VOLUNTEERING

Join the Heartbeat of Our Family: Unite in Love and Service 
In Sai Aashraya, each person lives for one another, united in the sacred mission of love and service. Volunteers are the heartbeat of our family, empowering us to collectively touch millions of hearts as one cohesive team. Together, we nurture a singular dream encapsulated in our guiding motto for volunteering, 'One Team One Dream.' Our combined strength propels us to extend our wings, reaching further to touch more lives and, in the process, discover our true selves. 

If you feel a calling to be part of Sai Aashraya's extraordinary mission—a saga of love and selfless service—we wholeheartedly invite you to join us in our Seva Projects. To embark on this shared journey, please complete the 'Volunteer Information Form.' Once we receive your details, our dedicated volunteers will promptly reach out to you, aligning your interests and skills with ongoing Seva Projects while addressing our immediate requirements. Let's collaboratively work as one team to realize the singular dream that unites us all. 

With Abundant Love, 
Team Sai Aashraya

volunteer opportunities

Join the impactful mission of Healing Hearts by becoming a dedicated volunteer in our Hospital or participating in Medicare Camps conducted in remote areas across our Motherland. Experience the profound fulfilment of providing the most holistic and loving healthcare to the most underserved among us. 

Opportunities for Qualified Doctors: Qualified doctors, including those with expertise in General Medicine, Paediatric and Adult Cardiac Care (Surgery/Cardiology/Anaesthesia), Paediatrics, Neurology, and other specialties, are invited to contribute their skills and compassion in our Hospital. 

Opportunities for Medical Professionals: We welcome trained specialists in Community Medicine, Public Health, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, and other fields to join our hospital's services. MBBS doctors, interns, and medical practitioners are also encouraged to engage in both Hospital activities and Medicare Camps. 

Opportunities for Paramedics: Qualified Paramedics with diverse expertise in Nursing, Surgical Assistance, Laboratory Work, Physiotherapy, and other allied healthcare fields are invited to join our dedicated team.

Join our Medical Corps and be a crucial part of our mission to extend quality medical services to those in need. Step into a journey where your medical expertise and selfless dedication make a profound impact on one life at a time. 

About this Area of Volunteering 
Volunteering opportunity – Medical Corps 

Embark on a journey of innovation and impact with Sai Aashraya through our Coding and App Development volunteer opportunity. If you are fuelled by a passion for mobile app development and aspire to create the next generation of transformative apps, this is the perfect space for you. Seize the opportunity to shape the future of app technology while making a tangible impact on the communities we serve.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS:
  • Design and construct applications and Software Development Kits (SDKs) for the iOS platform.
  • Ensure the performance, quality, and responsiveness of applications, contributing to a seamless user experience.
  • Collaborate effectively with a team to conceptualize, design, and implement new features.
  • Identify and address bottlenecks, troubleshoot and resolve bugs, fostering continuous improvement.
  • Contribute to the maintenance of code quality, organization, and automation.

LEVEL OF COMMITMENT REQUIRED:
  • Dedicate a minimum of 2-5 hours per week to actively engage in coding and app development tasks, ensuring a consistent and meaningful contribution.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
  • Proficiency in iOS and Android SDK, along with expertise in app development tools. 

Your commitment and technical proficiency will be instrumental in advancing Sai Aashraya's mission and creating innovative solutions that drive positive change. Join us in turning your coding expertise into a force for good.

About this Area of Volunteering
Volunteering Opportunity - Coding and App Development

Channel your creativity and technical prowess in the realm of Web Development with Sai Aashraya. As a Web Development volunteer, you have the opportunity to shape the online presence of our organization, ensuring that our digital spaces are not only functional but also visually captivating and user-friendly. 

ESSENTIAL SKILLS:
  • Create, code, and enhance websites, utilizing standard HTML/CSS practices to achieve seamless functionality.
  • Collaborate closely with web designers to bring their concepts to life on the digital landscape.
  • Maintain constant communication with colleagues across the organization to develop and deploy content, establishing clear timelines for project completion.
  • Conduct research on different software programs and maintain comprehensive software documentation.
  • Implement contingency plans for potential website downtime and proactively troubleshoot any issues that may arise.
  • Take charge of the ongoing maintenance, expansion, and enhancement of the website once built. 

LEVEL OF COMMITMENT REQUIRED:
  • Dedicate a minimum of 2-6 hours per week to actively contribute to web development tasks, ensuring the consistent evolution and improvement of our online platforms. 

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
  • Demonstrate at least 2 years of experience in developing websites and proficiency in various Content Management System (CMS) platforms. 

Join us in creating a digital space that mirrors the heart of Sai Aashraya. Let your skills in website development be a catalyst for positive change. 

