Vidyarthi Sahayaak Samiti (VSS) is a Pune-based NGO that provides lodging to underprivileged students. Since its establishment in 1955, the organization has assisted more than 8,000 students, and currently houses 747 students in four hostels. The hostels provide a variety of additional resources for residents, including sports, English classes, and other recreational and educational programs to help them thrive. Students also have access to free meals, medical help, and libraries. The three core pillars which Vidyarthi Sahayaak Samiti emphasizes are cleanliness, equality, and dignity of work, which are instilled in their students. Eligible applicants are given admission based on merit and necessity.

To donate to the organization in order to help them continue contributing to students’ success, please visit here or click on the button below.

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Thanksgiving is a time to take a pause and reflect on everything we are thankful for, surrounded by our loved ones. Many in this world are not so fortunate to have experienced this in their life. For over 50 years, Indians for Collective Actions (ICA) has been committed to supporting non-profits in India to improve the lives of the underprivileged. This service to humanity is not possible without the support of many volunteers and patrons spread across the United States and India. ICA will forever be Thankful to all its volunteers and patrons for their selfless service towards the greater cause of making this world a better place. If you would like to join ICA and continue striving for the betterment and empowerment of lives, please visit here and choose an organization to support.

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ICA has four New Board Members

1. Manju Mishra: For over 15 years, Manju has been dedicated to nonprofit work, supporting disadvantaged children and domestic violence victims. She serves as a Board Member and India Program Director for Uttar Pradesh Mandal of America (UPMA), working to improve the lives of underprivileged children in Uttar Pradesh. Manju has also contributed to Narika's efforts in aiding domestic abuse victims within the Asian/Indian community in the Tri Valley area. As a founding Advisory Board Member of ICC Tri Valley, she played a crucial role in community support during the challenging times of COVID-19. Additionally, she is a passionate promoter of the Hindi language and an accomplished poet. Manju joined the Rotary Club to expand her impact through global connections and experienced mentors. Now, with the opportunity to work with Indians for Collective Action (ICA), Manju aims to further her commitment to serving the community in India. ICA's comprehensive approach to humanitarian work, encompassing education, poverty alleviation, anti-trafficking, environmental initiatives, and empowerment of girls and women, aligns perfectly with Manju's mission to make a meaningful difference in the world.

2. Mukesh Advani: Mukesh Advani of The Advani Law Firm is an attorney in the Bay Area and practices in the areas of general corporate law and civil litigation. Mukesh is also included in the Martindale-Hubbell’s Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers and in 2014, 2015, 2018-2023 edition of the Northern California Super Lawyers. Mukesh has received several awards, including, the Minority Bar Coalition’s Award for Outstanding Service to the Community, SABA’s 20 th Anniversary Award, and the Indo-American Community Federation’s Leadership Award. Mukesh is the founder and past president of the original South Asian Bar Association (“SABA”) in San Francisco which was the inspiration for the formation of dozens of SABA chapters across North America with 26 Chapters and more than ten thousand members. Mukesh has also served as a member of the California Committee of Bar Examiners, the Ethnic Minority Relations Committee of the State Bar of California and the executive committee of the International Law Section of the State Bar of California. Mukesh has also served as Vice President and Chair, National Convention of South Asian Bar Association, North America. Mukesh started an award winning free legal clinic at the India Community Center in Milpitas and Columbia Neighborhood Center in Sunnyvale, which are open to the public. Mukesh was involved in starting the mentorship program of SABA in the early years of the organization. Mukesh has been a mentor to many young lawyers and law students over the years. Mukesh is very active in Indian American affairs. He was instrumental in forming the Indian American Task Force on terrorism and let a team of Indian Americans from across the country to Washington DC after the Mumbai terrorist attacks of 2008.

3. Ravishankar Byrappagowda: He is a highly skilled hardware design engineer employed at Cadence, a leading technology company. Based in the Bay area, Ravishankar leads a fulfilling life, balancing his professional career with active involvement in charitable activities and sports. His dedication to giving back to the community is evident through his significant contributions to several charitable organizations in the Bay area.

4. Priyanjali Datta: Priyanjali Datta is a dynamic and accomplished entrepreneur, recognized for her innovative work in the intersection of technology and healthcare. With a passion for transforming lives, Priyanjali is currently engaged in developing a cutting-edge Generative AI SAAS platform for wellness experts. Her groundbreaking solution revolutionizes video content generation, offering personalized and interactive experiences that are ten times superior to existing options.