. Kids got very helpful insights from the source directly through this interview. With the money raised, it helped St. Mary Mercy to purchase • 600 N-95 Masks • 550 Face Shields • 2 Air - Purifying Respirators • 1 UV Decontomination chamber for PPEs To think about it, 10 kids, 1 idea, 1 month, and 5,000 dollars that were raised, this small-time project definitely went farther than anything anyone could’ve imagined. It sounds almost impossible to reach at first, but together they did it. As everyone knows, the fruit of hard work, and patience, is always the sweetest. These 10 youths put together a nice thank you video to convey their appreciation to all of the donors for this campaign GoFundMe Fundraiser link: https://gf.me/u/x3umtyhttps://gf.me/u/x3umty Written By: Nikitha Talwar & Saisha Srivatsan Video: Harish Jaisankar

Every great movement starts with a voice. At VT Seva’s 8th Annual Public Speaking Event, young speakers step onto the stage to amplify their voices, share impactful stories, and advocate for change. This event is more than just a competition—it’s a celebration of expression, leadership, empowerment, and service. For eight consecutive years, VT Seva has provided a stage where young minds articulate their ideas, develop confidence, and engage with pressing global and social issues. The competition is designed to nurture public speaking skills while fostering awareness about important causes. Through compelling speeches, participants are refining their oratory abilities and embracing their role as changemakers. What sets this event apart is its deep connection to service. Every speech delivered reflects a commitment to making a difference. This aligns perfectly with VT Seva’s overarching goal—to inspire individuals to take action, contribute to society, and use their skills to uplift others. It’s not just about speaking; it’s about inspiring real change. Our event began with a welcome from Mr. Raju Bhramandabheri, founder of Speaking Masters LLC. Next, Mr. Suresh Raju introduced VT Seva and our organization’s mission to all those in attendance. VT Seva values education and youth empowerment as two of our key pillars, and our Public Speaking Event is a continuous reflection of VT Seva Detroit’s commitment to the youth of our community. Our amazing judges for this event were introduced by Mrs. Priya Jaisankar and Mrs. Archita Kramadhati. Recognition and Beyond VT Seva Detroit extends its deepest gratitude to Mr. Raju Bhramadabheri  for his unwavering support and dedication to the organization’s mission. His contributions have played a crucial role in the success of VT Seva’s Public Speaking event, empowering young minds, and fostering leadership. VT Seva Detroit is honored to have the continued support of Mr. Raju Bhramadabheri, founder of Speaking Masters LLC, and we sincerely appreciate his efforts in helping us amplify our vision of service, education, and empowerment. We would like to extend our thanks to our judges,   Ms. Laura Green, Ms. Stacey Hearn, Mr. Orin M. Lewis, and Ms. Karla Guillen. Ms. Laura Green has 21 years of experience in education field and understands that public speaking is not just a skill; it’s a gateway to confidence, leadership, and future success. Her commitment to empowering students ensures they find their voice and use it to inspire change. Ms. Green helped our students convey their points and use their voice to express themselves and the views they stand for. Ms. Stacey Hearn’s path from machinist to a devoted school secretary reflects her love for creating a safe and supportive student environment. Her years of service, both as a volunteer and as a guiding presence in the school, have made her a pillar of warmth and encouragement for students. Her ability to work with students and support their growth made her an excellent judge for our public speaking event. Mr. Orin M. Lewis is a Level 2 Director at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan with 24 years of industry experience. He is a national First Call Resolution and multi-year Customer Satisfaction award-winning leader with 25+ years of transformational leadership expertise. Mr. Lewis has a bachelor’s degree in Business Management, a black-belt certification in the Lean Six Sigma Methodology, and is a Certified Master Life Coach. He is a graduate of the Americas Health Insurance Plans Minority Management Development Fellowship and a board member of Fresh Perspectives Seminars, a non-profit organization focused on assisting under-served youths with acquiring college funding. His wealth of leadership experience and oratory ability provided a unique perspective to all our participants. Ms. Karla Guillen is a teacher at Holly High School and an ESL tutor at Graham Elementary School for Avondale Schools. She is a graduate of Eastern Michigan University with a degree in Spanish Language Teaching. Her experience with language and working with students made her an ideal choice to judge this competition and help our participants learn and grow. Once our competition began, students took to the microphone and delivered their compelling and eloquent speeches. While our winners receive trophies and accolades, every participant walks away with invaluable experience, mentorship, and a stronger voice. Many of our past participants have gone on to become influential and passionate speakers, student leaders, and strong advocates in their communities. Please join us in celebrating all of our event winners! While winners receive trophies and accolades, every participant walks away with something invaluable—experience, mentorship, and a stronger voice. Many past participants have gone on to become influential speakers, student leaders, and passionate advocates in their communities. Our top 8 results from the Third to Fifth grade prepared speech competition: 1. Arnav Acharya  (Trophy and Certificate)  2. Vihaan Pawar  (Trophy and Certificate)  3.  Srivibha Dingari   (Trophy and Certificate)  4. Advika Batchu (Medal and Certficate) 5. Tarini Brahmandhabheri (Medal and Certificate)  6. Renesh Sreenath (Medal and Certificate)  7. Anika Dacharaju (Medal and Certificate)  8. Shreyanshi Singh (Medal and Certificate) Our top 8 results from the Sixth to Eighth grade extemporaneous speech competition: 1. Loukya Annem  (Trophy and Certificate)  2. Saanvi Rameswarapu  (Trophy and Certificate)  3. Saanvisri Karnakanti (Trophy and Certificate)  4. Eshan Bulusu  (Medal and Certficate) 5. Adhip Pisapati  (Medal and Certficate) 6. Aishwarya Pasuparthi  (Medal and Certficate) 7. Aaryan V Gajawada  (Medal and Certficate) 8. Sabreesh Velladurai  (Medal and Certficate) Thank you! We are deeply grateful to all youth and adult volunteers who made our 8th Annual Public Speaking Competition  a resounding success! With all of your support through registrations, donations and pledges were were able to raise funds to support 7 students education for one whole year. From setting up the venue to the final cleanup, your dedication and teamwork were the backbone of this event. Thank you for bringing water, coffee, tea, and snacks to keep everyone refreshed and energized throughout the day. A special shoutout to Mama Eatz  for their delicious biryani, adding an extra flavor of joy to the event! Click here for more pictures Blog Written By: Priya Jaisankar

VT SEVA Pickle Ball Tournament will be conducted on Saturday July 12th 2025 from 3 PM to 8 PM CST at LEGACY HOOPS, HOPKINS, MN. A review of Pickleball rules are as follows: PLAYERS AND ROSTERS • Each team consists of 2 players. o Men's - Two male players required o Women's - Two female players required o Mixed - One male and one female player required • If, due to injuries, a player or doubles partner can no longer participate, the injured player and team will forfeit the game. It is up to the Supervisor to make any final decisions, if need be. • Roster is limited to two (2) for doubles and mixed doubles. COURT • The doubles badminton court will be used for doubles play. • The non-volley zone extends 7ft from the net on either side of the court. • Lines are considered part of the area for which they enclose. During service, the baseline of the non-volley zone is considered part of the non-volley zone and will result in a fault if contacted. • A court diagram is included at the end of this document START OF PLAY • Before starting the game, the participants toss a coin with the winner choosing:(a) to serve first/to receive first, or (b) the side. • The loser of the toss shall have a choice of the remaining alternatives. The Serve • The serve must be made underhand. • Paddle contact with the ball must be below the server’s waist (navel level). • The serve is initiated with at least one foot behind the baseline; neither foot may contact the baseline or court until after the ball is struck. • The serve is made diagonally crosscourt and must land within the confines of the opposite diagonal court. • Only one serve attempt is allowed, except in the event of a let (the ball touches the net on the serve and lands on the proper service court; let serves are replayed). SCORING • Points are scored only by the serving team. • The first team to reach 11 points wins the game. There is no win by 2 rule in ecect. Service Sequence • At the beginning of each new game only one partner on the serving team has the opportunity to serve before faulting, after which the service passes to the receiving team. • Both players on the serving doubles team have the opportunity to serve and score points until they commit a fault • The first serve of each side-out is made from the right/even court. • If a point is scored, the server switches sides and the server initiates the next serve from the left/odd court. • As subsequent points are scored, the server continues switching back and forth until a fault is committed, and the first server loses the serve. • When the first server loses the serve the partner then serves from their correct side of the court (except for the first service sequence of the game*). • The second server continues serving until his team commits a fault and loses the serve to the opposing team. • Once the service goes to the opposition (at side out), the first serve is from the right/even court and both players on that team have the opportunity to serve and score points until their team commits two faults. Two-Bounce Rule • When the ball is served, the receiving team must let it bounce before returning, and then the serving team must let it bounce before returning, thus two bounces. • After the ball has bounced once in each team’s court, both teams may either volley the ball (hit the ball before it bounces) or play it oc a bounce (ground stroke). • The two-bounce rule eliminates the serve and volley advantage and extends rallies. Non-Volley Zone • The non-volley zone is the court area within 7 feet on both sides of the net. • Volleying is prohibited within the non-volley zone. This rule prevents players from executing smashes from a position within the zone. • It is a fault if, when volleying a ball, the player steps on the non-volley zone, including the line and/or when the player’s momentum causes them or anything they are wearing or carrying to touch the non-volley zone including the associated lines • It is a fault if, after volleying, a player is carried by momentum into or touches the non-volley zone, even if the volleyed ball is declared dead before this happens. • A player may legally be in the non-volley zone any time other than when volleying a ball. • The non-volley zone is commonly referred to as “the kitchen.” Line Calls • A ball contacting any line, except the non-volley zone line on a serve, is considered “in.” • A serve contacting the non-volley zone line is short and a fault. Faults • A fault is any action that stops play because of a rule violation. • A fault by the receiving team results in a point for the serving team. • A fault by the serving team results in the server’s loss of serve or side out How to play Pickleball: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fTvPYdKZqO0 Tournament • Based on the number of registrations, tournament will be either Double Elimination or Round Robin • In case of Double Elimination, Participants are eliminated after two losses, ocering a second chance and reducing the impact of a single bad match o Teams move to a losers' bracket after their first loss o Teams compete against other teams in the losers' bracket o Teams are eliminated after their second loss • The VT Seva Supervisors will have the final decision on all discrepancies. UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT • Jerseys are not required for Pickleball. • All players must wear non-marking court shoes. Cleats of any kind and open-heel and/or -toe shoes are prohibited. • Medical alert jewelry is allowed to be worn, but it must be taped down with the medical alert tag exposed. • If a participant is bleeding or has blood on their jersey they will be removed from the game until the bleeding is under control. Prior to any participants re-entering a game the bleeding must be stopped, cleaned and any cuts or lacerations must becovered. Participants will not be allowed to participate in any activity until the above conditions are met. VT Seva assumes no responsibility for injuries; however basic, first aid will be available Pickleball is a self-ociciated sport.