About this Area of Volunteering 
Volunteering opportunity – WEB DEVELOPMENT

In the realm of photo editing, volunteers play a crucial role in capturing and highlighting the inherent beauty of various Seva Projects and the people involved. As the saying goes, "Beauty lies in the eye of the beholder," and a photo editor possesses the skills to bring out this beauty through:
  • Keen attention to detail
  • A strong sense of aesthetics
  • Boundless creativity
  • A reservoir of patience

ESSENTIAL SKILLS
  • Volunteers in this role are responsible for:
  • Professionally editing event photographs for archival purposes
  • Enhancing photographs for websites, social media platforms, and videos
  • Conducting regular training sessions for both students and fellow volunteers

LEVEL OF COMMITMENT REQUIRED
A minimum commitment of 10 hours per month is expected from volunteers in this role to ensure the effective execution of photo editing tasks.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED
  • Prospective volunteers should demonstrate proficiency in:
  • Photo editing and manipulation software
  • Tools relevant to the position 

About this Area of Volunteering 
Volunteering opportunity – PHOTO EDITING

In today's dynamic and interconnected world, the power of visual communication cannot be overstated. As a Graphic Design volunteer at Sai Aashraya, you have the opportunity to leverage your creative skills to convey powerful messages, inspire engagement, and foster collaboration. 

ESSENTIAL SKILLS:
  • Conceptualize, develop, design, and produce engaging and compelling visuals, including concepts, images, and layouts, for various publications, media, e-communications, and service activities in desired formats.
  • Create impactful Signage Designs, distinctive logo/icon designs, eye-catching infographics, and dynamic website graphics for both print and digital platforms.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in industry-standard graphic design tools, specifically the Adobe suite, including Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign. 

LEVEL OF COMMITMENT REQUIRED:
  • Long-term volunteers: Dedicate a minimum of 2-5 hours per week to consistently contribute to ongoing graphic design needs.
  • Project-based volunteers: Commit a minimum of 10-20 hours on a single project, ensuring a focused and intensive effort to meet specific design objectives. 

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
  • Possess a high level of proficiency in graphic design tools and applications.
  • Showcase a portfolio or previous work demonstrating a strong understanding of design principles and effective visual communication. 

Join us in transforming ideas into impactful visuals that resonate with our mission and contribute to positive change. Your commitment and creative expertise will play a vital role in advancing the goals of Sai Aashraya and making a lasting impact on the people and communities we serve. 

About this Area of Volunteering 
Volunteering opportunity – GRAPHIC DESIGN

Step into the dynamic realm of Video Production and Editing at Sai Aashraya, where visual storytelling takes centre stage. If a picture speaks louder than words, imagine the impact of a video – delivering the essence of a matter in the shortest time with the utmost power.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS:
  • Demonstrate proficiency in video editing, bringing stories to life through compelling visuals.
  • Engage in creative concept development, storyboarding, and seamless execution.
  • Arrange and present video footage effectively, ensuring the intended message resonates with the target audience.
  • Showcase professional experience in creating videos and motion graphics under tight timelines.
  • Excel in Adobe Premiere, After Effects, Photoshop, and Color Grading.
  • Familiarity with special effects, 3D, and compositing for a multi-dimensional storytelling experience.
  • Develop titles and motion graphics using software programs like Adobe Photoshop and After Effects.
  • Minimum 2 years of professional experience in crafting product videos and motion graphics under fast turnaround times.

LEVEL OF COMMITMENT REQUIRED:
  • Special Video Projects: Dedicate a minimum of 10-20 hours per week for intensive involvement in specific video projects.
  • Ad-hoc Support: Provide 2 to 4 hours a week for occasional support in video production. 

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
  • Proficiency in Adobe Premiere, After Effects, Photoshop, and Colour Grading.
Join us in bringing stories to life, transcending barriers through the impactful medium of video. Your commitment and creative expertise will contribute to Sai Aashraya's mission, making a profound impact on the communities we serve.  

About this Area of Volunteering 
Volunteering opportunity – video production and editing

Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Social Media Management at Sai Aashraya, where your role is to infuse the digital space with positivity and inspiration, steering society toward happiness and harmony. 

ESSENTIAL SKILLS:
  • Apply strategic, out-of-the-box, and creative thinking to craft highly impactful and engaging social media campaigns.
  • Collaborate closely with the Project and Communications teams to develop social awareness strategies and campaigns.
  • Demonstrate proficiency across major social platforms, including YouTube, LinkedIn and other popular apps.
  • Act as the in-house expert on all things social media, staying abreast of the latest trends and technologies.
  • Manage online reputation and engage in social listening for the organization.
  • Respond effectively to customer feedback and mentions on social media, fostering a positive online presence.
  • Champion social analytics and data processing as a thought leader in the field.
  • Host external events, such as community events and competitions, to amplify the organization's impact. 

LEVEL OF COMMITMENT REQUIRED:
  • Dedicate a minimum of 1-4 hours per week to curate and manage social media content, ensuring a consistent flow of positive messaging. 

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
  • Showcase a deep understanding of social media platforms and strategies.
  • Proven experience in online reputation management and customer engagement.
  • Stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in social media.
  • Experience hosting events, community gatherings, or competitions.

Step into the role of a digital storyteller and community builder, where your commitment to spreading positivity will amplify Sai Aashraya's message of Love and Selfless Service across the digital landscape. Join us in making a meaningful impact one post at a time.

