Faith-Based Groups’ Role in Community Development

Anju Bhargava and Cultural Affairs Officer Ragini Gupta with students in a group discussion at Stella Maris College.

Inter-religious partnerships and faith-based groups contribute greatly to community development and civic society in the United States.  Ms. Anju Bhargava, President Barack Obama’s most recent appointment to the White House Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnership Advisory Council, underscored the long history of inter-faith dialogue and cooperation in the U.S., during her visit to Chennai on August 24.  She noted that this cooperation leads to greater understanding between members of different faiths as they work together toward common goals and to develop their communities.  Ms. Bhargava works to enhance the capacity and recognition of American Hindu, Sikh, Jain, and Buddhist organizations in the social service arena, and encourages them to institutionalize their service, or “sewa,” to the community.  Her role on the President’s Advisory Council is key to those efforts.  The White House Faith Based and Neighborhood Partnership Council, which has both religious and secular leaders as its members, acts as a resource for non-profits and community organizations looking to meet society’s social service needs.  While in Chennai, Ms. Bhargava spoke with college students and a wide range of community leaders in programs supported by the American Consulate General-Chennai, Stella Maris College, and Harmony India, among others.

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