"Giving is not just about making a donation. It is about making a difference." — Kathy Calvin This powerful quote resonates deeply with our mission. Through compassion and generous contributions, we can transform the lives of visually challenged and tribal children. In turn, the incredible students of Nethra Vidyalaya and Jeeyar Gurukulam continue to inspire us with their success stories. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the kind-hearted donors and volunteers who have supported this noble cause throughout the year. RAAS-2024: A Celebration of Service and Community- With the blessings of HH Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji, VT Seva Detroit successfully hosted its 9th Annual Cultural Event, RAAS-2024, on November 16, 2024, t o honor the dedication of our volunteers and donors. It is an evening of celebration, music, dance, games, and gratitude. This annual celebration marks the culmination of a year filled with impactful fundraising efforts and dedicated community service. RAAS-2024 was a visual and sensory delight , featuring mesmerizing performances from local talent and a grand dinner. As always, it was a night to remember for the entire VT Seva Detroit family. Event Highlights: ✅ Raised funds to support the education of 388 visually challenged and tribal students ✅ Feeding Hope Program provided 44 days of meals to Nethra school students in honor of their loved ones, celebrating birthdays, wedding anniversaries, and cherished memories. ✅ Attendance of 450+ guests ✅ A delicious dinner complemented by captivating entertainment ✅ Engaging Game Night and an Electrifying Open-Floor Dance ✅ Special Thanks to donors, volunteers, participants, sponsors, choreographers, and supporters for making this event a resounding success! The event commenced at 5:00 PM , with a warm welcome by Mr. Srinath, Ms. Priya, and Ms. Vanitha , followed by the Deepa Prajwalana ceremony led by esteemed guests and board members Mr. Kishen, Ms. Sunitha, Mr. Sudheer, Mr. Srinath, Ms. Vanitha, Ms. Priya, and Mr. Suresh. The evening continued with: 🎵 Prayers by Prajna students 🇺🇸 The American National Anthem sung by Shivani 🇮🇳 The Indian National Anthem sung by JET Michigan Prajna students The event showcased the incredible efforts of our young leaders. Mr. Arvind, our EMCEE coordinator, mentored the youth EMCEE team, including Sai Sri Ram, Shreya, Aditi, Kaustubh, and Shruthi , who enthusiastically led the program. They presented inspiring sessions on the Pillars of VT Seva Detroit : • Youth Empowerment (Sai Sri Ram) • Nethra Pillar (Shreya) • Healthcare Initiatives (Aditi) • Disaster Recovery Efforts (Kaustubh) • Tribal Community Support (Shruthi) "Great things happen when great minds and kind hearts come together." Special Moments of Generosity We are profoundly grateful to Mr. Kishen Kavikondala, Mrs. Sunitha Kavikondala, and their daughter, Ms. Maya Kavikondala, for their presence and generous sponsorship of RAAS 2024. Through their philanthropic support, we are able to advance the education of 20 visually challenged students. The Kavikondala family’s compassion and commitment to uplifting and empowering young minds is deeply inspiring. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Sunny Reddy for his generosity. He is a successful entrepreneur, philanthropist, and Governor of the Wayne State University School Board. His presence made the event even more special. Special Thanks to Ms. Shadora Ford, Destined for Greatness - Ford Wellness Center, for her presence. Collaborating with them to pursue our shared mission is an honor, and we look forward to continuing this impactful partnership. Celebrating Excellence – Awards & Recognition A total of 28 volunteers  received the prestigious  PVSA and JEEYAR Awards in recognition of their dedication: 🥇 13 Gold PVSA Awards 🥈 4 Silver PVSA Awards 🥉 9 Bronze PVSA Awards 🏅 1 Jeeyar Gold Award 🏅 1 Jeeyar Bronze Award Awards Summary 🥇 Gold Award Winners Tian Han (Pelon) Lin Akshith Ashwanth Amogh Mavatoor Jishnu Kandalam Kushal Durga Oviya Jaisankar Sai Sahasra Namuduri Shraya Ved Shruthi Chakrika Adduri Varshan Muhinthan Nikhil Aerabati Shreya Srivatsan 🥈 Silver Award Winners Varnika Jakka Rishi Chowdhury Sreenika Perumalla Saichakrika Yadali 🥉 Bronze Award Winners Anvika Perumalla Hajanthan Muhinthan Sathvik Tirumala Kanduri Shreya Shetty Saisha Srivatsan Rakshan D Samynathan Adult Honorees Nandini Cheemalamarri (Gold) Asha Puranam (Silver) Durga Nalini Sangita (Bronze) 🏆 Jeeyar Award Recipients Sai Sri Ram Karnati (Silver) Kaustubh Dingari (Bronze) Youth Empowerment & Leadership in Action The VT Seva Detroit Youth Board (YB) Director , Ms. Durga Nalini Sangita, highlighted the 2024 contributions: 🌟 1000+ volunteer hours across 23 activities 🌟 20 youth-led events Ms. Priya Jaisankar, VT Seva Jt. Secretary, Communications and VT Seva Detroit YB Outreach Coordinator , detailed the achievements of the Outreach Project and Walkathon . She highlighted the work of three VT Seva High School Clubs , and a new club established in 2024,  and acknowledged the dedication of youth volunteers and high school club teams. Expanding High School Engagement This year, VT Seva Detroit proudly welcomed its newest school club at Washtenaw International High School (WIHI) , joining our three existing clubs at Troy IAE, Troy High School, and North Farmington High School. 🚀 2024 Achievements of the High School Clubs ✔ 43+ community service events ✔ Enhancing leadership skills ✔ Fostering empathy and service-oriented mindsets ✔ Strengthening teamwork and collaboration These clubs exemplify the power of youth leadership  in driving meaningful change, embodying VT Seva’s mission. Milestone Fundraising Events 📢 4th Annual Youth-Led Walkathon • Raised $7000  to support families impacted by cancer 📢 5th Annual Youth-Led Outreach Project • Successfully raised $26,500 • Empowered 72+ visually challenged students  with quality education A Year of Impact and Gratitude Ms. Vanitha Gopalan, VT Seva Jt. Secretary, special programs and VT Seva Detroit Volunteer Coordinator highlighted the incredible community service projects completed in 2024 and extended heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers and donors for their unwavering support. 🚀 2024 Highlights of Our Community Impact 🌟 🥫 Food Drive Success Hosted a food drive and fundraiser at Kroger for the Lighthouse Food Pantry — collected over 3,000 pounds of food  and raised $600+  to fight food insecurity. 🍽️ Feeding Families in Need Helped pack and distribute more than 45,000 pounds of food , reaching over 3,000 families  with essential nourishment. 🧼 Global Aid Through Hygiene & Medical Kits Assembled over 2,000 medical equipment and hygiene kits  for distribution in developing countries , supporting health and wellness abroad. 🌪️ Disaster Relief Across the U.S. Delivered crucial supplies and services to five U.S. states  affected by natural disasters, offering hope in times of crisis. 🏙️ Local Community Service in Metro Detroit Completed 22+ service projects , partnering with local organizations to make a real difference, with 18 youth stepping up as leaders  in these initiatives. 👮 Honoring Our Local Heroes Organized a heartfelt Police Appreciation Lunch  for Novi city police officers , showing gratitude for their service. ❤️ Empowering Youth with Life Skills Hosted CPR training and certification courses  for young community members, equipping them with life-saving skills. 🌍 Environmental Awareness Campaigns Led "Go Green: Say No to Plastic Bags"  workshops to inspire sustainable habits and environmental responsibility. 🎓 Supporting Education for the Visually Challenged Raised funds to support the education of 26 visually impaired children in India  through public speaking events, sports tournaments , dance fitness sessions , and community fundraisers . 🍽️ 44 Days of Giving: Meals with Meaning through Feeding Hope Program. In a beautiful gesture of love and remembrance, Detroit donors provided 44 days of meals  to Nethra students . These contributions were made to celebrate birthdays, wedding anniversaries , and in memory of loved ones , turning personal milestones into acts of kindness that nourished young lives. ❤️ The Director of VT Seva Detroit, Mr. Srinath Babu Karnati, reflected on the impact created by volunteers and donors in 2024, emphasizing their contribution to both VT Seva and the local community. In 2024, VT Seva Detroit organized over 95 events in 52 weeks, making it a leading branch nationwide. He introduced Suresh Rajan, Nandini Cheemalamarri, Anand Ranganathan, and Jaisankar Kannan for taking up new roles in 2025 after a 5-year tenure in their current roles. Suresh Rajan(Present VtSeva Detroit Sports coordinator) as Director. Nandini Cheemalamarri(Present VTSeva Detroit Communications Director) as Treasurer. Anand Renganathan(Present VTSeva Detroit Treasure) as Secretary Jaisankar Kannan as New Jt. Treasurer. Adding to the evening’s recognition, VT Seva VP, Mr. Sudheer Koppu, addressed the audience with his appreciation. The VT Seva Detroit Sports Coordinator, Mr. Suresh Rajan , shared insights on various sports activities throughout the year and expressed gratitude to all participants. Cultural Extravaganza – A Night to Remember! RAAS 2024 was an electrifying night with exceptional performances featuring a mix of classical, Bollywood fusion, and debut acts. This year’s lineup included 13 cultural performances by professional teams and talented local artists. The event witnessed exciting first-time performances from: 🎶 Breathe Music Academy 🎭 N Studio 💃 Mission Dance Academy 👯‍♀️ The Nannur Sisters For the first time in RAAS history , Mission Dance Center presented a ballet performance, adding a Western touch to the event. Goosebump-Worthy Performances 👏 A special thanks to all the performers: 1. Veena Instrumental – (Choreographed by Bhargavi) 2. SwarAlaapana School of Dance – (Choreographed by Kalyani) 3. Usha's Kuchipudi Dance Academy – Semi-Classical Fusion (Choreographed by Usha) 4. Rhythm Arts Dance Academy – (Choreographed by Veena) 5. Breathe Music Academy – Flute/Vocal Medley (Choreographed by Sateesh) 6. Nrithyalaya School of Bharatanatyam – Bollywood Dance (Choreographed by Vandana) 7. Smruthi's Dancing Mist – Bollywood Fusion (Choreographed by Smruthi) 8. Mission Dance Center – “Piece of Me” (Choreographed by Abbeigh) 9 . RVD Bhangra – (Choreographed by Tarun Kaur, Jagga Sohal, Sunny Aheer) 10. Manzat Special – Featuring Youth Volunteer Abhinav & Team (University of Michigan Students) 11. N Studio (Bollywood) – (Choreographed by Nandhini) 12. Vaishnavi – Singing 13. Arpitha – Dance Ms. Keerthi Dingari conducted games to engage the audience. A Feast and Dance to Conclude the Night No event is complete without delicious food and energetic dancing! After a fulfilling dinner, the night ended on a high note with an open-floor Dance—special thanks to our local restaurants for sponsoring the mouthwatering food. Our dedicated volunteers worked tirelessly throughout the day, picking up, transporting, unloading, and setting up the food service to ensure every guest enjoyed a hot and satisfying meal. Kudos to everyone of them! A Symphony of Teamwork "No one can whistle a symphony. It takes a whole orchestra to play it." – H.E. Luccock 👏 Congratulations to the entire VT Seva Detroit team for making RAAS 2024 a phenomenal success! Area Adults Youth Set up (Unloading, Hall Decor, Kitchen Setup) Srinath K, Vanitha G, Suresh R, Sudheer K, Anand R, Pallavi P, Praveen K, Komathy M, Balamurugan, Lavanya K, Keerthysri D Sathvik Surapaneni, Kushi Kanumuri, Hajanthan Muhinthan, Komathy Muhinthan, Advithi Kothapalli, Jishnu Kandalam, Anoop Jagana, Akshith Ashwanth, Rana Nagoji, Sankeerth Enganti, Anirvin Ramanan, Swara Rege, Sahasra, Aanya Das DECOR Stage & Front Kanchana P, Akshay P, Pavani N Swara Rege, Sahasra Namuduri, Aanya Das Projector Setup Sudheer K, Santosh G   Sound Setup Srinivas R   Photography, Facebook Live Sreenivas C Arya Cheemalamarri, Teja Cheemalamarri & Santhosh Registration Desk Latha N, Anand R, Nandini C, Jaisankar K Avni Patel, Hajanthan Wristband Check-ins Praveen K Varshan, Kalki Volunteers Check-in Help Vanitha G Shraya Ved Donation Form Collection Kushi Kanumuri, Advithi Kothapalli SNACK Serving Shraya Ved, Sai Sahasra Namudiri, Amogh Mavatoor, Jishnu Kandalam Stage Assist (Mics & Other Tasks) Keerthi D, Architha P Oviya Jaisankar, Ananya Sankar, Neha Bollavaram, Swara Rege Media Presentation Priya J Harish Jaisankar, Kavya Karnati, Oviya Jaisankar Cultural Programs and Event Co-ordination Priya J Games Keerthi D   Food Supervisors Sudhakar K, Srivardhan D, Chandrasekhar, Praveen K   Crowd Supervisors Suresh R, Sreenivas C, Venkat P, Vanitha G   Food Pick-up Crew Suresh R, Vanitha G, Sreenivas C, Nandini C, Priya J, Jaisankar K, Sudhakar K, Sarath K, Prasad Rao, Prashanth K, Srilatha K, Praveen K Dinner Serving Crew Nandini C, Veena C, Vidya A, Komathy M, Neha V, Chandra K, Shobana A, Jisha P, Jyothi K, Mythili K, Pranitha P,  Amogh Mavatoor, Advithi Kothapalli, Jishnu Kandalam, Tarun Senthilkumar, Swara Rege, Kushi Kanumuri, Shraya Ved, Hajanthan Muhinthan, Varshan Muhinthan, Sai Sahasra Namudiri Dinner Area Backup Helpers Bala, Pavani N Mihir Inamdar, Siddharth Ram, Sahil Kunjur, Kalki Anand, Akshith Ashwanth, Rathneesh Cleanup All Core Volunteers, along with their families   Social Media Updates Nandini Cheemalamarri   This event wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication of our AMAZING, DEDICATED, and ENTHUSIASTIC volunteers . A heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed! Thanks to all event sponsors, donors, supporters, guests, and volunteers  who made this event possible. 🙏 A special thanks to Mr. Srinath & Mr. Sudheer  for their leadership and guidance. Explore More Memories from RAAS 2024! 📸 Photo Albums: 🔗 Album 1 🎥 Watch the RAAS 2024 Video Recordings: 🔗 Video 1 🔗 Video 2 🔗 Video 3 🔗 Video 4 🔗 Video 5 🔗 Video 6 📸 Photos compiled by: Teja and Arya Cheemalamarri (VT Seva Detroit YB members) Your support is our strength for continuing to serve the community. VT Seva Detroit continues to lead with compassion, empower through service, and inspire through action. Thank you to all our supporters for making 2024 a remarkable year! THANK YOU ALL! Blog written and Published by Nandini Cheemalamarri (VTSeva Detroit Communication Director)

Thanks to the unwavering support and generosity of our donors, we are thrilled to announce a truly remarkable academic achievement by the students of 𝐍𝐞𝐭𝐫𝐚 𝐕𝐢𝐝𝐲𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐚 𝐊. 𝐀𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐝 has made history by securing 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐑𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝟐𝐧𝐝 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐄𝐱𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐚 𝐩𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝟗𝟕𝟔 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝟏𝟎𝟎𝟎 𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐬 (𝟗𝟕.𝟔%)! His success is a shining example of how your support transforms potential into excellence. But the celebration doesn't end there... 𝟏𝟎𝟎% 𝐒𝐮𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐞 - Intermediate Second Year (2025) 𝟗𝟔% 𝐒𝐮𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐞 - Intermediate First Year 𝟏𝟎𝟎% 𝐏𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐞 - SSC (10th Class) at our 𝐍𝐞𝐭𝐫𝐚 𝐕𝐢𝐝𝐲𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐚 𝐁𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐡 𝐢𝐧 𝐕𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐣𝐚, 𝐕𝐢𝐳𝐚𝐠, with students achieving outstanding marks! These accomplishments are not just academic milestones — they are testaments to the life-changing impact of your contributions. - 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐦𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐛𝐲 𝐲𝐨𝐮.

