BY JYOTHSNA HEGDE
Atlanta, GA, October 1, 2024: The lush green landscape of Mary Alice Park in Cumming, GA buzzed with activity as community members paced around with trash bags in an effort to clean up the park on September 15, 2024. The service activity was initiated by Sewa International, Atlanta Chapter in Partnership with AmeriCorps for National Day of Service and Remembrance. Sewa International has organized 49 events such as this across 17 Chapters nationwide.
The Commemoration ceremony was graced by guests of honor including Georgia Insurance and Fire Safety Commissioner, John F.King, Fire Chief of Forsyth County, Barry Head, Senator Shawn Still, Forsyth County Commissioner Alfred John and guest speaker Dr.Sreeni Gangasani, cardiologist and Chairman, Georgia Composite Medical Board.
Each of the guest speakers recounted their memories of the fateful day. As Fire Chief, Head in particular, related to the sacrifices of the fire fighters and their families. The speakers also acknowledged the community for coming together to make a meaningful impact and honor the spirit of unity and resilience to commemorate the tragic events of 9/11.
“The 49 events being organized across the country demonstrate the power of collective action and the importance of giving back to our communities. Together, we can honor the memory of those we lost on 9/11 and ensure that their legacy of unity and service continues to inspire future generations,” The Atlanta chapter organizers said in a joint statement.
In the weeks leading up to September 11th, Sewa International’s chapters have been deeply involved in various environmental activities. These initiatives, aimed at fostering community engagement and environmental stewardship, include Park Cleanup, Tree Planting and Mulching, Recycle Drives, Educational Sessions, and Green Acts and Environmental Expositions. “On or around September 11th, all 17 chapters will host special commemoration events to honor the memory of those who lost their lives in the 9/11 attacks. These events will serve as a reminder of the strength and resilience that defines America and the importance of coming together in times of crisis,” Srikanth GundavarapuVP, Fund Development, SI said.
Sewa International (SI) operates in 26 countries. In the United States, SI has 42 chapters, Atlanta being one of the larger chapters.” In Atlanta, we focus on three things – Education, we offer free online tutoring for underprivileged kids Monday through Friday, and we also offer enrichment program on Saturdays, Healthcare -the need is dire, partnering with the Georgia Association of Physicians of Indian heritage, we run clinics on first and third Saturdays of every month. Lastly, we focus on food insecurities. We try to do rice, food distribution once a month, typically, at the Global Mall,” Raj Radhakrishnan, VP Sewa International, Atlanta chapter said
“We are about 5000 volunteers strong throughout the country. The three areas we focus on are disaster relief, Family Services and volunteers. We have the lowest expense ratio, which is three and a half percent. So every dollar that comes in actually goes back into serving communities,” Gundavarapu noted.
“It was wonderful to see our community members gather on a Sunday morning to show their commitment to this cause,” Radha Katta, Atlanta chapter volunteer/organizer said.
For more information about Sewa International and its ongoing 9/11 projects, you may visit
