Virginia Student Nonprofit Brings Indian Artisan Products To US Communities
India-West News Desk
OAKTON, VA – Serving Society Global Foundation, a youth-led nonprofit with seven youth chapters, is bringing handcrafted products made by marginalized artisans in India to stores, temples, festivals and community events across the US.
Founded in 2024 by high school student Dev Rai, the organization works with artisan groups such as Sampoorna Bamboo Kendra near Nagpur, Maharashtra, and Bansi Emporium in Indore, Madhya Pradesh.
The artisans produce eco-friendly and culturally significant products, including bamboo rakhis, jewelry, earrings, coasters, hair clips, candle holders, tote bags, home décor and household items. Many of the products use bamboo and other sustainable materials as alternatives to plastic and mass-produced goods.
Serving Society markets and sells these India-made products through eight U.S. partner locations, including Patel Brothers in Ashburn, Lotte Plaza Market in Chantilly, Rajdhani Mandir and SV Lotus Temple in Fairfax. Student volunteers also present and sell the products at cultural festivals and community events.
The partnerships allow Indian artisan products to reach customers during their regular shopping, worship and community activities. Indian American families can purchase products connected to their cultural heritage, while customers from other backgrounds are introduced to Indian craftsmanship and sustainable design.
“Our goal is to give talented artisans access to a larger and more consistent market while helping customers in America understand the cultural and personal stories behind their work,” Rai said. “Each purchase supports an artisan while also promoting Indian culture and environmentally responsible products.”
Serving Society has sold more than 900 handcrafted products and raised more than $15,000 for over 400 marginalized artisans and related community initiatives.
The organization has expanded to seven youth chapters, led by 18 youth leaders, and has engaged more than 300 student volunteers through SEWA DC. Students learn about the artisans and products before organizing sales, communicating with customers and explaining the cultural significance of the items.
Rai said the youth chapter model allows students in different communities to support artisans while gaining experience in leadership, entrepreneurship, marketing and public service.
The organization’s work creates an economic connection between artisans in India and customers in the United States. It also gives youth a direct way to remain connected to their heritage while supporting communities in India: https://serving-society.org/.