🎉 VT Seva Atlanta Online Summer Camp 2025 🎉 June 1 – July 27, 2025 💫💫 Get ready for an exciting and meaningful summer! Starting June 1st, the VT Seva Atlanta Team is thrilled to launch Summer Camp 2025 - an enriching experience designed to empower youth, engage students, and support a noble cause. 🌟Our Mission: This year’s camp is built around three core goals: 1. Productive Engagement: Kids stay active and inspired with fun, educational courses all summer long. 2. Youth Empowerment: High school students take the lead as tutors, guided by experienced adult mentors. 3. Service with Purpose: All proceeds support the education of visually challenged students at Nethra Vidyalaya in India. ⭐️ Camp Highlights: Elementary Program (Grades K–5): • 9 classes/week for 8 weeks = 72 total sessions • Subjects: Math (2), ELA (2), Art, Robotics, Taekwondo, Dance, and Chess Middle & High School Program (Grades 6–12): • 7 classes/week for 8 weeks = 56 total sessions • Subjects: Advanced Robotics, 3D Art, App Building, Python, AI/STEM, Business Entrepreneurship, Web Design ✨🎖️ Why Join Us? In 2024, our camp was a tremendous success — over 50 passionate youth tutors led classes while developing valuable leadership and communication skills. Together, we raised significant funds to support visually challenged students. This year, we aim even higher! 📚😀We can’t wait to see the learning, growth, and joy your child will experience at VT Seva’s 2025 Online Summer Camp. 🙋‍♀️🙋‍♂️Questions? Please contact: • Mrs. Harsh Gulati (Camp Coordinator): 407-970-3799 • Dr. Madhu Nemani (VT Seva Atlanta Director): 404-819-8623 Thank you for supporting education, empowerment, and service! ✌️✌️✌️ *DISCLAIMER* By signing up for the VT Seva Summer Camp, I acknowledge and agree that VT Seva is not responsible for any injuries arising from the camp activities. I acknowledge that I am fully aware that VT Seva is not an educational organization. VT Seva is a non profit organization where youths participate in various volunteering activities. This summer camp is also a volunteering opportunity for our youths to help others. I also give permission to be photographed during online summer camp for use in printed materials, through the internet or through other media outlets. I acknowledge that I have read and understand the disclaimer.

VT Seva Detroit completed a total of 12 individual service activities from Jan to April 2022 that included Community services, Environmental services, Appreciation to the Police department, Police tours & Drive for Detroit Homeless Shelter. Oakland Food Pantry: January 29th Capuchin Soup Kitchen: February 26th Destined for Greatness: February 5, February 13 Arts & Scraps: January 3 - February 25 Mercado Food Bank: March 6 Zaman International: March 26 Drive for Detroit Rescue Mission Food Gatherers: April 9 Novi Police Appreciation Lunch & Station Tour: April 10 Earth Day Project: April 23 Oakland Food Pantry Volunteering Every year, more than 50 thousand people are fed 750 thousand pounds of food each year by the Oakland HOPE Food Pantry. They work daily to help package and distribute food for families in need. They help veterans, disaster survivors, hungry children, and seniors get the food they deserve. As a volunteer-run organization, they require help to package the food each week and our VT Seva Detroit’s volunteers stepped up to undertake this responsibility. Together, we helped package enough food to feed 60 families and children. The volunteers completed many tasks to help so that they could help more people in need: These are our wonderful volunteers who participated: Youth: Nikhil Aerabati, Rishi Adduri, Hiba Zyna, Kushal Durga, Hrudya Kishore, Yug Patel, Supraja Pattangi, Surya Takawale, Lalitaditya Akkaraju Adult: Zahara Begum, Giri Varadhan, Raghunath Aerabati, Anand Ranganathan, Vandana Durga, Ravinder Akkaraju, Vanitha Gopalan Checkout our FB posts for more details about this project: https://www.facebook.com/vtseva.detroit/posts/5525078580852459 YouTube video : https://youtu.be/eBe5cPnkUhQ Capuchin Soup Kitchen Volunteering The Capuchin Soup Kitchen is a kitchen in Detroit that feeds people and families that are going through a hardship. They have served millions of meals since they started. They do multiple things to end poverty, hunger, and homelessness. Our volunteers stepped up to help them in this fight against hunger and helped set up, cook, serve, and clean up the kitchens in their kitchen . Under the guidance of permanent volunteers at the kitchens, they helped feed multiple families and children: These are our wonderful volunteers who participated: Youth: Kushal Durga, Rishi Adduri, Sai Sahasra Namuduri, Veeksha Somula, Akshith Ashwanth Adult: Vandana Durga, Durga Sangita, Raghunathan Namuduri, Vanitha Gopalan Checkout our FB posts for more details about this project: https://www.facebook.com/vtseva.detroit/posts/5616618845031765 YouTube video: https://youtu.be/M4zZfdYfCRw Destined for Greatness Volunteering The Ford Wellness Center hosts the Destined for Greatness program for young women and girls through mentorship and help in bad situations. They have successfully helped over 5000 people. When we volunteered, we split up into 3 groups. 17 volunteers participated volunteering in each area where they needed help in sorting, assembling, cleaning. Shadora Ford who is the founder of Destined for Greatness was in awe seeing our great help and greatly appreciated all our volunteers’ efforts. We went there twice in February back-to-back and helped them. Each group took up one part of the gym area clean-up. One sorted toys and clothes, one cleaned up items from the storage room, and one set up the clothing areas. February 5th Youth that participated : Nikhil Aerabati; Varun Aerabati; Abhinav Suresh; Hiba Zyna; Sathvik Tirumala Kanduri; Hrudya Kishore; Veeksha Somula; Anvika Perumalla; Sravya Saranu; Jaden Laba; Anikait Pundhir; Akshith Ashwanth. Adults that participated: Zahara Begum; Srikanth Ramanathan; Suresh Rajan; Vandana Durga; Raghunath Aerabati; Asha Puranam; Vanitha Gopalan. February 13th Youth volunteers who participated : Hrudya Kishore; Surya Subramanian; Kushal Durga; Akshay Kumar; Sanjay Sundarapandiyan Srivatsa Thirunagari; Eesha chigullapally Govind Beemisetty; Sri Medha Beemisetty. Adult volunteers who participated : Parvathee Subramaniam; Sailatha Thukkaram; Anand Renganathan; Srinathbabu Karnati; Venkat chigullapally; Kiran Beemisetty; Suresh Rajan & Vanitha Gopalan. Checkout our FB posts for more details about this project: https://www.facebook.com/page/804058126287885/search/?q=destined%20for%20greatness Arts & Scraps Volunteering The Arts and Scraps Detroit organization is a non-profit that provides STEM related kits to children throughout Detroit. However, to assemble each kit, they need volunteers such as ourselves. Through multiple tasks such as defuzzing sock loops and cutting foam. Through our help, they were able to provide free STEM kits to children. 𝗦𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗶𝗲𝘀, 𝘀𝗼𝗰𝗸 𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗽𝘀, 𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘁 𝘀𝘁𝘂𝗯𝘀, 𝗳𝗮𝗯𝗿𝗶𝗰, 𝗯𝘂𝘁𝘁𝗼𝗻𝘀, 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗲 𝗶𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝗺𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗱𝗶𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗹𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗲𝘅𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘀𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗱𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗶𝗿 𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗠 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴. January 3 – January 16 Youth volunteers who participated : 𝗢𝘃𝗶𝘆𝗮 𝗝; 𝗦𝗮𝗶 𝗦𝗮𝗵𝗮𝘀𝗿𝗮; 𝗛𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗵 𝗝; 𝗛𝗶𝗯𝗮 𝗭; 𝗦𝗿𝗮𝘃𝘆𝗮 𝗦; 𝗬𝘂𝗴 𝗣; 𝗞𝗮𝗮𝘃𝘆𝗮 𝗞; 𝗦𝗮𝗶 𝗞; 𝗦𝗮𝗻𝗷𝗮𝘆 𝗦; 𝗔𝗸𝘀𝗵𝗮𝘆 𝗞; 𝗣𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗮𝘃 𝗠; 𝗔𝗯𝗶 𝗦𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗵𝘁𝗶 𝗥; 𝗩𝗮𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗶 𝗕; 𝗜𝘀𝗵 𝗣𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗹; 𝗔𝗱𝗶 𝗣𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗹; 𝗥𝗼𝗵𝗮𝗻 𝗣𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗹; 𝗦𝗮𝘁𝗵𝘃𝗶𝗸; 𝗦𝗶𝗱𝗱𝗵𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗵; 𝗔𝗯𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘃 𝗦; 𝗔𝗱𝗵𝘃𝗮𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗦 February 1 – February 25 Youth volunteers who participated : 𝗥𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗶 𝗔𝗱𝗱𝘂𝗿𝗶, 𝗦𝗵𝗿𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗶 𝗔𝗱𝗱𝘂𝗿𝗶, 𝗡𝗶𝗸𝗵𝗶𝗹 𝗔𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗯𝗮𝘁𝗶, 𝗩𝗮𝗿𝘂𝗻 𝗔𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗯𝗮𝘁𝗶, 𝗟𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗱𝗶𝘁𝘆𝗮 𝗮𝗸𝗸𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗷𝘂, 𝗦𝗮𝗶𝗮𝗯𝗵𝗶𝗿𝗮𝗺 𝗮𝗸𝗸𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗷𝘂, 𝗞𝗮𝗹𝗸𝗶 𝗔𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗱, 𝗔𝗸𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗹𝗮, 𝗞𝘂𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝘂𝗿𝗴𝗮, 𝗛𝗿𝘂𝗱𝘆𝗮 𝗞𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗿𝗲, 𝗦𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗸𝗮 𝗣𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗸𝗮𝗿𝗹𝗮, 𝗠𝗼𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗵 𝗣𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗸𝗮𝗿𝗹𝗮, 𝗗𝗵𝗮𝗻𝘆𝗮 𝗥𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗻𝘂𝗷𝗮𝗺, 𝗦𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗮 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗿𝘂𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗮𝗿𝗶 Group 2 Cutting foam project Youth who participated: 𝗥𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗶 𝗔𝗱𝗱𝘂𝗿𝗶, 𝗦𝗮𝗻𝗷𝗮𝘆 𝗦𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝘆𝗮𝗻, 𝗛𝗶𝗯𝗮 𝗭𝘆𝗻𝗮, 𝗞𝗮𝗹𝗸𝗶 𝗥𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗮 𝗔𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗿𝗮𝘆𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗻, 𝗔𝗯𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘃 𝗦𝘂𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗵, 𝗦𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗸𝗮 𝗣𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗸𝗮𝗿𝗹𝗮, 𝗦𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗮 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗿𝘂𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗮𝗿𝗶, 𝗔𝗯𝗶𝘀𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗵𝘁𝗶 𝗥𝗮𝗺, 𝗛𝗿𝘂𝗱𝘆𝗮 𝗞𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗿𝗲. Checkout our FB posts for more details about this project: https://www.facebook.com/page/804058126287885/search/?q=Arts%20%26%20Scraps YouTube Video of Arts & Scraps - Group1 and Group2 https://youtu.be/eaCfqaa934k Mercado Food Bank Gleaners Mercado Food Bank is a drive-through food store in Detroit where people can safely get access to healthy food. They have recently adapted their policy to drive-through instead of as a store, and needed volunteers to put the food into people’s cars. Our volunteers helped pack food, arrange items onto storage carts, re-arranged shelved items for easier access, loaded customers’ cars, cleaned the area, and helped restock the building for the next day. 𝗧𝗼𝗴𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝘄𝗲 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗻 𝟭𝟬,𝟬𝟬𝟬 𝗽𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗳𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝟴𝟴 𝗳𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗗𝗲𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗶𝘁 Youth who participated : Hrudya Kishore, Nikhil Aerabati, Vandana Durga, Kushal Durga, Eesha Chigullapally, Akshith Ashwanth. Anikait Pundhir, Rohan Patil, Soham Bhatta Adults who participated : Raghunath Aerabati, Vandana Durga, Venkat Chigullapally, Jisha Padmanabhan, Savitri Raman, Vanitha Gopalan Checkout our FB posts for more details about this project: https://www.facebook.com/vtseva.detroit/posts/pfbid0DtSzq1XcUUXkyRcFbBFxpgEaEvfB1hqSBoS4r1HtE7rhV3fFvCG31CGL17h3pEugl YouTube video: https://youtu.be/3zHpmzSAMXA Zaman International Zaman International is dedicated to ending poverty and unhealthy conditions. They provide basic supplies, both medical and edible. They also help the families through tutoring and support during hardships . When VT Seva volunteered there, we helped pack and store various medical necessities such as masks, gloves, wipes, hand sanitizers, first aid kits, etc. We also assembled boxes full of the necessities and arranged them for delivery . Overall, we were able to pack over 350 boxes for Zaman International, which could support numerous families. Youth who participated : Medhas Kollu, Eesha chigullapally, Pavan Nagaraj, Nikhil Aerabati, Abisrishti Ram, Srivatsa Thirunagari, Akshay Kumar, Sravya saranu, Anand Brijesh, Yana Panchal. Adults who participated : Vanitha Gopalan, Parvathee Subramaniam, Vani Chigullapally, Ram Ramanathan, Brijesh Gopal, Pavan Nagaraj, Radhika . Checkout our FB posts for more details about this project: https://www.facebook.com/vtseva.detroit/posts/pfbid0KzaqKbP7VJWQxQmtuuvzBawSCwfyYNedV7VhNJPAJKM88hpQNiCAbaiuv8S5WdFQl YouTube video: https://youtu.be/JKp5fBEKfSM Drive for Detroit Rescue Homeless Shelter with the help of Kroger Stores Solicitation. On March 20th, 2022, VT Seva Detroit completed a drive for Detroit Rescue Homeless Shelter with the help of Kroger Stores Solicitation. VT Seva Detroit team raised a total of $800 and collected around six big boxes of Baby care products and personal care & hygiene products for Men and Women with the help of generous customers who shopped at Kroger Canton Stores from 10 am to 4:30 pm. YouTube video: https://youtu.be/ZwN1yp_jq_U Checkout blog link at: https://www.vtsworld.org/post/vt-seva-detroit-drive-for-detroit-rescue-homeless-shelter Checkout our FB posts for more details about this project: https://www.facebook.com/vtseva.detroit/posts/pfbid036mbmpHMnN8AQCnhQiMDGqzAPUtNmDCLY2cYqMBusHj2pkGZY5NgVA14LVYHsqnhQl Food Gatherers Food Gatherers are a food bank in Washtenaw County providing food for the impoverished. They are the leading group in hunger management in this county . They not only provide support for individual families, but for schools and local universities too. They distributed 9 million pounds of food last year through the help of volunteers. VT Seva volunteered there and helped to sort food, arrange boxes, and pack more than 1700 pounds of food. Youth who participated: Kirupali Sathyanathan; Veena Karthik; Hrudya Kishore; Abisrishti Ram; Adhvaith Suresh ; Srivatsa Thirunagari, Nitya Sankar, Kushal Durga . Adults who participated: Aarthi Karthik; Vanitha Gopalan . Checkout our FB posts for more details about this project: https://www.facebook.com/vtseva.detroit/posts/pfbid0aBhbX6pUcKCF5xCyjVANhiNMT9PxLEW2xs9mNiLHyDMuBymrDkXSeZ99UN7M1Aiwl YouTube video: https://youtu.be/nyBxXT530nA Novi Police Department Tour & Appreciation Lunch Our volunteers had a great learning experience on April 10th attending the Novi Police Station tour. Novi Police Department Tour and Novi Police Appreciation Lunch VT Seva Detroit had a tour of the Novi Police Department, Novi, Michigan, for youth volunteers on April 10th, 2022, and also had the pleasure of hosting an Appreciation lunch for the Novi Police Department on May 8th, 2022 Checkout blog link at: https://www.vtsworld.org/post/vt-seva-detroit-novi-police-department-tour-and-novi-police-appreciation-lunch YouTube video: https://youtu.be/nHI3v_-AxSc Checkout our FB posts for more details about this project: https://www.facebook.com/vtseva.detroit/posts/pfbid0n9jQ7XSS5Xe2hFoPZjUrx1p1VfJUpaAucP7dEdkWjXXvmKuLTU9EpQzh5RnVgjnjl h ttps://www.facebook.com/vtseva.detroit/posts/pfbid0gSVp4qKzLNWaZ4peiHMWB1kptiST3q7GGEALcjEa5WxzTD4avZGYoHShYibcdyQUl Earth Day Project Farmington Hills, Michigan has a yearly “litter walk” where volunteers walk for 2-3 miles and clean up all roadside trash on the way. This year, the 9th year of the litter walk, VT Seva helped. We collected trash from the roads, ditches, fields, and nearby lawns. We split up into 2 groups so that we could maintain both sides of the road, and we learned a lot about the ecosystem and the importance of taking care of it. At the end, we had a total of 6 bags collected over 2 miles. Youth that participated: 𝗞𝘂𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝘂𝗿𝗴𝗮, 𝗛𝗿𝘂𝗱𝘆𝗮 𝗞𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗿𝗲, 𝗦𝗮𝗶 𝗞𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶, 𝗣𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗻 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗼𝗷𝗸𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗿, 𝗦𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗮 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗿𝘂𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗮𝗿𝗶, 𝗛𝗮𝗷𝗶 𝗠𝘂𝗵𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗻, 𝗩𝗮𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗻, 𝗔𝗱𝗶𝘁𝘆𝗮 𝗣𝗿𝗮𝘆𝗮𝗴𝗮𝗶. Adults that participated: 𝗦𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗯𝗮𝗯𝘂 𝗞𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶, 𝗩𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗻𝗮 𝗗𝘂𝗿𝗴𝗮, 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗼𝗷 𝗸𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗿, 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝘆𝗮 𝗣𝗿𝗮𝘆𝗮𝗴𝗮𝗶, 𝗩𝗮𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗵𝗮 𝗚𝗼𝗽𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗻. Checkout our FB posts for more details about this project: https://www.facebook.com/vtseva.detroit/posts/pfbid02wq52pnEkdJTG3twAWYcBkviqdeQqgXdfvFNT8gTVwpocWvUi665BopmButhhMedTl YouTube video: https://youtu.be/abrKnB_P8w0 Blog and the Video Created By: Akshay Kumar (Youth Board member) Blog Published By: Nandini Cheemalamarri (VTS Detroit Communications)