About this Area of Volunteering 
Volunteering opportunity – SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGEMENT

Embark on a rewarding journey in Volunteer Relations at Sai Aashraya, where your pivotal role involves fostering a supportive and enriching environment for our volunteers. As a bridge between our organization and the incredible individuals dedicating their time, your contribution will be the heartbeat of our volunteer community. 

ESSENTIAL SKILLS:
  • Recruit, support, and engage volunteers, ensuring a harmonious and fulfilling experience.
  • Responsively handle volunteer inquiries and applications with care and attention.
  • Facilitate orientation programs for new volunteers, warmly welcoming them into the Sai Aashraya family.
  • Update and meticulously maintain our volunteer database, a vital repository of our dedicated contributors.
  • Champion the happiness and fulfilment of current volunteers, addressing their needs and concerns.
  • Conduct necessary trainings, providing our volunteers with the tools to excel in their roles. 

LEVEL OF COMMITMENT REQUIRED:
  • Dedicate a minimum of 2-5 hours per week to actively contribute to the seamless functioning of volunteer relations. 

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
  • Your compassionate heart and willingness to make a positive impact in volunteer engagement. 

Step into the heart of Sai Aashraya's volunteer community, where your commitment to nurturing positive connections will echo in the meaningful contributions of each dedicated volunteer. Join us in fostering a spirit of unity and support as we work hand-in-hand towards our shared mission of Love and Selfless Service.

About this Area of Volunteering 
Volunteering opportunity – VOLUNTEER RELATIONS

Step into the heart of Sai Aashraya's growth and sustainability by becoming a vital part of our Partner and Patron Relations team. Our partners and patrons have been instrumental in fuelling our progress, and your role is to ensure their continued support through regular and meaningful engagement. 

ESSENTIAL SKILLS:
  • Identify new opportunities for collaboration and funding to foster ongoing growth.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in engaging with patrons and partners through various communication channels.
  • Maintain and manage a comprehensive database of patrons and partners, ensuring accurate and up-to-date records.
  • Display efficiency and responsiveness in addressing inquiries from patrons and partners, nurturing positive relationships. 

LEVEL OF COMMITMENT REQUIRED:
  • Dedicate a minimum of 1-4 hours per week to actively contribute to the success of partner and patron relations. 

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
  • Proficiency in the English language, facilitating effective communication in this international context. 

Join us in maintaining the bonds forged with Love that drive Sai Aashraya's successful Seva Missions enabling us to work towards realizing our vision for the future. Your commitment and engagement will play a crucial role in sustaining the projects that positively impact the lives of those we serve. 

About this Area of Volunteering 
Volunteering opportunity – PARTNER AND PATRON RELATIONS

Your role is pivotal in crafting impactful messages that resonate with our audience, requiring a deep understanding of their experiences and a commitment to articulating the organization's ideology and activities with clarity and creativity. Your commitment to crafting quality content will be a powerful tool in spreading awareness and making a positive difference.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS:
  • Harness a creative and effective writing style to spread awareness and engage audiences.
  • Demonstrate empathy towards the audience, understanding how your writing can impact their lives positively.
  • Clearly outline the organization's ideology and activities through unique, fact-filled, and engaging content.
  • Conduct thorough research to ensure the accuracy and depth of the content.

LEVEL OF COMMITMENT REQUIRED:
  • Ideal for those who can commit at least a few hours per week to contribute their creative writing skills.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
  • No formal qualifications necessary.
  • Proficiency in the English language is essential.

Step into the world of impactful storytelling and contribute to the narrative that defines Sai Aashraya's mission. Join us in weaving words that inspire change and foster connection. 

About this Area of Volunteering 
Volunteering opportunity – cREATIVE CONTENT WRITING

Join the heart of creative endeavours at Sai Aashraya by becoming part of the Creative Research team, serving as the backbone to various creative initiatives undertaken by the Trust. Your role is instrumental in sourcing information, content, and media assets that breathe life into videos, articles, and other publications, ensuring the Trust's message resonates profoundly.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS:
  • Proficient in sourcing and compiling information, content, and media assets.
  • Collaborate seamlessly with other creative teams to support the creation of impactful videos, articles, and publications.

LEVEL OF COMMITMENT REQUIRED:
  • Dedicate a minimum of 2-4 hours per week to actively contribute to the creative research endeavours.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
  • No formal qualifications are necessary.
  • Access to high-speed internet is preferable for efficient research and collaboration.

Step into a role that amplifies the impact of Sai Aashraya's creative work. Your commitment to creative research will be the catalyst for crafting compelling narratives that drive positive change 

About this Area of Volunteering 
Volunteering opportunity – CREATIVE RESEARCH

Join us in the pursuit of delivering content that not only captivates but also inspires action. Your commitment to content editing will be the linchpin in ensuring our message is clear, impactful, and reaches the hearts of our audience. 

ESSENTIAL SKILLS:
  • Collaborate closely with the Content Writing and Graphic Design teams to craft a positive overall reader experience.
  • Exhibit proficiency in proofreading, restructuring, and editing articles authored by content writers.
  • Demonstrate excellent writing and editing skills in English.
  • Screen, monitor, and approve content in various formats, including articles, images, videos, and audio clips.
  • Optimize published pieces using SEO guidelines for enhanced visibility. 

