User:Dhruvpanicker/New sandbox

Introduction
Sewa International is a non-profit humanitarian organization recognized for its comprehensive aid and relief efforts across global communities facing disasters and extreme distress. Established in 1993, the movement originated with the aim of involving the Indian diaspora in releif and aid activities both locally and in India, particularly in response to natural disasters. Sewa International has expanded to operate in over 25 countries, upholding the principles of "Service before Self" and the belief in a universal family (Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam).

With its registered non-profit trust initiated in India in 1997, Sewa International has transcended short-term disaster relief, venturing into long-term rehabilitation and sustainable development projects. Sewa International aligns its mission with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) outlined by the United Nations to foster global peace and prosperity.

Guided by Dharmic principles and an ethos of embracing diversity, Sewa International promotes self-reliance, operational excellence, and beneficiary empowerment.

Disaster Relief
Sewa International has been a significant contributor to disaster management efforts, especially within India, a country vulnerable to various natural calamities. Recognizing India's susceptibility to earthquakes, floods, cyclones, and drought impact a substantial portion of the country's landmass and surrounding population. Sewa International has always been one of the first responders in addressing the aftermath of such disasters.

Drawing from two decades of experience, the organization's disaster management philosophy is rooted in the '3Rs': Sewa International's disaster response initiatives have had a long-standing history from the Bhuj Earthquake in 2001 to other disaster relief efforts with the Uttarakhand disasters and Kerala floods, and the Tapovan glacial burst.
 * Rescue: Rapid response to crises to save lives and meet immediate survival needs.
 * Relief: Providing essential services and support to affected populations in the aftermath of a disaster.
 * Rehabilitate: Long-term support and reconstruction to return communities to normalcy and promote sustainable development.

The following is a list of disaster relief efforts Sewa International has provided aid to over the years spanning a total of 37 years:

Education
In addition to disaster relief, Sewa International is a key player in addressing the educational needs in India. It leverages education as a transformative force to increase access and affordability for undermined communities. Inspired by Robert Chambers' principle of 'Putting the last first,' Sewa International strives to empower marginalized groups by being the first to respond to their educational needs.

The organization has launched several initiatives aimed at combating challenges like high dropout rates, insufficient learning levels, inadequate educational infrastructure, and the need for sponsoring children’s education.

Interventions

 * School Kit Distribution
 * One of the main initiatives conducted by Sewa International is they distribute school kits to support unaided schools and economically disadvantaged students in remote areas. These kits, including bags and notebooks, and they aim to decrease dropout rates by eliminating the stigma and insecurity associated with lacking basic educational materials. More importantly, they boost the students' confidence in learning.


 * Bal Panchayats (BPs)
 * Bal Panchayat, or Children’s Parliament, is a space for children from the community to become active participants in development and change in their local communities.


 * Sponsor a Child
 * This one-to-one sponsorship program connects individual donors with underprivileged children, by awarding the opportunity to support these children financially to transform their lives, and by extension, uplift entire communities.


 * School Infrastructure
 * Recognizing the importance of the learning environment, Sewa International constructs school facilities that include administrative areas, classrooms, toilets, playgrounds, and common rooms. . Such infrastructure improvements are known to enhance educational quality, increase attendance, and boost teacher motivation.


 * Free Library (Akshar Bharti)
 * The Akshar Bharti project establishes free libraries with diverse reading materials, including comics, storybooks, and non-curricular educational books, to promote literacy and spark curiosity among students in underfunded schools. Mobile library services have also been implemented, extending this initiative’s reach within four Indian states: Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Rajasthan.

Social Impact

 * 92,200+ school kits distributed
 * 1,210+ libraries established
 * 25 computer training centers set up
 * 250 schools constructed

Global Work
Sewa International's global initiatives have a presence with respective chapters in over 19 countries, the organization's efforts have transcended national boundaries for more than two decades. Its work globally embodies the spirit of selfless service ('Sewa'), aiming to inspire and enact positive change across diverse communities worldwide.

Sewa Canada
Sewa Canada International Aid Inc. was established in January 1999 as a non-profit charitable organization. For over three decades, it has dedicated itself to serving underprivileged communities in Canada and India through a variety of initiatives, including disaster relief, humanitarian aid, education, health, and social development projects. The organization has actively pursued this mission within Canada, contributing significantly to the welfare of those in need.

Initiatives in Canada
Sewa Canada has been actively involved in several key initiatives within Canada to support communities in need:


 * Covid-19 International Students Aid
 * In response to the COVID-19 crisis and an appeal from the Consulate General of India, Toronto. Sewa Canada provided essential support to many Indian International Students facing hardships in Canada. The initiative aimed at alleviating the challenges posed by the pandemic to the student community.


 * Alberta Wildfires- Food Relief for Evacuees
 * During the wildfires in Alberta on May 19th 2023, in collaboration with WE TOGETHER STRONG COMMUNITY, Sewa Canada assisted evacuees and firefighters in Spruce Grove, AB, by distributing 150 fresh cooked meals, supporting those affected by the wildfires.


 * British Columbia Emergency Flood Relief & Aid
 * Following the emergency floods in British Columbia, Sewa Canada mobilized volunteers to provide critical aid, including non-perishable food, medicines, new warm clothes/blankets, water bottles, tents, electric heaters, and other essentials. Essential items were airlifted by helicopter, and relief materials were also transported by a team from Calgary, Alberta, to Merritt, BC, under challenging conditions.

Sewa USA
Following the impactful work of Sewa Canada, Sewa USA's Houston chapter stands out as one of its most dynamic branches in the United States. With a comprehensive range of projects and activities, this chapter embodies the full spectrum of Sewa's mission – from Disaster Relief and Rebuilding to Family Services, ASPIRE tutorials, and robust volunteering in the Houston local community. Notably, the 'Donate for Houston, TX' initiative exemplifies their commitment to supporting underserved populations within the city, aiming to make a significant difference in the lives of many.

More Initiatives
Sewa International is involved in a diverse array of initiatives beyond its core disaster relief and educational programs. These initiatives encompass long-term development projects, advocacy, and partnership programs aimed at fostering sustainable development and enhancing the quality of life for underprivileged communities.


 * Livelihoods & Skilling
 * Understanding the critical role of education and skill development in economic growth, Sewa International's initiatives align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 8 - ‘Decent Work and Economic Growth’. Efforts include women's empowerment through training in handicrafts in Uttarakhand, entrepreneurship through PMKVY centers in Uttarakhand and West Bengal, and skill development in digital literacy and entrepreneurship. These programs aim to make the youth and women self-reliant and future-ready.


 * Entrepreneurship Training
 * Focusing on local art and handicrafts, Sewa International's entrepreneurship training seeks to revive and modernize traditional crafts. Initiatives in Uttarakhand and Tripura support artisans in becoming competitive in the contemporary market, ensuring their crafts’ sustainability and growth.


 * Sanitation and Health
 * Sewa International's health initiatives improve access to healthcare services for the unreached, offering free medicines, medical consultancy, and diagnosis. Collaborating with government health departments and community workers, to distribute medical kits to enhance public health and awareness.


 * Sewa Fellowship
 * The Sewa Fellowship is a strategic program designed to empower young, bright minds with the skills and mindset to contribute to India's economic development. This 100-week program provides extensive mentor support, aligning grassroots development with a innovative vision.


 * Environment
 * In response to critical environmental issues such as climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss, Sewa International has launched initiatives to promote sustainability and environmental conservation. These efforts aim to ensure the well-being of future generations by fostering a harmonious relationship with nature.