Our VT SEVA Detroit Youth Board kicked off the beginning of the 2024 volunteering season with the closing of the 1st quarter! Every project was a great initiative and a way to help out our community and gratefulness extends to all the youth and adult volunteers that devoted their time to such a noble cause! Here are the projects we have covered from January to March this quarter: Youth Board Projects: Dog Rescue Towel DriveGrocery Bag DriveCASS Community Cooking Event VTSeva Detroit Youth Board Teen Mental Wellness EventVTSeva Youth Board Coats and Socks Drive Open Door Food Ministry Volunteering EventBrilliant Detroit In-Person Volunteering Detroit Projects: Food Gatherers Packing Event DRAW Warehouse Capuchin Soup Kitchen World Medical Relief Center Clean Love Project FMSC Food Packing Event Food drive and fundraising for Lighthouse pantry with Kroger stores solicitation Destined For Greatness Ford Wellness Center Annual / FundRaiser Events: VT Seva Detroit 7th Annual Public Speaking Workshop VTS Club Events: Troy High and IAE- Boxing groceries for The Dre Project North Farmington HS VTS Club- Fleece and Thank You Troy High VTS Club- Book Drive for Making Spirits Bright Troy IA VTS Club- Sorting at Children Hospital Troy HIGH VTS Club- Grace Center of Hope Soup KitchenIAE VTS Math Kangaroo Competition VTS Troy High- Gleaners Fundraiser Video of Event Slides Youth Board Projects: Dog Rescue Towel Drive- 1/31/2024 Animals  offer numerous benefits to our well-being, including mental, physical, and social support. Unfortunately, not all animals receive the care they deserve. To address this issue, we've partnered with Last Day Dog Rescue to donate towels and essential items to aid their efforts in helping animals in need. 35 Youth Board members from 10 different cities collected 105 towels. 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 LEAD: Oviya JaiSankar 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀:  Aanya Das, Abisrishti Ram,  Aditya Sankar, Akshitha Mylavarapu, Akshith Ashwant, Ananya Sankar, Anish Jaganna, Anoop  Sharva Jaganna, Avni Patel, Cordelia Laframboise, Hajanthan Muhinthan, Jenna Najor, Jishnu Kandalam, Joseph Najor, Kushal Durga, Mohammed Hussain, Nidhi Rao, Nikhil Aerabati,  Oviya Jaisankar, Rachana Raghunathan, Rishi Adduri, Rishi Chowdhry, Saicharan, Sai Sahasra, Sai Sri Ram, Samhith Eganti, Shraya Ved, Shruthi Adduri, Swara Rege, Tian Han Pelon, Varnika Jakka, Varshan Muhinthan, Varshini Barla, Veena Karthik, Yathisekar Debetta   𝗔𝗱𝘂𝗹𝘁 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀:  Priya, Srinath, Vanitha, Vijay, Samynathan, Prasad, Jaisankar, Komathy, Suresh, Shobana, and Jyothi FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/VhL2bjrNgQchSuNR/?mibextid=qi2Omg INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/p/C27cVq5O5ZY/?igsh=MXJqaGFqbHRrOHE3dQ== Grocery Bag Drive- 1/31/2024 Despite our access to resources like food and warmth during the cold winter, many families in our community still lack these essentials. Organizations like Open Door Ministries provide crucial support to these families by operating food banks. To aid their efforts, our Youth Board donated grocery bags for packing food. With the collaboration of 39 members, we collected over 3000 bags to support our local food bank. 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 LEAD: Shreya Shetty 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐕𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐫𝐬: Aanya Das, Abisrishti Ram,  Aditya Sankar, Akshitha Mylavarapu, Akshith Ashwant, Ananya Sankar, Anisha Madalla, Arnav Sharma, Avni Patel, Cordelia Laframboise, Hajanthan Muhinthan, Jishnu Kandalam, Kushal Durga, Mohammed Hussain, Nidhi Rao, Nikhil Aerabati,  Nithin Ramkumar, Oviya Jaisankar, Rachana Raghunathan, Rishi Adduri, Rishi Chowdhry, Rishma Madalla, Sai Charan, Sai Sahasra, Sai Sri Ram, Samhith Eganti, Sanjula, Sathvik Tirumala Kanduri, Savithri Bhatta, Shivam Shah, Shraya Ved, Shruthi Adduri, Shyam Bhatta, Swara Rege, Tian Han Pelon, Varshan Muhinthan, Varshini Barla, Veena Karthik, and Yathisekar Debetta 𝐀𝐝𝐮𝐥𝐭 𝐕𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐫𝐬:  Priya, Srinath, Vanitha, Vijay, Samynathan, Prasad, Jaisankar, Komathy, Suresh, Shobana, and Jyothi FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vtseva.detroit/posts/pfbid02BwhV4pw64EGRSbwCny1XAd8YE6zgkMwzyc7gBetwd6L4ur7kjRzGfUmUkK4YeArBl INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/p/C2wvBHVufe6/?img_index=1 CASS Community Cooking Event-2/18/2024 The Cass Community Social Services Cooking Service Event is always a memorable experience, filled with joy, tears, and even some singing. Residents were greeted with a clean dining room and pantry, appreciating the effort to provide a welcoming environment. Making a difference was truly delicious, as we were able to feed 130 people who enjoyed the food we prepared. We look forward to returning for another rewarding experience. 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 LEAD: Oviya Jaisankar 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀:  Oviya, Jishnu, Varshini, Diya, Rithvik, Rishabh, Akshitha, Shruthika, Soumya, Aanya, Shruthi A & Soham   𝗔𝗱𝘂𝗹𝘁 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀:   Priya, Jaisankar, Niveditha, Srilatha, Savithri, Lalitha, Niladari, Nalini & Shailaja FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vtseva.detroit/posts/pfbid0jxB29KCkfsvTMPqMpCs72v1z9CibDr2iaTeZEmDrHbTRszFMnL9JKuMKyVfhsZwRl INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/p/C3hzjEfuL88/?img_index=1 VTSeva Detroit Youth Board Teen Mental Wellness Event Teen mental wellness is crucial for adolescent health, covering emotional, psychological, and social aspects. Friendships are vital for this wellness, offering support and belonging. Our youth gathered on this day to exchange positive messages, fostering a supportive community. 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀:  Aditi, Akshitha, Oviya, Shreya, Pelon, Shivani, Shivam, Sai, Sreenika, Anvika, Ishan, Akshaya. Anirvin, Jayanth, Shruthi, Shruthika, Rishi, Izzy, Sathvik, Swara & Sneha. FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vtseva.detroit/posts/pfbid0Mz3rJ3dC2vYYhWb49mUB8HnGnufc8cPgZypExGtP2NVRcNeubKFWfEwVz9z9W9uol?__cft__[0]=AZVa5OvXPnu71YYSHVxUGYl3rgx0sMl6ls04AKhnKHn7s13z5fdjy8pinsPqRaXYI0aDd48Cyhmmtpk4yE1WmyZSMko2q6RJrTnwTnzteQ9B_hEbilcBBGTguA9F0NfhPmRt1B3jTs7dDctKPXq0wBmStW-2h1rfHuNsVv7aCAVArxwmUb3sVk6p_28M3j3L52XQQfcar1eolLDn4PMbyjFz&__tn__=%2CO%2CP-R VTSeva Youth Board Coats and Socks Drive-3/7/2024 VTSEVA Detroit Youth Board collected 144 New & Gently Jackets and 108 pairs of New & Gently socks for Grace Centers of Hope. This organization supports homeless and chemically dependent community members in southeast Michigan. Donated items will be distributed or sold to buy food and resources. 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 LEAD: Hajanthan Muhinthan 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀:  (𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗮𝘁) Aanya, AbiSrishti, Akshita, Akshith, Amogh, Anirvin, Anushka, Avni, Cordelia, Diya, Eashan, Hajanthan, Harsh, Hrudya, Kalki, Kavi, Nirvan, Nithin, Oviya, Rachana, Rishabh, Rishi C, Rithvik, Sai, Sai Hasini, Sai Sahasra, Saicharan, Samhith, Satvick, Shraya, Shruthi, Swara, Tian Han, Varshan, Varshini, Veena, Videep. 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀: ( 𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗦𝗼𝗰𝗸𝘀)  Akshita, Akshith, Amogh, Avni, Cordelia, Diya, Eashan, Hajanthan, Harsh, Hrudya, Nirvan, Oviya, Pranav, Rachana, Rishabh, Rishi, Rithvik, Sai, Sai Sahasra, Saicharan, Satvick, Shraya, Shruthi, Swara , Tian Han, Varshan, Varshini, Veena, Videep. FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vtseva.detroit/posts/pfbid02vk4hfX86MgYSxcLfv4yD5vNmYTFrh593j134BS4Kwfnvv6QicVjMaaDUdX7dy8YGl INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/p/C4Nfbi5upUT/?img_index=1 Open Door Food Ministry Volunteering Event- 3/21/2024 During our volunteering experience at Open Door Food Ministry, we assisted in various tasks to support their mission of serving those in need. This food pantry serves approximately 400 families weekly, distributing an average of 20,000 lb of food per week. Our tasks included organizing sugar packets and condiment packages for inclusion in food packages, assisting in the assembly line to load carts for each family, and cleanup after food distribution. 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 LEAD: Shreya Shetty 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀:   Kushal Durga, Avni Patel, Jishnu Kandalam, Amogh Mavatoor, Rishabh Mavatoor, Shraya Ved, Akshith Ashwanth, Aditi Jethri Kompally, and Shreya Shetty 𝗔𝗱𝘂𝗹𝘁 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀: Kalyani Nallamilli, Vandana Durga, and Niveditha Mavatoor FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vtseva.detroit/posts/pfbid09gadsFaeqQYUMNPochUfAhHvucmxSBKUXPmtphNrbXBBpQH9xFUhJisAmL5Hg3V3l Brilliant Detroit In-Person Volunteering- 3/31/2024 VT Seva Detroit volunteers recently collaborated with Brilliant Detroit, assembling 415 STEM kits for their Adventures in Science and Stories in Science programs. These kits aim to support student learning in STEM subjects, with 16 dedicated volunteers contributing to the initiative. 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 LEAD: Amogh Mavatoor 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀:  Aditya Sankar, Akshith Ashwanth, Amogh Mavatoor, Ananya Sankar, Avni Patel, Jishnu Kandalam, Shraya Ved, Shruthi Adduri, Swara Rege, Sriraam Hebbar, Nitya Sankar, Rishabh Mavatoor 𝗔𝗱𝘂𝗹𝘁 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀:    Pallavi Patel, Nalini Sangita, Neha Ved, Vanitha Gopalan FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vtseva.detroit/posts/pfbid02wpt7yNaQC2bEdgaLmZwe9bxswEeKZYRt7aneDuAuCMZCXtG5fYqmmDJRr3ozd3dXl Detroit Projects: Food Gatherers Packing Event-1/6/2024 Food Gatherers, a leading agency for hunger relief in the county, supports a network of 170 community partners with free and low-cost food deliveries. Our volunteers sorted dairy, produce, and packaged food, preparing 783 lbs of food for delivery in just 3 hours. Additionally, over 800 lbs of compost will be used to feed animals on local farms. 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀:  Jisnu Kandalam, Kirupali Sathyanathan, Avni Patel, Shruthi Adduri, Varshan Muhinthan, Hajanthan Muhinthan, Shraya Ved, Rishi Chowdhury, Kushi Kanumuri 𝗔𝗱𝘂𝗹𝘁 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀:   Praveen K, Pallavi P, Vijay K, Sathyanathan V, Durga Nalini, Komathy M, Vanitha G FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/vtseva.detroit/posts/pfbid0GPodK6BDsGM6dKPP7cdg4tWPQLebPoNM7q5dCaL3Vu86bnXY943XrSVs5o44u1x5l?__cft__[0]=AZX0ZlAJg1LI4FocrSiaGfUotI2INh7mblhoBthbR8hakY3irVyPIcceSfY4tROjMYx_bSUOnMTFMXfwWbhOTM0yHFevtpjVkOoVvHeqxFjsqrgAYn2h13Va6IN8MxW_hhg5i9UTT6GJAyZ38-5pnxW8q_CFlMN-1pXIXiKcpBGAW7EQoARZ3K880qKqX1WtPvUbsUw5yq6bzeQab_IJg_lM&__tn__=%2CO%2CP-R DRAW Warehouse- 1/20/2024 13 VT Seva Detroit volunteers (Youth & Adults) volunteered at the  DRAW (Disaster Relief At Work)  Disaster Relief At Work warehouse that provides aid to natural disaster victims. We cleaned 60 tables to be distributed to a city in Mississippi as disaster relief from tornadoes. 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 LEAD: Shraya Ved 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀:  Shraya Ved, Avni Patel, Jishnu Kandalam, Kushi Kanumuri, Amogh Mavatoor, Rishi Harish, Kaustubh Dingari 𝗔𝗱𝘂𝗹𝘁 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀:   Vanitha Gopalan, Neha Ved, Pallavi Patel, Praveen Kanumuri, Chandra Kanumuri, Nivedhita Mavatoor, Suresh Rajan FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vtseva.detroit/posts/pfbid0377wfVjwxcvBdCFbi8orrFTbCUNGG8rukwHCaHz5BuAQqrQsLSSfDjxHqcp1f4AhUl?__cft__[0]=AZWrRrZg2A-xKuXzlTSmUchn9g5pqGyAouagynvP2XN7BTVMeH2LpyW6niuctFaymUs4O9orB1aZdK1TIKAErP25D5i-ZluecWGRRKZ_aVFzKF7uUFuKu_KH21E0UGlAOrDGGkJfR4rsy_ec19IazqLR433MWr3m2CMyCN7ggrF06PxafVgr8XoRKruxSRHHzmucgAYwbNLMsMi-QiArlGqN&__tn__=%2CO%2CP-R Capuchin Soup Kitchen- 1/27/2024 Capuchin Soup Kitchen provides healthy meals to the homeless and hungry, serving breakfast, lunch, and         dinner. Nine volunteers assisted with tasks such as serving food, prepping ingredients, organizing inventory, baking desserts, and cleaning the kitchen and dining area. 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 LEAD: Harshini Manthena 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀:  Kaustubh Dingari, Rishi Harish,, Amogh Mavatoor, Rishabh Mavatoor, Harshini Manthena 𝗔𝗱𝘂𝗹𝘁 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀:   Srinivasa Raju Manthena, Vanitha Gopalan, Srivardhan Dingari, Nivedhita Mavatoor. FACEBOOK:  https://www.facebook.com/vtseva.detroit/posts/pfbid0zhD9TFwKXcSoxuoCWqr1keuK289gWB2nFMHuYAHJZJ5YL2Gw8wp3hwtnuPGeqywKl?__cft__[0]=AZUK6BLZWevtR_J_O5j7fe-C-Og-l5zV1E8fY9PWJojGPJyvpl7rEMlSC4j7BzkHib6-sQSsuAk73laEjuohkgrtNxgKBrkqKilrgGJB49yUw4oLZgc7ZEI1qCCG52dmOlnl9jfwAko7z1TSDjoPE9wu50OmDdyBbEsBMQCNTj1fGmgfBSNf9z8j-v3yrGfCfQ0fzgOiqBJYJnY26_61LvbQ&__tn__=%2CO%2CP-R World Medical Relief Center- 2/17/2024  On February 17th, 2024, VT Seva Detroit volunteers had an inspiring learning opportunity as well as an amazing volunteering experience at the  World Medical Relief  center. In total we had 12 volunteers who did a great job sorting medical supplies along with the lead director of the medical center. 