LEVEL OF COMMITMENT REQUIRED:
  • Dedicate a minimum of 2-4 hours per week to actively contribute to the refinement and optimization of content.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
  • Proficiency in the English language.
  • Editing or proofreading experience is desirable.

Join us in the pursuit of crafting content that captivates hearts and sparks positive change. 

About this Area of Volunteering 
Volunteering opportunity – CONTENT EDITING

Dive into the world of sound with the Audio Production and Editing opportunity at Sai Aashraya. Here, you have the unique chance to shape inspiring audio content and spread positivity to fellow citizens across the globe.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS:
  • Conduct Mixing and Mastering of recorded content using tools such as Logic Pro and Adobe Audition.
  • Edit audio to eliminate errors, ensuring adherence to scripts and a seamless listening experience.
  • Fine-tune elements like EQ, noise reduction, music balance, and overall audio quality.
  • Record and edit new content for videos, documentaries, podcasts, and more.
  • Possess a comprehensive understanding of editing tools, broadcasting systems, and audio setups.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in conducting live interview recordings. 

LEVEL OF COMMITMENT REQUIRED:
  • Dedicate a minimum of 2-5 hours per week to contribute to the creation of impactful audio content.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
  • Proficiency in tools such as Logic Pro or Adobe Audition.

Join us in crafting auditory experiences that resonate with hearts globally, spreading the message of Love & Selfless Service. Your commitment and expertise in audio production will be instrumental in uplifting communities and fostering a sense of connection worldwide.

About this Area of Volunteering 
Volunteering opportunity – AUDIO PRODUCTION AND EDITING

Embark on a transformative journey as an educator with Sai Aashraya, where your commitment to teaching becomes a catalyst for positive change. As a vital member of our teaching team, your impact extends beyond the classroom, influencing the minds and futures of students. 

ESSENTIAL SKILLS:
  • Collaborate closely with fellow educators and program coordinators to create a positive and enriching learning experience for children. 
  • Exhibit proficiency in lesson planning, instructional delivery, and effective classroom management.
  • Demonstrate excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage with students of diverse backgrounds. 
  • Screen, monitor, and evaluate student progress, providing constructive feedback for continuous improvement.
  • Adapt teaching methods to cater to various learning styles and ensure an inclusive educational environment.

TEACHING DETAILS:
  • Teach students from Grade I to 10, with each class consisting of 40 to 80 students.
  • Cover common subjects including English, Maths, one local language, Social Studies, and Science.
  • The primary medium of instruction is English, and knowledge of other languages such as Hindi, Kannada, and Tamil would be beneficial for our areas of work.

TEACHING OPPORTUNITIES:
  • In-person teaching opportunities: Volunteers are required to travel to our Breakfast Seva and other schools to teach students. Please contact us for more information.
  • Online teaching opportunities: Volunteers can teach students using an online collaboration tool such as Webex, Google Meet, Zoom, etc.

LEVEL OF COMMITMENT REQUIRED:
  • Dedicate a minimum of 5-10 hours per week to actively contribute to the educational development of students.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
  • Proficiency in the English language.
  • Teaching or tutoring experience is desirable but not mandatory. 

Step into a role where your passion for education transforms lives. Your commitment to teaching will be the cornerstone in shaping the educational narrative and bringing positive change to the communities we serve. Join us in the pursuit of nurturing young minds and building a brighter tomorrow.

About this Area of Volunteering 
Volunteering opportunity – TEACHING OPPORTUNITIES

Volunteering opportunity – Other Opportunities 
Sai Aashraya also welcomes volunteers from various other fields to contribute their expertise and make a meaningful impact across our institutions. 

Whether you specialize in IT, Accounts, Administration, Event Management, Counselling, Engineering, or other fields, your skills can help us enhance our systems, save costs, improve patient care, and ultimately, touch more lives. 

If you're passionate about making a difference, we encourage you to get in touch with us directly by phone or email. Your unique skills and dedication can play a vital role in furthering our mission and creating positive change.

Volunteering opportunity – other OPPORTUNITIES

VOLUNTEER

Join the Heartbeat of Our Family: Unite in Love and Service 
If you feel a calling to be part of Sai Aashraya's extraordinary mission—a saga of love and selfless service—we wholeheartedly invite you to join us in our Seva Projects

DINESH SWAMINATHAN

“Hands that serve are holier than the lips that pray”. Truly, Sai Aashraya is the epitome of this saying. It is with heartfelt gratitude that I fondly share some profound memories volunteering with Sai Aashraya which has shaped me into a better version of myself. I remember during one visit to India, I volunteered at the Bangalore medical camp. It was shocking to see many people with undiagnosed Diabetes, Anemia and Hypertension in the heart of Bangalore. One elderly man had an initial blood sugar reading of 400! On questioning further, he said he knew of his Diabetes but had not managed it previously as he did not have money for the check ups or medicines. On deciding to choose between meals for his family or medicines, he put his family before health. I was able to see first hand the impact of free medicines, consistent check ups and follow up of the patients that at a later camp, the same gentleman had much better controlled sugars while taking the free medicines provided regularly.

