Hindu-Americans launch innovative programmes at WH conference

Hindu-Americans, participating in a conference hosted in partnership with the White House, have launched innovative programmes aimed at harnessing the tradition of 'seva' and charities imbibed in their religion.

"Next Generation Seva Leaders" and "My Thali" are among the two prominent programmes announced during the just concluded "Dharmic American Future: Seva, Innovation and Tradition" conference.

The conference was organised by the Hindu American Seva Charities (HASC) in partnership with the White House Office of Public Engagement, Office of Faith Based and Neighborhood Partnerships, and President's Interfaith and Community Service Campus Challenge.

Attended by eminent Hindu-Americans from across the country, the meeting from three day conference beginning August 2 was addressed by top White House officials.

The meeting among other things decided on working on interfaith community building especially focused on bringing together Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Muslim, Christian and Jewish faith leaders to share views and form cooperative partnerships.

"Within 24 hours of our conference the attack on a Sikh gurdwara took place in Wisconsin; Next General Seva Leader youth quickly mobilised to show support for the Sikh community," Bhargava said.

"The entire HASC team reached out to raise awareness and stand in solidarity. This attack emphasises the need for support for and outreach from all Dharmic-American communities," she said.

Prominent speakers included Sonal Shah who shared her insights in creating the White House Office of Social Innovation as it first Director and Asim Mishra discussed ways to engage with Corporation for National and Community Service where he serves as Chief of Staff.

Tina Tchen, Chief of Staff to First Lady Michelle Obama brought the President's message of support and recognition of the community's efforts to serve the country.