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 LEAD: Anirvin Ramanan 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀: Anirvin Ramanan, Deekshitha Rave, Yathi Shekar Debbata, Shraya Ved, Avni Patel, Hrudya Kishore, Swara Rege 𝗔𝗱𝘂𝗹𝘁 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀:   Vanitha Gopalanm Swathi Debbata, Pallavi Patel, Ranga Rao Ravu, Suresh Rajan. FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vtseva.detroit/posts/pfbid0S4GhJR7i6kUhkdJJ2rFYQhbbJc25UnnKjtH7dcRuVHCY7sZSJ5XFBtresafQTmkvl?__cft__[0]=AZXAc3C92fNpjsXHDeQohdJO5AoGAcHlp0v9SJaTm-vU0XTeU8mPWmC30f139s_cwLQlMCUrm_9gRPG-eaxi_TwfYzI0kJ79-Z9jl-AkdtxfStQbfyoeO0vtTmecPMfhxbcoD9yL__2igPBfZaIrdW0qa58_OoEeseamvDyKHk-S4YiPPRfm0SfkWYW7N-kx7WrS2tUmp6fs_sKdmptjaM9n&__tn__=%2CO%2CP-R Clean Love Project- 2/24/2024 Our volunteering experience at The Clean Love Project was incredibly rewarding. In total, 17 volunteers came together to assemble hygiene kits for women in need. These kits, totaling 2,071 hygiene items, will be distributed to women and young girls in Detroit schools, food pantries, and homeless shelters. Our efforts aim to alleviate their hygiene needs and empower them to feel clean, loved, and empowered. 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 LEAD: Avni Patel 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀:  Avni Patel, Shraya Ved, Hrudya Kishore, Jishnu Kandalam, Kushi Kanumuri, Aarabhi Ratish, Anushka Vikram,  Swara Rege, Amogh Mavatoor, Ruthvi Ala, and Vedhya Raja 𝗔𝗱𝘂𝗹𝘁 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀:   Vanitha Gopalan, Pallavi Patel, Praveen Kamumuri, Chandra Kamumuri, Vijay Kandalam, and Rajesh Raja FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vtseva.detroit/posts/pfbid0MAsUvVaYyjZydp2A4qQ3KLGrCYkK6iDYBmtNurCRRLKCb72UYPZAbJqVNhVTtwDil?__cft__[0]=AZX_2PPjbnicpaAFd_DcGEPfJJnWk444PZV3Dgq3tVF8HnWJx1QVkk-px2O4cLN8nOYKwSFPeNBIyr5pzAUdZhrt0qLdcClvrzZd1Zx8AldhhC7qmwXap_OwG7CLqtPbw1eBdO4XnQYev2IN9VxdtF9XWR3KTMh8_EeKM1yLDMpm6dkAUNW2dmSzOuStFy1rR3aRQv2Eq2lsq_XN64M5zVM_&__tn__=%2CO%2CP-R FMSC Food Packing Event-3/1/2024 Several VTS students volunteered at the Feed My Starving Children Food Packing Event to pack food for children in need. This experience taught us gratitude for our necessities. Our group assembled 552 bags, totaling 131,760 meals. With 18 volunteers, we made a significant impact on children's lives by providing nutrient-rich food packets. 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 LEAD: Sathvik Surapaneni 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀: Sanjula Karunaraj, Rachana Raghunathan, Sai Sahasra Namuduri, Jishnu Kandalam, Sathvik Surapaneni, Hanjanthan Muhinthan, Varshan Muhinthan, Udhayaa Arul, Tejas Raja. 𝗔𝗱𝘂𝗹𝘁 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀:   Vanitha Gopalan, Shalini Musunuru, Suresh Rajan, Raghunathan Namuduri, Rajesh Raja, Kavitha, Komathy M FACEBOOK:  https://www.facebook.com/vtseva.detroit/posts/pfbid0eQgxVvBGCeFedcN3NqgLGFTaR4ZVJeRisCRk849YuWgVPLcviW3FsUGwehioPCAkl?__cft__[0]=AZWTynNead5oIRxWlXJZ3Uco_rJvecJiF0TuVG6ss_b9ZCF3LwKTz0N1GdvVpvPY3Yx8MqRSRs1MrFduzZ2gor5P2JrWhCYAa5YHrbN27Ap6GDFRZh8GshcRv5PCWtwxQW3GQsT8m34-BcUo14bqYnl7aH2i-tp2Qo0YDMjC_XaIHF2lkQAntMDJ8Ou4UQwTsU_9BKPNtGi5NbhmMhdAwTh6&__tn__=%2CO%2CP-R Food drive and fundraising for Lighthouse pantry with Kroger stores solicitation- 3/17/2024 Despite challenging weather conditions, the food drive for Lighthouse Food Pantry in Pontiac, MI, supported by Kroger Store, was a success. Volunteers gathered 17 boxes of food donations and $580 in cash, thanks to the generous support of Kroger customers from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. Enthusiastic volunteers, both youth and adults, contributed to the event's success, ensuring that the donations collected will benefit the Lighthouse Food Pantry next week. 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀:   Abisristhi Ram, Anishya Madala, Rishi Harish, Tejas Raja, Rachana, Sai Karnati, Rishma Madala, Kushi Kanumuri, Vedhya, Videep Routhu, Varshan, Yathi Debbata 𝗔𝗱𝘂𝗹𝘁 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀: Shobana Arun, Bindhya Raja, Praveen Kanumuri, Ramesh Routhu, Srinathbabu Karnati, Suresh Rajan, Vanitha Gopalan FACEBOOK:  https://www.facebook.com/vtseva.detroit/posts/pfbid02eYsxjttCQBZKbxpUKRXUFacEahHyxq9Jr3ageES2E6U4Yv88fny8D9ufoyz6devXl?__cft__[0]=AZUz2M9iUHPFrtwoR1pMoNZWDsbZAQaInVInxq1HcBXh9gK8Mk2l7QhtjDbFL-vVVo659Y_ydCRn3m0iLoIlPxRqBQOX85fjnHTlESHEfKkToavrK8Xpy91-jDdVUNjtYTgRQlC_-VBZdCDw5gE20ix8gdze3l9dww0iSBYWh1Zr7I_9O9_CZ8gpI_h_xluUjiDKo0PMZtWaprUDml3ZkA24&__tn__=%2CO%2CP-R Destined For Greatness Ford Wellness Center- 3/30/2024 A team of 15 volunteers assisted with an Easter event benefiting underprivileged children, aiding in material setup and organization. The event, hosted by Destined for Greatness, served over 300 families, distributing 15,000 gifts and 90,000 meals. VT Seva Detroit volunteers proudly supported this initiative, highlighting the joy of community service and giving back. 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 LEAD: Rohan Patil 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀:     Jishnu Kandalam, Nikhil Aerabati, Avni Patel, Shruthi Adduri, Swara Rege, Shraya Ved, Ritvik Harsha,                Amogh Mavatoor, Rishabh Mavatoor 𝗔𝗱𝘂𝗹𝘁 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀: Durga Nalini, Vanitha Gopalan, Neha Ved, Savita Patil, Suresh Rajan FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/vtseva.detroit/posts/pfbid0UwueUGzfJjVSdeYEtVX3sikQftZyBxkeEjVm843F6GhTxzK84jfaLz3q84Hpttqhl Annual / FundRaiser Events VT Seva Detroit 7th Annual Public Speaking Workshop VT Seva Detroit conducted the 7th Annual Public Speaking Workshop marked a significant milestone in the journey of empowering individuals to articulate their ideas with confidence and conviction. Hosted by Mr. Raju Brahmandhabheri, the expert Toastmaster and founder of Speaking Masters LLC., who continuously support Nethra Vidyalaya students’ education through VT Seva Detroit. On Mar 2, 2024, Online workshop was conducted by Mr. Raju, students from different states participated. A great interactive session with the youths. Participated students learned the techniques in delivering a good speech and presented their speech in the Farmington Hills Library on Mar 9, 2024 and received feedback from Mr. Raju. Thanks to our youth volunteers Adhip, Yathi & Kaustubh for giving a speech about VT Seva pillars to the participants and their families. 𝗔𝗱𝘂𝗹𝘁 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀:    Without volunteers, no event is possible, we would like to thank Ms. Priya Jaisankar, Mr. Srinath Babu Karnati, Ms. Architha Kramadhati, Mr. Sudheer Koppu, Mr. Suresh Rajan, Ms. Vanitha Gopalan, Ms. Asha Puranam and Mr. Jaisankar Kannan. BLOG LINK:  VT Seva Detroit 7th Annual Public Speaking Workshop ( vtsworld.org ) VTS Club Events Troy High and IAE- Boxing groceries for The Dre Project Event leader:  Pelon Date : Jan 26, 2024 On Sunday Jan 26, 2024, Troy High VTS club had led an event where club members from Troy High School VTS club and Troy International Academy East High School VTS club had come together to help pack food donation boxes for The Dre Project. Starting in 2020 in memoriam of Andrea Kristin Jackson, The Dre Project delivers grocery and home-cooked meals to families in need throughout metro Detroit. At the end of the event, both clubs had worked together and had boxed groceries for 25 families! These many families wouldn’t have gotten boxed groceries if it were not for the help of student and parent volunteers. Thank you student and parent volunteers for your time and effortDedicated! 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀:   Pelon Lin, Sashi Nadigotti, Anuraag Balaji, Anirvin Ramanan, Akshaya Palanisamy, Sneha Chandrasekhar, Shruthika Pallapothu, Aidan Schroeder, Mathew Yang, Luke Sugawa, Sharan Sivakumar 𝗔𝗱𝘂𝗹𝘁 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀:    Eddie Lin , Deepthi Venkataraju FACEBOOK:  https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid05DVRUDFCuNB8z4vDv72 GpKG23zqHbvuhdbQTsZbfft4kVvNTeBJ86fi7STm9JQ28l&id=100088474285020 North Farmington HS VTS Club- Fleece and Thank You Event Leader:  Ayeisha Shahreair Date : Jan 31, 2024 NFHS VTS Club officially kicked off their community service by conducting their first event at Fleece & Thank You. They made blankets for children in the hospital. INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/p/C2zna1WOXIJ/?igsh=aGNrcjd3MGFyN24x Troy High VTS Club- Book Drive for Making Spirits Bright Event leader: Shruthika Pallapothu Date : Feb 5, 2024 Troy High VTS Club conducted a book drive together with VT Seva Detroit. All the books collected are donated to “Making Spirits Bright”. We have collected a whopping 650 books! Making Spirits Bright sort through all the books they receive and donate them to schools, individual families, senior living and even to prisons. We made a difference in people of all age Levels. Thank you so much to everyone who donated. Thanks to all who were collecting books and dropping them off. Each book donated is going to make someone happy for sure. Special thanks to the parents who allowed their homes to be drop off locations. 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀: Aanya, ,Aarush ,AbiSrishti Akshaya, ,Akshita ,Akshith , Amogh, Anishya, Anushka , Anvika, Arnav, Arya, Cordelia, Eashan , ,Hrudya, Karthik, Nirvan, Nithin, Oviya, Pranav, Rachana, Rishabh, Rishma ,Ruthvi, sai, Sai, Sai Hasini, Sai Sahasra, Saicharan, Sathvik, Shivam, Shraya, Shreya, Shruthi, Shruthika , Sreenika , Swara , Tian Han, Harshini, Veena , Videep, Yathi 𝗔𝗱𝘂𝗹𝘁 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀:   Priya, Nalini, Srinath, Ranjani, Komathi, Haritha, Jaisankar Troy IA VTS Club- Sorting at Children Hospital Event leader: Ishan Iyer,  Nishant Sharma Date: Feb 19, 2024 On February 19th, 2024, VT Seva Troy volunteers had an opportunity to help many people in the Detroit area through the Children center, a place that has the mission to help vulnerable children by providing clinical, behavioral and academic support. 8 volunteers did a great job helping organize clothes along with some hanging clothes. This work will make it easier for people who maybe can’t afford these clothes to be able to shop for them easily in the Children’s Center either FREE or for a very minimal price. Overall this experience made us volunteers fulfilled and was a great learning experience for us. 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀:   Ishan Iyer, Nishant Sharma, Aarya Venugopal, Sameer Singh, Arnav Sharma, Vatsal Oza, Chinmay Sujith Nair, Shalini Jayaprakash 𝗔𝗱𝘂𝗹𝘁 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀:   Kannan Iyer and Shalini Jayaprakash FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/share/tc72dEyLvLvMZXCK/?mibextid=WC7FNe INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/p/C3na0H7rG2C/?igsh=NHRoMjh2dXh4ZHJz Troy HIGH VTS Club- Grace Center of Hope Soup Kitchen Event leader: Akshaya Palanisamy Date: Feb 19, 2024 On February 19, 2024 Troy High VTSEVA volunteers had volunteered at Grace Centers  of Hope Soup Kitchen In Pontiac, MI. The organization provides a 9-month rehab program for addicts to come clean and to set them up for the real world through classes, service and treatment plans. In addition, the organization also helps refurnish houses and sells them for affordable prices to help people around the community. This day volunteers had worked in the prepping and serving dinner for 60+ rehab patients. The volunteering effort was an overall success and volunteers were glad to help the community. IAE VTS Math Kangaroo Competition- 3/23/2024 A big thank you to all our volunteers who dedicated their time to host the annual Math Kangaroo Competition! With over 100 kids participating, we had a blast answering tricky math questions and engaging with the young minds. Volunteers played a crucial role in setting up tables, organizing testing materials, managing the registration desk, and proctoring the exam. We hope the kids enjoyed the event as much as we did, and we look forward to hosting it again next year. 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀:   Advait Pingle, Krisha Saparia, Sreeja Padmala, Anvika Perumalla, Sreenika Perumalla, Rohit Nemani, Arya Patel FACEBOOK:  https://www.facebook.com/vtseva.detroit/posts/pfbid0aafZFtoSpqzmbt5qPhNnNA6iGJfZ2GSi71pzrvtyqcMkNURmA2nEw4g9Dnd5MQmyl VTS Troy High- Gleaners Fundraiser The Troy High VT Seva club, in collaboration with the National Honors Society of Troy High, successfully folded 500 bags for the Gleaners cause. By partnering with the NHS, we were able to enlist more volunteers and reach our goal of folding 500 bags out of the total 2000 needed for the first round. With the help of dedicated volunteers, we completed the bag folding in three sessions. A heartfelt thank you to all our volunteers for their time and effort, and to Gleaners for providing us with this opportunity to make a difference in our community! FACEBOOK:  https://www.facebook.com/vtseva.detroit/posts/pfbid0QqcUdHoXSgAiTjDVoKS2KKbH17Ksec1DR28giL5wxFbbKaCrQmYpDaGF13C8MqDdl Blog written: Veena Karthik (VTSeva Detroit Youth Board) Video created: Shruthi Adduri (VTSeva Detroit Youth Board) Blog published: Nandini Cheemalamarri (VTSeva Detroit Communications)