Similarly, while volunteering at one of the schools adopted by Sai Ashraya for breakfast seva, I was so inspired to see the creativity of these small children. They were making such wonderful projects and science experiments with such little available facilities. The same children I saw in 2016 are now thriving in higher classes, are graduates and have pursued employment in various fields to help support their families. Some even are volunteering alongside team Sai Aashraya themselves today! It is so fulfilling to see how the support through Nutrition, health, educare and social care can make an impact in every life. Seeing the impact of Sai Aashraya first hand, I can proudly say that it has taught me gratitude and appreciation for life. I realized that my problems or what I thought were problems were nothing compared to the issues faced every day by the people who don’t have opportunities.

HEART TO HEART

SOWMYA RAMANI

The foremost learning as being part of Sai Aashraya is that the act of serving is for self-transformation first; there has to be a sense of gratitude to the receiver for giving the opportunity to serve. Until a couple of years back, this concept was unknown to me. There was a sense of satisfaction and admittedly the sense of doer-ship. Sai Aashraya not only provided the opportunity to serve but also changed my perception of service; it has humbled me.
With very senior and devout volunteers leading the youth, Sai Aashraya provides varied learning experiences which are not limited only to service, the very act, but a gamut of other things. I have now seen from them what it is to be selfless, what it is to be in strict obedience, what it means to sacrifice, what it means to love, what it means to put others before you. In short, it is overwhelming.

I have personally felt that all the services in Sai Aashraya may be Medical camp or Leprosy service or breakfast service, have taken priority over personal agendas for the volunteers. This has been another significant learning for me. Service is not a hobby but it is as significant as personal endeavors. This, in my opinion, doesn't translate to contribution of substantial time; its quality that matters and not quantity. The result that it offers has to be experienced rather than told. Personally, being part of Sai Aashraya has been momentous in my personal transformation. I consciously remind myself that ‘known is a drop and unknown is an ocean’.

The entire experience leaves me only with one concluding thought “ I am fortunate beyond words and thoughts that I am part of Sai Aashraya and would always be grateful for the opportunities for service and spiritual upliftment”

HEART TO HEART

ARUNA NARAYANAN

- Volunteer, Experience during Christmas celebrations with residents of Sai Aashraya Adarsh Gram, Dharmapuri, in Sai Aashraya's Headquarters

In December 2019, I had the opportunity to visit Sai Aashraya in Bengaluru. It was the day of Christmas and people from a Leprosy village near Dharmapuri were invited to Sai Sannidhi, home of Sai Aashraya. Witnessing the leprosy patients getting dropped off by Sai Aashraya volunteers in their own personal cars, and few more volunteers welcoming them with roses to be seated among everyone else in the family, was a deeply moving experience.

An unforgettable moment was when I had the honor of feeding a venerable lady whose fingers were eaten by the dreadful disease long before the intervention of Sai Aashraya. Now they are all fully healed, due to the personal care and love showered by Team Sai Aashraya. However, she couldn’t eat herself. For every spoon I fed her, she would lovingly smile at me. She had the most beautiful and innocent smile I have ever seen. Tears welled up on my eyes and I felt the joy of my life at that moment. First time ever I had the feeling of seeing God in human form. Sharing this with lots of gratitude to Sai Aashraya for providing this opportunity.

HEART TO HEART

ROHIT RAO

On September 21, 2019, a small group of us in Dallas, Texas had a wonderful opportunity to personally hear several experiences from Sai Aashraya volunteers. We were filled with bliss just by listening to the several ongoing service efforts in India like the 24x7 Narayana Seva, the Sai Aashraya Adarsh Gram, the Medicare Camp and so on. While sharing these experiences, one volunteer stated, “It is not about how Seva helps others, but it is about how Seva helps you”. This changed my whole perspective about Seva. I wanted to personally taste this sweet nectar of bliss that the volunteers claimed was possible only by doing selfless service. I thought to myself, “Alas! How I wish I were in Bengaluru at this time”. Just as I was having this fleeting thought, one volunteer said, “We should start a breakfast service here in Dallas!”. Everybody gathered replied unanimously, “YES!”.

All of us huddled up and started brainstorming ideas, logistics, volunteer schedules and it was decided that every morning, we will serve a bowl of hot oatmeal with water and fruits to the less privileged on the streets. At that time, it was unimaginable for us to be doing this every day! We thought “What about work? What about early morning meetings? How will our bosses react if we go into work late? How will we do this with just 4 volunteers?” The questions and doubts were countless. But we had undermined the power of a selfless thought. Everything magically fell into place and last week we celebrated the 1-year anniversary of the breakfast Seva! This journey of love has been a totally transforming one for all the volunteers involved.

