What does “Seva” mean?

Seva is derived from Sanskrit, meaning 'service.' It refers to the selfless service of others, performed without any expectation or reward.

What does Team Seva do?

We mobilize resources to improve the lives of children in India's most underserved communities. We achieve this by partnering with proven NGOs on the ground that facilitate projects and provide continuous real-time updates on resources.

Which underserved communities does Team Seva work with in India?

In the near future, our focus is on supporting numerous communities located in two distinct regions of India: Gujarat and Punjab. The projects in Gujarat are situated in the largest slum in the state, around the Gandhi Ashram in Ahmedabad. Additionally, we allocate resources for education in the communities surrounding Chandigarh, located in the larger state of Punjab.

How is Team Seva funded?

We’re funded by friends, family, and supporters who believe there is good in the world. “Friend”raising is what we like to call it. We are also setting up a platform that will facilitate corporate matching and serve as an avenue for social responsibility for small to mid-size companies.

How is my donation utilized?

Currently, 100% of all donations are directed towards projects on the ground. There are no administrative fees or other expenses deducted prior to funding projects. In the future, as Team Seva expands, a small portion of donations may be allocated to administrative work.

Is my donation tax deductible?

Team Seva is a 501(c)(3) with the IRS. We are an established non-profit with all of the proper filings in place. Currently, we are waiting for the IRS to stamp the final paperwork hopefully by August 1, 2014. Once stamped, all donations received after April 1, 2014 will be tax deductible.

What proportion of donations is used to fund administrative needs?

Zero. Team Seva officers do not collect salaries and volunteer their time and resources. All we collect are bright smiles and big hugs.

How can I get more involved? How can I volunteer?

Email us at info@teamseva.com or contact us via our contact page to learn how you could become more involved. Subscribe to our newsletter and learn more about our upcoming service trip in December 2023. Reserve your limited spot today!

Can I send clothing, books, materials to these communities?

There will always be a need for additional support. Email us at info@teamseva.com to learn more about sending materials directly to specific communities.

Is Team Seva affiliated with a government or religious organization?

Team Seva is not affiliated with any other organizations. We are, however, supporters of other organizations such as: Manav Sadhna, rHope, Empty Hands Music, and more. See our Partners page for a full list of organizations.

What is the qualitative difference in life for underserved children in India vs. here in the U.S.?

In the U.S., underserved children are guaranteed public schooling and assistance through various government-sponsored programs. However, in India, children do not have the same opportunities to access a quality education. Many of these underserved children come from families that have not received an education, and their parents may belong to a low caste, which further acts as a barrier to schooling and social acceptance.

What major challenge in service or assistance does Team Seva intend to address?

Team Seva works to improve the accessibility of education for underserved children in India by providing resources and support to NGOs that work to educate and care for these children.