The VT Seva Detroit branch had an incredible fourth quarter filled with impactful activities and initiatives to support those in need. From community service projects to creative events and successful fundraisers, the volunteers demonstrated immense dedication and compassion. These efforts provided opportunities for learning, collaboration, and making a difference in the lives of many. Here is a summary of activities carried out by VT Seva Detroit from October to December: Youth Board Events: DAV Flower making project. EyeGlass Drive  Community Family Life Center Salvation Army Bell Ringing Day 1 Salvation Army Bell Ringing Day 2 Capuchin Service Center  High School Club Events: IAE: Craft Kit for Children Hospital Play Place for Autism kids Leaf Raking for Seniors Turkey Craft Making for Children Hospital Play Place for Autism Kids NFHS VTS: Poster making for food drive Paper Bag Decoration for CARES Trunk or Treat Decoration and candy passing for CARES Troy High VTS: Treat for Troops Halloween Science Scavenger Hunt at Cranbrook Institute of Science Museum Archimedes Event at Cranbrook WIHI: Turkey Craft kit for Mott Children Hospital Detroit Events: RAAS 2024 Promotion VTSEVA Detroit 9th Annual RAAS Detroit Fundraisers: Outreach Project Youth Board Events: 07/30/2024, 08/01/2024, 11/26/2024 DAV Flower making project Youth Lead: Shruthi Adduri VTSEVA Detroit Youth Board participated in the DAV volunteer program to assemble FORGET ME NOT flowers. The forget-me-not is meant to serve as a symbol of remembrance for servicemen and women and those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. The flowers came on perforated sheets and these flowers are affixed with a glue dot, and added a stem/DAV label. Volunteers met over 3 days to assemble 5000 flowers. It was a rewarding experience to be able to make these flowers and contribute to the efforts of giving back to the veterans. Youth Volunteers  - Aanya Das, Aarush Kollu, Advithi Kothaplli, Akshat Shrivastava, Atiksh Pardeshi, Avni Patel, Ayraa Swarnkar, Bhavita Sagi, Kushi Kanumuri, Mugdha Gupta, Pahal Shah, Rachana Raghunatha, Rishi Harish, Rohan Patil, Sai Sri Ram Karnati, Sanchi, Shreya Shetty, Shreyas Posam, Shruthi Adduri. Links :  https://www.facebook.com/profile/100064605402887/search/?q=flower https://www.instagram.com/p/DDfYteiRv6E/?igsh=ZjUyNGtuNjFpOHd6 10/31/2024 - Eyeglass Drive Youth Lead: Varshan Muhinthan VTSEVA Detroit Youth Board collected 168 pairs of gently used eyeglasses to donate them to those in need in Sri Lanka. By donating old, used glasses in good shape, participants of this drive allowed for the people of Omanthai, Sri Lanka to be prescribed and sent glasses by a local doctor free of charge. Thanks to all the participants for giving a second chance to your glasses and a better vision to those in need. Youth Volunteers  - Aanya Das, Oviya Jaisankar, Jishnu Kandalam, Sai Karnati, Hajanathan Muhinthan, Varshan Muhinthan, Rachana Raghunathan, Swara Rege, Shreya Shetty, Shalini Srinivas, Shraya Ved, Varshini Barla, youth from Atomic Toads Robotics team and youth from Cosmic Toads Robotics team. Links :  https://www.facebook.com/profile/100064605402887/search/?q=eye https://www.instagram.com/p/DCWOD9SRUxw/?img_index=1&igsh=MTlscnAxa2F3Y2R4bQ== 12/14/2024 - Community Family Life Center Youth Lead: Rishabh Mavatoor The youth board had an amazing time volunteering at the CFLC. They helped pack produce, canned goods, toiletries, and dairy, then loaded them into the cars of people in need. The team was able to assist around 100 households. This experience was meaningful, as it gave them a deeper understanding of how privileged they are to have food every day and how they can make a difference for others who may not be as fortunate. Youth Volunteers  - Aanya Das, Amogh Mavatoor, Hajanthan Muhinthan, Rishabh Mavatoor, Shreyas Posam, Varshan Muhinthan Adult Volunteers  - Niveditha Mavatoor, Komathy Muhinthan Links :  https://www.facebook.com/vtseva.detroit/posts/992942046202633 https://www.instagram.com/p/DES9dbBTAzx/?igsh=cWdoZ3owMDk1Mmti 12/20/2024-12/21/2024  Salvation Army Bell Ringing Youth Lead: Oviya Jaisankar The youth had a wonderful time bonding and singing Christmas carols during the event. It was incredibly inspiring to see the generosity of so many individuals who stopped to donate to the Salvation Army. This event continues to be a meaningful and uplifting tradition to conclude a year of volunteering, and the youth are excited to participate again in the future. Youth Volunteers  -  Friday: Aanya Das, Riya Bagri, Rishi Harish, Oviya Jaisankar, Adith Aswin, Saksham Patel Saturday: Oviya Jaisankar, Sai Karnati, Aanya Das, Ansh Patil, Advithi Kothapalli Adult Volunteers - Harish Jaisankar, Priya Jaisankar, Jaisankar Kannan, Srinath Babu Karnati Links :  https://www.facebook.com/profile/100064605402887/search/?q=bell https://www.instagram.com/p/DEBFSy9xPm-/?igsh=bjFucG80ajBxbW0y 12/21/2024 - Capuchin Service Center Youth Lead: Amogh Mavatoor The youth volunteered at the Capuchin Service Center in December. In this event, volunteers all worked together to help run the Capuchin Services Christmas Giveaway. They helped stock presents, helped attendees shop for presents, and helped greet and register attendees for this event. We helped over 300 families and around 600 kids during this event. Youth Volunteers  - Aanya Das, Amogh Mavatoor, Mihir Inamdar, Rana Nagoji, Rishabh Mavatoor, Tarun Senthilkumar Adult Volunteers -  Niveditha Mavatoor, Neeladhri Das Links :  https://www.facebook.com/vtseva.detroit/posts/992911969538974 https://www.instagram.com/p/DES2IV5zB50/?igsh=ZGszdG41dDVnbjh3 High School Club Events: 10/16/2024 - IAE - Craft Kit for Children Hospital 
Volunteers gathered for a mini craft kit-making event to benefit children in the hospital. Each kit included a paper ghost cut-out, eyes, a mouth, and stickers for decoration. It was a meaningful way to kick off the first in-school event of the year. 
Link : https://www.instagram.com/p/DBM_DnrpkCe/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== 10/20/2024 - IAE - Play Place for Autism kids 
Volunteers assisted at the Play-Place for Autism's "Costumes and Candy" event by setting up, decorating pumpkins, passing out cider and donuts, and cleaning up. The event brought joy to kids with special needs and their families. 
Link : https://www.instagram.com/p/DBXkFvtpCf9/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== 11/17/2024 - IAE - Leaf Raking for Seniors 
Volunteers helped rake leaves for senior citizens in Troy, clearing over 20 bags of leaves in total. This effort was a rewarding way to support the local community. 
Link : https://www.instagram.com/p/DCfmUI0Jod2/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== 11/20/2024 - IAE - Turkey Craft Making for Children Hospital 
Craft kits designed for Thanksgiving were created for hospitalized children. The kits included decorative items to embellish turkey cut-outs, ensuring the kids felt loved during the holiday season. 
Link : https://www.instagram.com/p/DCnMtsppBOx/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== 12/08/2024 - IAE - Play Place for Autism Kids 
Volunteers supported the "North Pole Stroll" Christmas party at the Play-Place Autism and Special Needs Center by organizing games, serving lunch, and managing activities. 
Youth Volunteers  - Sreenika Perumalla, Jennah Najor, Joseph Najor, Jewel Najor, Jacob Najor, Swara Patel, Kori Jones, Helena Fawaz, Deekshi Chittala, Arya Patel, Himanish Pasula. 
Link : https://www.instagram.com/p/DDVjAfupUQ2/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== 12/09/2024 - NFHS - Poster making for food drive 
Volunteers created posters to promote a food drive accepting canned goods, non-perishables, and diapers. Donations could be dropped off in Room 907 through December 17th. 
Link : https://www.instagram.com/p/DDX_GjLyGzB/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== 11/13/2024 - NFHS - Paper Bag Decoration for CARES 
Volunteers partnered with CARES to decorate paper bags for the food pantry, bringing color and creativity to the project. 
Link : https://www.instagram.com/p/DCdQIWuN_xC/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== 10/21/2024 - NFHS - Trunk or Treat Decoration and candy passing for CARES 
Volunteers joined CARES for their Trunk or Treat event, decorating buses and handing out candy to the local community. 
Link : https://www.instagram.com/p/DBY34nxx6Jl/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== 11/07/2024 - Troy High - Treat for Troops 
In collaboration with the Oakland County Sheriff's Department, volunteers collected over 17 pounds of candy for troops. Contributions came from Troy and Novi participants. 
Link : https://www.instagram.com/p/DDDXaW1p_7U/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== 10/26/2024 - Troy High - Halloween Science Scavenger Hunt at Cranbrook Institute of Science Museum 
At Cranbrook Institute of Science, volunteers guided children through exciting experiments as part of a Halloween-themed scavenger hunt. The event was educational and enjoyable for both kids and volunteers. 
Link : https://www.instagram.com/p/DByet1LxvDI/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== 10/18/2024 - Troy High - Archimedes Event at Cranbrook 
Volunteers explored historical inventions and replicas at the Cranbrook Science Institute while assisting with their Archimedes Event. 
Link : https://www.instagram.com/p/DBU0f6apSko/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== 11/25/2024 - WIHI - Turkey Craft kit for Mott Children Hospital 
Volunteers assembled turkey craft kits for patients at Mott Children's Hospital. The project spread holiday cheer and creativity. 
Link : https://www.instagram.com/p/DCzUxY9xR48/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Detroit Events: September-November - RAAS 2024 Promotion VT Seva volunteers demonstrated incredible dedication, braving all kinds of weather to promote RAAS 2024 and raise awareness about VT Seva’s impactful work. Over the course of several weeks, they organized events at local grocery stores and the Canton Temple, where they encouraged both cash and online donations. Their collective efforts resulted in significant contributions to support the education of 4 visually challenged children for a full year. Volunteers  -  Vani Groceries: Vanitha, Neha ji, Durga ji, Mythili ji, Praveen ji, Lavanya ji, Shraya, Jishnu, Khushi, Advithi, Sai India Groceries: Srinath ji, Vidya ji, Anand ji, Kavi Hindu Temple, Canton Volunteers: Pallavi ji, Shilpa ji, Srilatha ji, Prashanth ji, Srinath ji, Avni, Bhagya, Shreya, Supraja Troy India Groceries: Chandrasekhar ji, Kanchana ji, Vijay ji, Bala ji, Rathneesh, Kishore. Links :  https://www.facebook.com/vtseva.detroit/posts/966520922178079 https://www.instagram.com/p/DCz9qW-uUHM/?igsh=MXZtZ3k4bnN0ZzB5cw== VTSEVA Detroit 9th Annual RAAS RAAS-2024 – VT Seva Detroit 9th Annual Event The VT Seva Detroit branch celebrated its 9th Annual Cultural Event RAAS-2024 with great success, raising funds and engaging the community through various activities. Some of the key highlights of the event: • The VT Seva Detroit Board honored dedicated volunteers and donors with an evening of music, dance, games, food, and celebration. • VT Seva Detroit Board and Youth Board members shared updates from various Community Service Projects and Youth board activities. • Over 450+ people attended, which featured 13 cultural performances, engaging games, and an open-floor dance. • VT Seva Detroit Raised funds for over 300 visually challenged and tribal students’ education. Video Links of the event: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/15r2SvDdxP/ https://www.facebook.com/share/v/15jSPXcygT/ https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1DetkgXqBw/ https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1FMMsWGXik/ https://www.facebook.com/share/v/15hBDW6kos/ https://www.facebook.com/share/v/162TEVs8kX/ Detroit Fundraiser Events: 12/25/2024 - Outreach Project (6Oct-31Dec) What an incredible group of youth contributed to Outreach 2024! Their dedication and effort in securing donations until the very end of the year made a significant impact on the education of visually challenged students in our Nethra Vidyalaya Schools through the Outreach Project. Between October 6 and December 31—just 86 days—42 youth raised $26,518 through 224 donations. This incredible achievement supports education for more than 72 visually challenged students for an entire year. Youth Volunteers  - Oviya Jaisankar, Sai Sriram Karnati, Sathvik Thirumalakanduri, Bhavita Sagi, Shruthi Adduri, Anirvin Ramanan, Adhip Pisipati, Sneha Donepudi, Swara Rege, Sreenika Perumalla, Samriddhi Pathak, Kaustubh Dingari, Pierce Dzanbazoff, Bhagya Shetty, Sanyog Iyengar, Arya Patel, Kushi Kanumuri, Alicia Ramos-Versescu, Harini Kopparapu, Rathneeswar Balamurugan, Aanya Das, Abhiram Mudeganti, Advithi Kothapalli, Akul Madamshetty, Ritvija Mahabhashyam, Shreya Shetty, Lillian Applebaum, Shivani Nimmagadda, Anvika Perumalla, Pranavi Annavarapu, Avantika Nair, Riya Bagri, Himanish Pasula, Varshan Muhinthan, Shipra Valli, RoboKnights FTC Team, Deekshita Chittala, Jennah Najor, Andrea Zou, Aditi Jethri Kompally, Hiba Zyna, and Izyan Zunair. Links :  https://www.facebook.com/vtseva.detroit/posts/996789902484514 https://www.instagram.com/p/DEhcyhPuWSS/?igsh=MXRicnpwcTMxdmt0OA== Blog compiled by Rachana Raghunathan Video compiled by Shreya Shetty Blog published by Nandini Cheemalamarri (Detroit Communications)