The first day of seva on September 22nd was perhaps one of the most memorable one. All volunteers reached promptly at 8:00AM at a predetermined spot. Just as we were serving food and fresh fruit juice, I noticed that the volunteers paid equal importance to interacting with the people, hearing their stories and experiences. Just then a volunteer said “Serving food is only a medium. The real goal is to interact with them, to know their problems and ultimately to help them get off the streets. No one deserves to be on the streets.” Just as we were walking, we noticed an old man in severe discomfort. After talking to him, he told us that he was having trouble breathing. Some of us quickly rushed to a nearby pharmacy store to get medication. Upon examining his pulse rate, it was clear that chances of him having a cardiac arrest were high and he needed to be taken to a hospital immediately. After a few minutes of giving him some medication, he started feeling much better and started walking. We dropped him at a nearby bus top and asked him to go to the hospital immediately. In the following days, the volunteers kept checking on him and below is a picture of him taken a week later. He was smiling again.

In my experience, the joy of Seva is the greatest joy there is. To see a smile on peoples’ faces after having a hot bowl of oatmeal with their favorite toppings is the greatest bliss. As days went by, we developed a strong connection with the people, seeing them as our own family. They now recognize us by our names and call us the “oatmeal gang” Our only prayer to God is to help us continue to be His humble instruments and continue this path of loving and selfless seva. Because in the end, ITS ALL ABOUT LOVE. 

HEART TO HEART

ADITYA KURULKAR

I got introduced to the young and inspiring founder of Sai Aashraya - Sai Prasad Venkatachalam back in 2017 through a close friend of mine; This is when Brother Sai Prasad was invited by the Indiaspora to address an esteemed and established set of people. Soon after I met Sai and learnt about this outstanding work for humanity that he had carried out in the Syrian border and in Bangalore, I could sense that this young boy was on a mission to carry out more and more selfless work to serve the needy. While Sai Aashraya’s work kept expanding in various parts of Bangalore, Dharmapuri and North East; I was left more inspired and awestruck by the service projects that were initiated to serve the remotest parts of our population. In 2018 Sai Prasad made us aware of the local service that we can carry out as well in Oakland through daily breakfast seva which inturn gave me an opportunity to learn how to serve our fellowmen and thereby got an opportunity to interact more with Sai Aashraya team in India as well. . While this continued; in 2020, we got a chance to serve for the very first time in the Bangalore Medical Camp which taught me how to serve and that the very first medication that is needed to cure anyone is nothing but Love which the volunteers of Sai Aashraya have been immensely showering to all their patients.  

Volunteering with the team in Bangalore during the daily breakfast seva and also during the Bangalore medical camp gave me a completely different perspective on how Sai Aashraya carries out their seva activities so diligently, lovingly and meticulously. Each and every volunteer of the organization truly follows the statement of “Love All, Serve All” and “Help Ever, Hurt Never”. It had been a transformational journey till then by volunteering with Sai Aashraya. 

In 2021, When I came to know about the upcoming super specialty hospital that was planned to be built by the team of Sai Aashraya, I was (and I am) very much excited and thought it would be great if I get a chance to be part of the IT and networking team of the hospital. As a pleasant surprise, this opportunity was shared with me by the team and my joy knew no bounds! I jumped at the opportunity to join the IT team with what ever little knowledge that I had. Working and volunteering with the Sai Aashraya’s core team and fellow volunteers itself was a life changing experience which taught me how to work silently, humbly and unitedly at the same time. Along with the guidance of all the senior members in the team we are continuing to build the most unique IT infrastructure team which will cater to the needs of our population. I am really grateful to the entire team of Sai Aashraya including the volunteers who have given me and my family to be a part of this initiative (and others as well) and we look forward to continuing our journey with them. At the same time I would like to profusely thank and congratulate the entire team of sheer dedicated founders, committee members and volunteers of Sai aashraya for their extraordinary service and wish them great success in the coming years. 

HEART TO HEART

MEGHA JOSHI

“Service is Love in Action”- You can truly experience this when you volunteer at Sai Aashraya.

It was in 2017 when I had the wonderful opportunity to personally hear the amazing work carried out by Sai Aashraya from the founder Sai Prasad Venkatachalam himself. This has completely changed the perspective of Seva for me. It is more for Self-transformation and Gratitude to the receiver for blessing us with the opportunity to Serve. 

During my visit to India in February 2020, I got the opportunity to attend Sai Aashraya’s Medical Camp in Bangalore. This was a two-day event, yes I call it an event - because it was indeed a festive atmosphere where the entire camp was organized, clean and built the previous day in just a matter of 4-5 hours. All the volunteers greet and welcome each and every one of them with a broad smile, be it patients, doctors or volunteers and that makes you feel cared and loved. Just being there for two days with such amazing people was a memorable and unforgettable experience. 

In 2021, I learnt that Sai Aashraya is going to build a Super Specialty Hospital in Bangalore in order to cater the needs of the patients. Later in 2022, I was blessed to visit the construction site and was amazed at the work that was being carried out so silently. On one of the days, our family had the opportunity to serve at one of the Breakfast Seva schools. As soon as we went, I was awed when I saw that all the kids assembled in the dining hall with utmost discipline and seated in an orderly manner. The most touching part was - the volunteers served each and every dish on the plate with a smile and by patting them gently on their back inquiring about them. We interacted with the kids where they took us around to their classrooms, sharing stories about their routine, discussing hobbies, singing songs etc. It was a moment filled with so much joy and gratitude conversing with the children in the school. 

