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The desire to help others is a fundamental part of human nature. Although the world is full of challenges, from natural disasters to poverty and inequality, it is reassuring when we see that many people are still willing to join strengths and go above and beyond to make a positive difference.
One such organization is UNITED SIKHS: an international, non-profit, non-governmental, education, human development, and advocacy organization. Starting out in 1999 as a small project in Queens, NY, the founding members wanted to give a helping hand to local immigrant communities.
UNITED SIKHS’ first project was to organize ESL classes for immigrants pouring into the country. They provided a number of resources so that those taking the classes could acclimate to their new environment more quickly. They launched computer literacy classes and then expanded to an education center for the children of immigrants who could not afford babysitting services.
One of the organization’s founders, Mr. Hardayal Singh, explains: “Our mission was very simple. It’s to be the 911 for minority communities, particularly those who are disadvantaged, who are voiceless and in need.”
Twenty-four years later their mission stayed the same but is implemented on a much greater scale—globally. Through their unwavering commitment to making a difference, UNITED SIKHS has inspired countless others to join the fight for a more compassionate world; they now have the largest number of registered volunteers.
Over time, they opened offices in multiple countries around the globe. “We are registered in 10 countries, but we have every intention of expanding even further,” Mr. Singh says. As for the operations, brave volunteers are being sent daily to far-flung corners of the world where they provide relief to both war and natural disaster-struck regions with their biggest operations currently being in Ukraine and Turkey. Amongst the courageous and selfless volunteers are young women who also participate in all the same volunteer activities as adults. A group of youth volunteers (Prabhleen Kaur, Jasleen Kaur and Daler Kaur) recently accompanied United Sikh’s president Balwant Singh and the governor of New Jersey to Ukraine. “The young volunteers, themselves, and their parents were very brave to send them to a war zone. Programmes like these prepare young people to become future leaders”, he says. Too often children are sheltered from the realities of such situations but it is important for them to understand the consequences of war and the enormity of its impact on civilian life.
“The UNITED SIKHS volunteers put their lives in danger every day”, Mr. Hardayal Singh says. “Still, that doesn’t deter us from our goal. In spite of the dangers, the volunteers continue to help and save lives, putting others’ needs ahead of their own.”
Mr. Singh himself recently visited Ukraine too together with New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy. They worked along with volunteers on distributing food and medical supplies to the local populace. Simultaneously, many volunteers have been scattered across the country through the Tactical Medicine Program.
“The program is designed for people who live in the border areas of Ukraine. Volunteers are showing them how they can protect themselves and others and give first aid in situations where quick action can save lives,” Mr. Singh shares. “Together, our volunteers have saved more than 1200 lives through the ‘train the trainer’ programs.”
Through their commitment to equity and diverse skills, UNITED SIKHS have become a beacon of hope for communities in need worldwide. Besides the field skills they selflessly use for the greater good, their volunteers are also trained to ensure the most effective use of resources.
“Every member is taught a specific set of skills related to finance management and how and where to procure supplies, such as water, tents, food, and hygiene products, focusing on meeting the diverse needs of those they aim to help,” says Mr. Singh.
Despite their tremendous success, the challenge of financing has persisted since United Sikhs’ inception. As a non-profit foundation that prioritizes meeting the unique needs of those they serve, United Sikhs rely heavily on donations to keep their mission going.
“We wouldn’t be where we are today without the generous support of our donors,” Mr. Singh emphasizes. “Our countless successful missions are proof enough that no donation will go to waste, but we still need additional support as we are fighting an ongoing battle.”
UNITED SIKHS’ work, efforts, and achievements stand as a testament to their faith in this vision. Those who relate to the cause and want to become a part of the change can join the fight as volunteers or by making a donation. Remember, no action is small when it comes from the heart.