"Words that do not cause distress, are truthful, inoffensive, and beneficial...these are declared as austerity of speech." - Bhagavad Gita Public speaking has become a crucial part in today’s society as a new generation of kids start to embrace and truly understand the power their voice holds. All of us know the importance that communication plays in our daily lives. VT Seva Boston’s youth-led Public Speaking Workshop was a success! Participants learned how to write a speech, how to deliver with voice modulation, the importance of prop usage, and many more. Through this Public Speaking Camp the Boston Youth team was able to sponsor the holistic education of 3 students, including their school uniform, books, and extracurricular activities! As a result of this camp, the Boston team invites all students to join them who hope to showcase their public speaking skills by participating in this friendly competition! Please review the rules and regulations, competition topics, and rubric before registering.

Recent Events Early College High School’s VT Seva club made goodie bags with sweet messages, snacks, trinkets, and water bottles for their bus drivers! They loved it! So glad our team could show the drivers some appreciation for all their hard work. Fabulous job ECHS! RRHS VTSeva club made cards and cookies to distribute to the local hospice center! Awesome job guys! The LHHS VTSeva club helped in the local Jingle Bell 1-5K run! Go LHHS! Recently, the Liberty Hill High School VTSeva club made handmade Christmas Cards, for the RMCH and Senior Citizens! Members made almost 100 cards in total, wishing people happy holidays. Great job LHHS! Our ECHS VTSeva club has made some wonderful birthday cards for the seniors at the New Century Hospice Center. Let’s applaud the members for their thoughtful work and look forward to more initiatives that touch hearts and strengthen bonds within our community! Awesome job ECHS! Our LHHS VTSeva club has recently worked with LHPD and created a food/personal items drive for Operation Liberty Hill. Their drive (Stuff-A-Cruiser) was a great success and club members helped load the items to be transported to help people in need. Wonderful job LHHS! Want to start a VTSeva schol club? Submit your application here . Brochure

