Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation USA Marks 25 Years
The three-day gathering brought together nearly 200 supporters from the United States, India and Canada to review the organization’s work, recognize volunteers and donors, and discuss youth engagement and future initiatives.
RALEIGH, N.C. — Nearly 200 supporters of Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation USA gathered in Raleigh, North Carolina, September 25–27 for the organization’s 2026 national conference, marking its 25th anniversary.
The gathering brought together representatives from Ekal’s 10 U.S. regions, organizational leaders from India and supporters from Canada to reflect on the foundation’s work in rural India and discuss future priorities.
Each U.S. region presented key milestones from Ekal’s 25-year history, highlighting the contributions of donors and volunteers.
A key focus of the conference was Ekal Yuva Udaan, an initiative aimed at engaging young people in volunteer service, leadership and community development. Programs under the initiative include a Bharat Exchange Program, which gives high school students opportunities to visit Ekal villages in India, and a medical internship program that introduces college students to rural healthcare initiatives, including preventive care and telemedicine.
The conference also highlighted the Adish and Asha Jain Scholarship Program, which began a pilot phase supporting two students. Organizers said they plan to expand the program to 10 students next year.
The event included the presentation of Ekal National Youth Excellence Awards in five categories: Rising Seva, Fundraising, Community Impact, Bharat Setu and Legacy of Seva. The awards recognized young people for their contributions and achievements.
On Saturday evening, the organization held a gala marking its 25th anniversary. Donors and volunteers from the Southeast region were recognized for their contributions. The program also included music and dancing featuring performers Swati Girglani and Pranav Pandya.
Beyond the anniversary celebrations, the conference provided an opportunity for participants from different regions and countries to meet, exchange ideas and discuss future initiatives.
Founded on the principle of expanding educational opportunities in rural India, Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation USA supports programs intended to improve access to education and other community services. The conference marked 25 years of the organization’s activities and provided a forum for supporters to discuss its future priorities.
