We interviewed one of our first supporters, Monika Goyal, a holistic healer based in Mountain View. She has been a great supporter since the founding of SOLWW. At the meditation meet-ups she hosts every week, Monika would share and encourage her friends and clients to make small donations to help support the causes of SOLWW. With the generous and active support of her meditation group, they have been bringing impactful changes to the minority Chakmas in India.
Tell me how you first got involved with the organization.
I have known Dana for a few years as she has attended some of the classes I’ve taught. She has openly shared stories about her trips to different countries, and the many needy children she has met. I find her passion and focus in making a difference in her own little way absolutely moving.
What attracted you to the cause?
Knowing that SOLWW’s priority is education for needy children made it easy for me get on board. I believe that there will be no change unless we help and do something. We all have something to offer –no matter how little or insignificant we think it is. I wish I can help all the children but if we all work together to do our part, we can; one child at a time.
When you last made a donation, how did that make you feel?
It made me wish that I can give more – and continue to do even more! We have been given so much, especially here in Silicon Valley that we can actually share as much as we can.
What motivates you to stay involved?
Seeing Dana’s passion, pure heart and genuine desire to help children motivated me to do my share. I know that with proper education these children will become future leaders to lead the charge for change.
In your opinion, what is the most important work that this organization does?
I am a firm believer that helping the underprivileged to get proper education is the catalyst for change.
What do you hope the organization will achieve in the near future?
I fervently hope that SOLWW will continue to grow and expand their reach not only in India but to other villages and cities all over the world.
Is there anyone in your life that played a role in providing inspiration to your involvement?
I grew up in a family where helping others anonymously is the norm. I remember my grandfather built a school in his village where his own father (my great grandfather) also built a public road to make it easier for everyone to travel from one village to the next. I want to make it clear that I did not come from a well to do family, but we were raised to share whatever we had to others and to expect nothing in return.
Do you have an anecdote about the cause that moved you?
One particular story that I stood out is about Talash. Even with all the adversities he faced in life, his determination to go to school was inspiring. The amazing thing is that this passion for education applies to most of the people in the village. All they need is the opportunity and an extra boost of a helping hand.
What would you tell someone who is thinking about donating to SOLWW?
I would like everyone to know that this is a beautiful cause, led by a beautiful woman inside and out. Let’s join our hands together in making this world a better place by supporting SOLWW – one child at a time.
Do you have a message to share?
Share yourself, spread your love and your inner self. Reach out to anyone who needs help. Remember, that giving enriches us rather than depletes us; and it makes us whole. Give in whatever way you can –not only with money, but with your time and anything you can do to make a difference.
