Hindi USA Youth Volunteering Program Overview

The Hindi USA Youth Volunteering Program provides students with the opportunity to serve the community, develop leadership skills, and earn recognition through the Presidential Volunteer Service Award (PVSA). This policy outlines eligibility, roles, responsibilities, and expectations for youth volunteers and serves as a resource for parents, teachers, and students.

1. Eligibility

Youth volunteers must meet one of the following requirements:

Hindi USA graduates are eligible to serve as youth volunteers (preferred pathway).
Non–Hindi USA students may also be considered if they:
- Demonstrate advanced-level fluency in reading, writing, and speaking Hindi, and
- Either hold the Seal of Biliteracy in Hindi or have completed formal Hindi language courses through at least the 8th grade level (or equivalent).

Preference will be given to Hindi USA students, but qualified non–Hindi USA students who meet the above requirements may also join as youth volunteers.

2. Purpose of the Program

Create opportunities for students to learn responsibility, leadership, and teamwork.
Empower youth to serve as role models in their classrooms and community.
Provide a pathway for students to qualify for the Presidential Volunteer Service Award (PVSA) through verified volunteer hours.

3. Volunteer Hours and Logging

Youth volunteers receive 2.5 hours of volunteer credit per week for their service.
All hours must be logged weekly in the Hindi USA LMS.
With consistent participation in classes and events, students may earn 100+ hours in a year, qualifying for recognition under PVSA.
Hours from other organizations may be submitted to Hindi USA with valid documentation for verification.

4. Access and Responsibilities in LMS

All youth volunteers receive access to the Hindi USA Learning Management System (LMS).
Volunteers may log in as youth volunteers and view student information for the class to which they are assigned.
Access must be used only for class-related purposes; sharing or misuse of student information is strictly prohibited.

5. Training and Workshops

Hindi USA periodically conducts mandatory training/workshops for youth volunteers at local and national levels.
Attendance is required for orientation, skill development, and leadership training.

6. In-Person Attendance & Location (as of September 2025)

Students are expected to attend Hindi USA in-person school and volunteer on site.
Current operating location: 725 Weedman Rd., Ballwin, MO 63011 – CEC building, upstairs Yoga Hall.
Volunteers are expected to come every Friday and contribute to their community by volunteering with Hindi USA.
If a volunteer cannot attend, they must inform their teacher or school coordinator in advance and arrange how to support the class that week.
Note: Location, day, or timings may be updated by the chapter; families should follow official chapter communications for any changes.

7. Role of Youth Volunteers in Class

Youth volunteers are expected to take initiative, think like teachers, and model leadership. Responsibilities include:

Asking teachers for lesson plans in advance and coming prepared.
Speaking only in Hindi during class to improve their own skills and encourage students.
Leading prarthna, taking attendance, and assisting with setup/cleanup.
Checking homework and assisting teachers in reviewing/correcting student work.
Escorting younger students as needed.
Supporting lessons by running activities, games, crafts, projects, and stories.
Helping with practice tests, proctoring, and assisting students who need additional help.
Using educational tools such as Kahoot, KidsLipi, and puppet shows to engage students.
Distributing snacks each week to all Hindi USA students (snack distribution generally happens after classes are finished).

8. Role of Youth Volunteers in Extracurricular Activities

Youth volunteers may contribute to events and projects, including:

Kavita Paath Pratiyogita – Organizing practices and preparing props.
Hindi Mahotsav – Supporting practices, preparing props, and helping peers review.
Karmbhoomi/Indradhanush Magazine – Writing or editing articles.
Festivals (Diwali, Holi, Sankranti, Navratri, etc.) – Contributing ideas and assisting in celebrations.

9. Expectations and Conduct

Share contact information with the teacher.
Inform the teacher or school coordinator in advance if absent.
Do not use cell phones during class.
Spend 5–10 minutes before or after class coordinating with the teacher on how to assist.
Demonstrate maturity, responsibility, and commitment to the program.

10. Recognition and Awards

Hindi USA is authorized to verify and certify hours for the Presidential Volunteer Service Award (PVSA).
National Honor Society (NHS) Verification – Students may request their verified volunteer hours from Hindi USA for NHS applications, and Hindi USA will provide documentation as needed.
Annual Youth Appreciation Event – All youth volunteers are recognized each year for their contributions and service to Hindi USA.
Bharat Yatra Program – Eligible and dedicated youth volunteers may apply for this special Hindi USA initiative, where selected students travel to India with other school youth and demonstrate their Hindi proficiency and cultural understanding.
Hindi USA Alumni Network – Youth volunteers completing the program will be eligible to be added to the Hindi USA alumni network, allowing them to connect with peers across the USA for mentorship and networking.

11. Commitment to Community and Learning

Volunteers should view the program as an opportunity to:

Strengthen Hindi speaking, reading, and writing, and build leadership skills.
Think like a teacher and develop communication skills.
Contribute meaningfully to the Hindi USA community while growing personally.

12. Ready to Volunteer?

If you are ready to volunteer with Hindi USA, please email the following details:

Full name
Email address
Mobile number (student or parent)