I am very thankful and will always be grateful to the entire Sai Aashraya team for giving me this opportunity as this taught me how to practice humility and compassion through Service, the highest form of Spiritual Discipline. 

HEART TO HEART

RATHIPRIYA BHASKAR

Being part of Sai Aashraya since its inception has helped me to set myself up on a journey of self-discovery, to be more compassionate, loving and aware of the needs of others around me. Through the various projects, interactions and experiences, I have begun to appreciate the importance of time, the preciousness of life and continue to uncover the true meaning of service and the responsibility with which it needs to be carried out. I wish for my kids to be part of this beautiful journey, to imbibe the values of Sai Aashraya, to understand the ideals of service and the importance of it being a central part of their lives. I firmly believe that service to mankind is the way to invite love into one’s life and experience pure joy. My immense gratitude to Sai Aashraya for giving me an opportunity to experience the same and look forward eagerly to the many years of service ahead.

HEART TO HEART

SIVA CHANDRASHEKAR

I would like to share my thoughts on why I chose to donate a good amount to Sai Aashraya, while there are many non-profits that support the underserved people of India, the country where I hail from.

There are several reasons that stand out about Sai Aashraya. To learn and follow their core concept of Ceiling on Desires, where we reduce our “wants'' to get to a “needs” level, and apply this not only to money, but to every thought, word, and action, thereby use whatever we save in terms of money, time, energy, and more, for a good cause, was a moment of transformation for me. I realize that being part of Sai Aashraya is an opportunity that transforms not only the receiver, but more so the giver too.

In most non-profit organizations, typically 60% to 70% of contributions would reach the actual cause, and the rest goes towards employee salary, fundraising, travel, and other organizational expense. At Sai Aashraya, each penny that is contributed, only doubles up in value, because of their hard work. They receive goods and services at a huge discount, nay, at almost at cost price from several vendors they partner with; The entire org is run by volunteers and employees who work for free and perhaps take an honorary amount only for the sake of books. Every expense is from the volunteer’s pocket; The founders lead by example in all of these, and I see the rest of the team simply follow their footsteps.

I get inspired every time I listen to the story of Sai Aashraya and how the entire organization is run only out of Love for the underserved and with a sense of brotherhood of man. They provide the most quality offering for the most underserved, that too at their doorstep by finding such people in need. It has been a blessing for me to be part of Sai Aashraya’s noble cause and nothing less than soul satisfying experience for me.

HEART TO HEART

BHARADWAJ SWAMINATHAN 

The uniqueness of Sai Aashraya is the effort put in by the team to go to any length, to identify the most underserved living in the remotest locations of Bharat. Sai Aashraya caters to every situation uniquely by creating tailor made solutions to holistically serve the recipients through its well-defined pillars to holistically serve on a unique one-on-one basis as needed. 

In today’s world where everyone is actively pursuing name and fame, Sai Aashraya volunteers work silently without much fan-fare or marketing, and execute with zero wastage and nil unwanted admin expenses, by continuously focusing on conscious spending of every available resource, thus making every contribution to have a direct impact. Following the ideals of Sai Aashraya has helped to teach my children about the value of available resources and how to live consciously and as responsible global citizens.

HEART TO HEART

Varshni Iyer - Bay Area, USA

I have had the wonderful experience of being associated with Sai Aashraya since 2018. Being a Pediatrician and having completed my medical school in India, I have distinct memories of volunteering and participating in various medical camps. Truly, the impact, care and human relationships formed by Sai Aashraya through their various medical and nutrition endeavors go above and beyond the norm. My first volunteering opportunity with Sai Aashraya was in Bangalore right after my marriage in 2018. My husband had been a volunteer with them for many years and he introduced me to them. The entire organization welcomed me into their home with open arms and I immediately felt a strong familial connection. It is hard to describe that feeling in words but I knew it was where I belonged. That day, I went with several volunteers to a deaf and dumb school for underprivileged children in Bangalore. It was so heartwarming to see the abundant smiles all around in those precious children when a delicious meal was served. I learnt that Sai Aashraya has similarly adopted 9 underprivileged schools in Bangalore and provides nutritious breakfast to all those children. Previously, the principal of this particular school had mentioned that children were even fainting in the
morning assembly due to hunger. Now, after starting the day with a full stomach and also a full heart, it was so clear that these children were thriving. Such was the direct and beautiful impact I observed on my first day with Sai Aashraya. I am eagerly awaiting my next visit to India to be able to volunteer in many of the various medical camps they do throughout India.

Currently, I reside in the Bay Area in which one Virus Pandemic in turn lead to an even rampant pandemic of homelessness. As a local volunteer of Sai Aashraya’s USA team, I am happy to bring Sai Aashraya’s message of Love All, Serve All to those needing it in our own backyard. Every day for the last few years, different volunteers go to Oakland and have served a hearty, nutritious breakfast to the homeless population in the streets. This may seem very common in non-profit or volunteer programs, however, we also try and form a connection with those served by talking with them and finding out their needs. We have helped in finding housing, obtaining social security, creating resumes and aided in job searches to create self-sustainability and bring these folks out of the streets. Recently, these efforts have expanded to the homeless population in San
Francisco as well. I have personally seen in 2021 a young man with social and mental stressors which brought him to the streets be rehabilitated and reunited with his family by the wonderful volunteer team of Sai Aashraya USA. It has always been an ambition of mine to be involved in Global Health initiatives while I was pursuing my medical degree. I truly cherish and love the opportunities provided by Sai Aashraya to continue learning and expanding my medical enthusiasm by taking the goal of Healthcare for All to my motherland, India. I hope I can join the team often in their health, nutrition and social endeavors throughout the world. Jai Hind!

