CALIFORNIA, USA—Inspired by the Oak Creek sangat’s Chardhi Kala 6K Memorial Walk/Run, the Sikh Coalition organized our 4th annual National Day of Seva, in remembrance and solidarity for those who were injured and killed on August 5, 2012, in Oak Creek, Wisconsin.
This year, Sikhs and non-Sikhs across 16 cities in the nation participated in 18 service projects while embodying the spirit of Chardi Kala (eternal optimism). “From Oak Creek to Charleston to Orlando, these seva projects remind all Americans that we are strong and united in our efforts to build bridges and combat hate across our country,” said Harjit Kaur, Sikh Coalition Community Development Manager.
In California, sevadaars (volunteers), came together to lead nine projects in seven cities, which included donations to food pantries, distribution of food to the homeless community in partnership with SEVA: Selfless Service, and projects with Habitat for Humanity. In other states, sevadaars donated supplies to local refugees, participated in book donations, distributed food to homeless communities, donated food items to shelters and pantries, participated in a park cleanup, and packaged meals with Hands Against Hunger. In Canada, sevadaars participated in Day of Seva as well, partnering with SEVA: Selfless Service to serve approximately 250 meals to combat a wave of homelessness in British Columbia.
“Day of Seva is a community led initiative. The dedication and generosity of our selfless volunteers, and the determination and resilience of those we served is truly inspiring,” said Harjit.
