KERRVILLE, Texas (Diya TV) — Sewa International and partner Indian American organizations received high praise from city officials for their leadership and service during the July 4 flash floods that swept through Kerrville. The city recognized its role in emergency response and long-term recovery during a ceremony on Dec. 9.
The recognition was presented by Kerrville city officials, the Kerr Economic Development Corporation, and the Kerr Together Long-Term Recovery Group. Officials credited Sewa International with helping stabilize operations during one of the city’s most challenging crises this year.
Kerrville Mayor Joe Herring highlighted the organization’s dedication. “This wasn’t just an emergency response — it was a ministry. Helping others is how we serve God, and Sewa International embodied that spirit every single day,” he said. “Their volunteers brought hope, structure, and humanity when our community needed it most.”
City officials recalled the strong presence of Sewa volunteers at emergency sites, particularly at Tivy Antler Stadium. Hundreds of volunteers managed traffic, coordinated logistics, and organized community members. “It was impossible to miss the sea of yellow T-shirts,” one official said, noting the volunteers’ visible and organized response.
“At a moment when we were overwhelmed and unsure how to manage the sheer scale of operations, Sewa stepped in and brought order, compassion, and unwavering commitment. That made all the difference,” the official added.
Sewa International worked closely with the Indo-American Charity Foundation (IACF), which contributed $50,000 toward flood recovery efforts. IACF representatives said their guiding principle is simple: “We live here, we give here.”
Pankaj Rana, president of IACF, emphasized the importance of teamwork. “The strength of our response came from unity. Partnering with Sewa International allowed us to break silos, combine resources, and make a meaningful impact quickly,” he said.
City officials also acknowledged that many volunteers traveled from Houston and San Antonio, arriving within hours of the disaster to provide immediate assistance. Several individuals received recognition for their direct, on-the-ground contributions.
Sewa International’s support extended beyond the initial emergency response. City leaders highlighted that the organization was “among the first to arrive and among the last to leave,” continuing its assistance well into the long-term recovery phase.
Sewa International is a U.S.-based nonprofit with chapters across the country. The organization focuses on disaster relief, education, and community development initiatives. Indian American organizations like Sewa International have played increasingly visible roles in disaster response in the United States, working alongside local authorities during hurricanes, floods, and other emergencies.
The July 4 flash floods in Kerrville caused widespread damage and created an urgent need for coordinated emergency response. Sewa International’s volunteers quickly filled critical gaps, demonstrating how nonprofit organizations can complement city services during crises.
The recognition by Kerrville city officials highlights the growing importance of community-based organizations in disaster relief efforts. Through collaboration, rapid response, and sustained support, these groups provide hope and stability to affected communities.
The work of Sewa International and its partner organizations demonstrates the power of community, unity, and volunteerism during times of crisis. Their efforts not only provided immediate assistance but also helped set a strong foundation for long-term recovery in Kerrville.
As disasters continue to challenge cities across the United States, the example set by Sewa International and the Indo-American Charity Foundation shows how local and national partnerships can make a meaningful difference.
