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No matter how successful you become in life, if you grow up from humble beginnings it sticks with you. Experiencing struggles early in life is a foundation that keeps you humble and grounded — and it also makes you generous with your gifts later in life. This is the case with Yad Senapathy, a globally celebrated force in the Project Management arena and founder and CEO of the Project Management Training Institute (PMTI).
Yad grew up in an Indian city with supportive parents who catered to his American Dream. Although they were considered poor, they worked hard and instilled that work ethic into Yad. They told him he-could do anything he wanted if he got a good education and focused on his dreams.
And his parents were right. After completing his undergraduate degree in Engineering in India, Yad received a full scholarship to further his education at Kansas State University. His dream had come true. He would travel to the United States and continue to study Engineering and later go on to be one of the premier Project Management experts in the world.
But all of this success has not changed Yad at his core and made him forget his difficult upbringing. He continues to give back to his adopted hometown of Dallas community and his native India, which still holds a special place in his heart. In 2016, Yad and his wife Shobha founded the Yad and Shobha Senapathy Foundation to recognize and promote responsible entrepreneurial philanthropy because they understand how important it is to give back. And this venture is not their only charitable cause.
In these most uncertain times, it is important to give what you can to help others because you never know when you will be the one in need. As we approach the National Day of Giving on December 1, 2020, Yad has shared a shortlist of the charitable organizations he personally contributes, which could also use your help this holiday season.
North Texas Food Bank
Yad has worked with the North Texas Food Bank (NTFB) in Plano, TX, for many years, donating time and more than 200,000 meals. Every dollar donated to NTFB provides access to three-healthy meals for hungry North Texans, and 95 percent of every dollar goes-directly to hunger relief programs. These contributions give food to children, seniors, and families. Information on donating is on their website, along with other vital details about their worthwhile charity.
VT Seva: Volunteering Together in Service
The VT Seva organization is another worthwhile charity Yad and his wife support. It has thousands of volunteers in centers across the United States that work to rebuild and restructure underprivileged and underserved communities. Each location’s main focus lies in providing a high quality, free education and food for tribal students and the visually impaired in need. The organization also provides critical medical testing such as cancer screenings and other medical services offered at medical camps. VT Seva also utilizes its thousands of volunteers in relief efforts when natural disasters strike.
Children’s Medical Center — Dallas
Over the years, Yad and his wife have given generously to the Children’s Medical Center in their hometown of Dallas. The hospital is-always in need of volunteers and takes donations of toys, activity kits, school supplies, craft items, and other educational and recreational items. Children’s Medical Center has volunteers and contributors at many levels: individuals, organizations, and companies. Visit their-website to see how you can get involved.
Epilepsy Foundation
The Epilepsy Foundation exists to increase awareness and change the conversation around epilepsy, so the people affected can improve their lives. With care, advocacy, research, education, and new therapies, more people can understand the condition and support people afflicted with it and their caregivers. The foundation believes more volunteers and more donations are valuable assets to accomplishing their mission and saving lives. You can find information on how you can help on their website.
- Mark’s School of Texas
- Mark’s School of Texas is a college preparatory institution for young men that prepares them for assuming leadership and responsibility in a competitive and changing world. As a private school, St. Mark looks to donations and contributors who invest in the values they teach and the young men they produce. The Senapathys have made St. Marks one of their most beloved beneficiaries over the years, helping to ensure students receive an excellent education and superior moral direction. More information about St. Mark’s School of Texas is available on their website.