The 2nd edition of the Khelo India Para Games, held from 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡 𝟐𝟎–𝟐𝟕, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓, 𝐢𝐧 𝐃𝐞𝐥𝐡𝐢, witnessed an inspiring display of talent, perseverance, and determination from our Nethra Vidyalaya students. Competing among 𝟏,𝟐𝟎𝟎 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐚-𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐬 from 𝟑𝟔 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬, our champions left an indelible mark with their exceptional performances. VT Seva proudly supports Nethra Vidyalaya, and this victory is made possible by the generous contributions of our donors and volunteers. 𝐌𝐞𝐝𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬: 𝟏𝟎𝟎 𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 (𝐓𝟏𝟏 𝐂𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐨𝐫𝐲, 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧) 🥇 V. Ravanni (Intermediate 2nd Year) – Gold Medal 🥈 Sirisha (Intermediate 1st Year) – Silver Medal 𝟏𝟎𝟎 𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 (𝐓𝟏𝟏 𝐂𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐨𝐫𝐲, 𝐌𝐞𝐧) 🥈 Ambati Swaraj (Degree 1st Year) – Silver Medal 𝟒𝟎𝟎 𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 (𝐓𝟏𝟏 𝐂𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐨𝐫𝐲, 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧) 🥇 K. Lalitha – Gold Medal 🥈 V. Ravanni (Intermediate 2nd Year) – Silver Medal 𝟐𝟎𝟎 𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 (𝐓𝟏𝟏 𝐂𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐨𝐫𝐲, 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧) 🥈 K. Lalitha – Silver Medal 𝐋𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐉𝐮𝐦𝐩 (𝐓𝟏𝟏 𝐂𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐨𝐫𝐲, 𝐌𝐞𝐧) 🥈 Ambati Swaraj (Degree 1st Year) – Silver Medal Total Medal Tally: 🏅 Gold Medals: 2 🥈 Silver Medals: 5 🎖️ Total Medals: 7 The athletes have received heartfelt congratulations from the President of the Para Sports Association of Andhra Pradesh, the Chairman of SAAP, and the Vice Chairman & Managing Director of SAAP. Their grit has been applauded, and they have been encouraged to aim for even greater heights, from national glory to the global stage of the Para Olympics! This remarkable achievement stands as a testament to the resilience, dedication, and hard work of our visually challenged athletes. Their unwavering spirit continues to inspire and reinforce the power of equal opportunities in sports. A big congratulations to all the winners and participants!!! 𝐀 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐝! 𝑲𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒂𝒌𝒂 𝑳𝒂𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒉𝒂 𝒉𝒂𝒔 𝒔𝒉𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒂 𝒍𝒐𝒏𝒈-𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒓𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 200𝒎 𝑻11 𝑪𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒈𝒐𝒓𝒚, 𝒄𝒍𝒐𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒏 𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒓𝒆𝒅𝒊𝒃𝒍𝒆 30.04 𝒔𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒅𝒔! The previous record of 32.46 seconds, held by Rakshitha Raju for four years, has now been rewritten by Lalitha—a proud student of 𝐍𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐚 𝐕𝐢𝐝𝐲𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐚, JIVA Campus, Shamshabad. This phenomenal feat has been 𝐨𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐚 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐊𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐨 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐚 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐚 𝐆𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐬! A unique coincidence? Both record-holders—Rakshitha Raju and Killaka Lalitha—were trained under the same dedicated coach, Sriman Rahul Ramakrishna Ji! His mentorship continues to shape exceptional athletes who redefine limits and inspire millions. Let's celebrate her historic victory and wish her even greater success ahead! Way to go, Lalitha!

Cancer is a disease that is impacting every single one of us directly o indirectly. Many among our friends or family have been through the wrenching experience of someone close to us battling cancer. BLOOM is an attempt to showcase artforms from East/West talents to local community performances to show that through arts, we care. The proceeds from this event help support VT Seva's Cancer outreach activities and local non-profit organizations helping cancer patients. "Expect to have hope rekindled. Except your prayers to be answered in wondrous ways. The dry seasons in life do not last. The spring rains will come again." - Sarah Ban Breathnach With that hope, VT Seva Volunteers of the Boston area request your participation and support in making this event a successful one. Date: April 20th, 2025 Venue: Bellingham High School, Bellingham, MA Admission: $25 per participant: including dinner, water, and one snack. Submit your entries by 03/30/2025 Thank you, Madhavi Donepudi Boston Branch Director Register Below to join our fight against cancer Fill out the form below if you are a performing arts group wanting to preform Fill out the form below if you are a business looking to set up a stall at the Bloom event

"The art of communication is the language of leadership." - James Humes When communication is effective, it leaves everyone who is involved satisfied and feeling accomplished. By delivering messages clearly, there is no room for misunderstanding or alteration of messages, which decreases the potential for conflict. This is a crucial skill needed for every one of us. Youths are future leaders, leaders with good communication skills can clearly define their vision to inspire and empower the people around them. VT Seva has been providing an opportunity for our youth to get introduced to public speaking and communication skills to advance their skills for the last 7 years. VT Seva is collaborating with Speaking Masters and bringing another great opportunity this year as well! VT Seva is proud to announce the 8th Public Speaking Workshop & Show Down presented by Speaking Masters . One-day virtual work workshop will be organized on March 15 and a free in-person public speaking showoff for the registrants will be held on March 22nd in Farmington Public Library . Please go through the Rules & Rubrics document before registering: During the online workshop on March 15 , the youth will be exposed to different aspects of public speaking like tone, vocal variety, how to avoid fillers, and many more by none other than one of the experts in public speaking and the founder of Speaking Masters, Mr. Raju Brahmandhabheri. This is a great opportunity for the youth to learn and refresh the nitty gritty of public speaking. The youth will also be provided an opportunity to practice what they learned on March 22nd during the public speaking in-person competition . Out-of-state students and long-distance students can send a video recording of their presentations to get personalized feedback. Raju Brahmandhabheri is passionate about public speaking and communication skills and has been part of Toastmasters International (the platform to improve Public speaking and leadership skills) for the last 10 plus years and achieved the DTM(Distinguished Toastmasters) award- the highest educational award in the Toastmasters program. To pursue his passion for teaching public speaking and communication skills to youths, he founded Speaking Masters LLC, a public speaking and communication skills coaching institute, and has been teaching these skills to kids in grades: 3-12 for the past four years. He has been receiving 5-star ratings from both students and parents for his public speaking classes. He is a mentor for high school students to coach/advise/prepare them for the annual Leadership Speech Contest hosted by the National Management Association (NMA). He has also served as a judge on various speech contests at Toastmasters and community organization’s educational competitions (public speaking, spelling bee, etc.). By profession, he is an Electrical Engineer currently working as a Senior Regional Engineering Manager at ITC Holdings Corp., Novi, Michigan. What a great way to support others while becoming competent in the essential life skills of Public Speaking & Communication! Don't miss the opportunity to learn from the best by registering ASAP!

VT Seva is a global, volunteer-driven nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering underprivileged and visually challenged children. In India, we proudly run numerous schools and colleges, providing free education and holistic care to those in need. Years ago, we embraced a special mission—to support an orphanage in Coimbatore that shelters over 500 orphans. With the unwavering generosity of our friends from Tamil Nadu, we provided the essential support needed for the organization to flourish. This heartfelt initiative sparked a tradition, where each year, we take up a special cause in Tamil Nadu to make a lasting impact. Through the grace of God and the kindness of our supporters, we have achieved remarkable milestones, including: ✅ Rebuilding schools devastated by floods in Cuddalore ✅ Constructing a dedicated facility for mentally and physically challenged individuals near Srirangam ✅ Building over 750 toilets  to uplift underprivileged communities in and around Coimbatore ✅ Supporting organizations in their mission to provide free education to rural children Your unwavering support and generosity fuel our ability to serve and uplift lives. Together, we continue to make a difference—one act of kindness at a time. At VT Seva, we believe in empowering communities by addressing fundamental needs. Today, we seek your support for a vital initiative—renovating the kitchen and constructing new toilets at Vishwa Hindu Sewa Samithi. Kitchen Renovation – Nourishing Millions with Care The current 16x11 ft kitchen, which serves countless meals through the Annapurna project, has suffered extensive damage from rain and natural wear. The presence of snakes and rodents poses serious challenges. To ensure a safe and efficient space for meal preparation, we aim to raise the foundation, expand the kitchen to 22x16 ft, and enhance its structure. The estimated cost is ₹12.5 lakhs . Toilet Construction – A Basic Human Right With numerous activities at the premises, there are only four toilets available for students and visitors, leading to inadequate sanitation facilities. To uphold dignity and hygiene, we plan to build 10 additional toilets , at an estimated cost of ₹6 lakhs . How You Can Make a Difference Your support can transform lives. Every contribution, big or small, brings us closer to providing a safe, hygienic, and functional space for those in need. Donations are tax-deductible , and if your employer offers donation matching, your impact is doubled! 100% of your contributions go directly to the cause.  We work tirelessly to uphold your trust and ensure that every rupee is used for meaningful change. Join us in this noble mission—because together, we can make a lasting difference! 🙏 Thank you for your generosity and support!  🙏

Join us in our monthly mission to serve! Austin VTSeva supports RMHC Lunches with Love by providing up to 50 sandwich bags to help support the families of in-patient kids at various children’s hospitals. We have served 48 lunches for the last 2 and a half years (around 1400 lunches), helping people save around $5,000! This activity occurs on the second Saturday of every month and we encourage anyone aged 12+ to pack lunches. However, if you are not available to pack lunches on the volunteering day but would still like to help the cause, we highly encourage food donations that are used during packaging! Date : Every Second Saturday Time : 10:00 AM Location : Ronald McDonald House Charities (1315 Barbara Jordan Blvd, Austin, TX 78723) Sign Up : The sign-up genius will be posted ten days before each event in the VTSeva Austin volunteers WhatsApp group You can also see it in the VTSeva Austin Upcoming Events page . Contact us : austinvtseva@gmail.com 2024 RMHC Recap Thanks to all the RMHC donors and volunteers for your continued support. We couldn't have reached these impressive numbers with out you. Looking forward to help more in 2025!!

The 23rd National Para Athletics Championship recently concluded in Chennai , running from February 17 to 20, 2025, at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium . This landmark event attracted 1,476 para-athletes from across India, competing in 155 events representing 30 teams, making it one of the largest para-athletic gatherings in the country. The championship was organized by the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) in collaboration with the Tamil Nadu Paralympic Sports Association (TNPSA), with significant support from the Tamil Nadu Government. The 23rd National Para Athletics Championship  in Chennai witnessed the unstoppable spirit and extraordinary achievements  of our talented para-athletes from Nethra Vidyalaya Junior & Degree College, Shamsabad ! Competing against the best in the country, our students showcased grit, determination, and excellence  on the grand stage. Lalitha  - GOLD  in 200m & 400m  (T11 Category) – A stellar performance that made the entire team proud! Ravanni  - GOLD  in 100m , SILVER  in 200m & 400m  (T11 Category) – A powerhouse on the track, proving her mettle with multiple podium finishes! Ambati Swaraj  - SILVER  in Long Jump  (T11 Category) – Leaping towards success with an inspiring effort! Sirisha  - BRONZE  in 100m  (T11 Category) – A fantastic feat, displaying her speed and endurance! Special mention to Surya Rohith from Nethra School  who missed the finals by just milliseconds , competing fiercely against senior players. His performance is a testament to his potential and unwavering determination – the future is bright! These athletes have once again proven that limitations exist only in the mind . Their achievements bring immense pride to Nethra Vidyalaya and the entire para-sports community ! Let’s continue to support and celebrate their journey towards greater heights in national and international arenas!