Supporting education in remote parts of rural India
Our Bureau
Chicago, IL
Manav Seva Mandir, in Bensenville, IL, hosted an event for the Ekal Vidyalaya’s Chicago North chapter on Saturday, May 20, 2023. The event was a big success, attended by more than 400 followers of the non-profit organization which has been supporting education and empowerment projects in remote parts of rural India for tribals and the underprivileged.
This was Ekal’s first in-person event in the Chicago area and has held three successful fundraising events in Bloomington, Bensenville, and Naperville of Illinois over the weekend. More than 20 young Ekal volunteers served during the event, including a dinner. During Diwali, Ekal’s Youth chapter is very active in local communities serving at the local food pantry and training new volunteers.
An 11-year-old student, Ved Patel, from Prairie View Elementary School, Bartlett, IL, described his story of collecting and donating $150 to Ekal Schools by selling his video games online. A student at Stevenson High School, Abhay Agarwal encouraged others to serve in Ekal. A 10-year-old Aarth Bhatt, from Townline Elementary School, presented his wonderful village school experience at Ekal. The board members of the Ekal Chicago chapter make it a point to visit tribal areas in India and contribute towards Ekal’s mission.
Singers Vishwanath Batunge and Naina Sharma were the star attraction for the event.
