SAIVA

By: Shibhany Nandhakumar and Siya Dighe

This month, we are proud to highlight one of our remarkable teen volunteers, Siya Dighe who shares her experience with SAIVA. Siya Dighe has made a meaningful impact during her time with SAIVA, and her experience reflects the power of intergenerational service and the positive impact she made.

“South Asian International Volunteer Association has been much more than an organization for many volunteers. Since the very beginning, SAIVA has been successful in its intergenerational mission of keeping the stories of our elder’s alive today.

For me, SAIVA has taught me much more than school ever could, by giving me a sense of community and purpose.

The first time I volunteered for them was in August 2025, on Senior Day. That day was filled with games, laughter, and friendships that would last me until now.

Hearing the stories from decades ago from the beloved seniors of SAIVA, really allows us teen volunteers to empathize and appreciate everything that they’ve learned throughout their lives.

From gardening to Storytime with Grandparents, each volunteering opportunity has taught me something new.

But my favorite by far–was representing SAIVA at the Cedar Park Walk for Peace.

When I first went to the walk, I was honestly a bit intimidated. So many people from so many different causes and organizations were surrounding me, and being the only volunteer there really worried me if

I was capable of carrying SAIVA’s mission on my shoulders. Nonetheless, I began sparking so many conversations with the other meaningful groups that were at the walk about our organizations goals, how we could collaborate, and just stories about why we do what we do.

What I valued the most about this event was not the networks I could form for SAIVA, but releasing the common thread between all Austin nonprofits: the need to give back to each of our individual communities.

None of these experiences could’ve been possible without the wonderful team that runs SAIVA.

Thank you to Megha Ma’am, Lata Auntie, both the lotus and teen volunteers, and the many other board members of the organization.

Each one of them embraces SAIVA’s intergenerational message everywhere they go, and continue to create fulfilling experiences for each member.”

We are grateful for Siya’s energy, warmth, and commitment. SAIVA continues to make a positive impact in the community.

For more information about SAIVA or see how you can get involved visit saiva.org for more information!