HEART TO HEART

BALA PADMANABHAN - BAY AREA, USA

Sai Aashraya – “Transforming Lives”
If we all get a chance to “Say what we Do and Do what we Say” that by itself is an inspiration for some of us going about our daily busy and mundane life. I am blessed to come across this extraordinary group of people volunteering for this organization called Sai Aashraya. First it was curiosity for me to find more on what they do, how they do and the space they operate in, to save, sustain, uplift and transform lives of people who are coming into their gambit from under privileged, from lack of awareness to reach out for help at right times, from people who will shine if given a helping hand to do best with little support in any form like food, education, medical needs. To make a “society wellness” it may not be enough just to help an individual or a few by giving charity we can afford. We, most of us in my opinion, always want to help someone - in some way but do not have the time to find the right cause or right organization at the right times perhaps. Few of us are blessed to find such good organizations doing selfless service to society. I am very blessed to come across Sai Aashraya which is a unique organization doing a phenomenal service in Food&Nutrition, Medicare, Educare, and Sociocare. For every need, Sai Aashraya works through its well-defined pillars and loving volunteers to cater specifically to the person to holistically take care of them on a unique one-on-one basis not just attempting to solve the current need rather helping to find a long-standing Transformation of Lives for the needy. I have had the opportunity to work closely with the Sai Aashraya team observing them and learning from them for many years now. There is no stone left unturned during the planning for a service activity to ensure that the recipients of the care get the highest quality servings; be it as food, medicines, or solution for any issue that hinders the peace or growth of the individual or community. The uniqueness of this organization is the effort put in by the team members to go to any length, neglecting their own personal needs to identify the most underserved. This fundamental definition is truly inspirational, and we see this getting executed very soulfully, selflessly, sincerely, and subtly. The unique heart-to-heart connection made by Sai Aashraya team with recipients of care; be it children or elders, gives the advantage to understand their real source of the issue. By focusing on prevention, research and outreach, Sai Aashraya has created a much healthier and morally responsible society, whose impact cannot be quantified or expressed in words. This is “A movement which is making these Transformations possible for a lot of people, to societies at large”

HEART TO HEART

volunteering frequently asked questions

volunteering frequently asked questions

How do I become a Volunteer at Sai Aashraya? 

To become a volunteer, please complete the Volunteering form. Our volunteer coordinators will reach out to you, initially via text or email based on your preference. Following this, a phone conversation or video conference will be scheduled to learn more about your skills and interests. If suitable opportunities are available, we will provide you with detailed information to kickstart your involvement. 

What if I am available only for a few days or a few hours per week? 

We appreciate any amount of time you can dedicate. If you are available for a short period each week and have a genuine interest in contributing, contact our volunteer coordinators. We will make every effort to identify an area or project where your time can be effectively utilized. 

What if I don’t have formal qualifications in the Seva Project or Areas I want to volunteer in? 

For most roles, practical experience and skills outweigh formal qualifications. If you possess the required skills for a particular task, even without formal qualifications, please reach out to us. We value enthusiasm and commitment. 

Is there any other document or contract to be signed? 

Yes, a 'Volunteer Agreement document' for commitment and confidentiality is required. You will need to sign each page of this document.

Do I need to travel to Sai Aashraya or the venue of the Seva projects for volunteering? 

No, volunteering can be done remotely from your place of residence. If on-site presence is necessary for specific tasks, we will coordinate with you to plan accordingly. 

Is there any age limit to join for Seva? 

No, there is no age limit. As long as you are passionate about serving and proficient in your area of work, you are welcome to join. 

Will I receive certifications, commendations, or monetary returns for the services offered? 

The intrinsic reward of Seva (Selfless Service) is its own recognition. We appreciate your dedication and commitment. 

Is knowledge of local languages (e.g., Kannada, Tamil, Hindi, or Monpa) mandatory?

Language proficiency is only necessary if the work is language-specific. If you have knowledge of these languages, please inform us, as it may help us better allocate tasks. 

Is there any minimum academic qualification required for volunteering? 

In general, there is no specific academic requirement. However, it may depend on the specific areas of interest for volunteering. 

Are there fixed timings for volunteering? 

For daily projects like Breakfast Seva held in schools, there are fixed timings. However, for remote projects, you may work at your convenience, ensuring that tasks or assignments are completed on time. 

For any more questions or queries, feel free to reach out to us by email at contact.saiaashraya@gmail.com or by phone at 1800-120-2724 (India)

Can I volunteer in more than one area?

Certainly! If you are proficient in multiple areas of interest, you can volunteer in as many as you wish. 

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