Grassroot Projects
#15 PLAY. SMILE. DREAM. GROW.
MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
Dear *{{Informal Name}}*,
Happy new year. This past year has truly highlighted the significance of community engagement in addressing what is essential. Your support has allowed us to provide crucial services to immigrant and refugee children within our local areas. By standing up, we demonstrate to our community members that they are valued. There are numerous ways to take action, and we will outline a few in our newsletter this month. Thank you for supporting Grassroot Projects and for your unwavering compassion.
Priya & Elizabeth
Co-Executive Directors
WATER SAFETY THROUGH SWIM EQUITY
Water safety is a critical life skill for children, especially during the summer. Swimming lessons build confidence, teach essential survival skills, and help prevent drowning—one of the leading causes of accidental injury among young children. Yet for many low-income immigrant families, cost, transportation, limited awareness, and required swim gear create real barriers to access.
To close this gap, Grassroot Projects has partnered with the YMCA in Indiana and Washington to sponsor children for swim lessons and provide each child with the necessary swim gear so they can participate safely and confidently. A gift of $150 sponsors one child for swim lessons—offering not just a skill for life, but safety, confidence, and belonging.
Click to read about Biba's story
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT: SUE MICHAEL
We are so grateful for Sue and the care she brings to our work. She is a thoughtful and dependable volunteer who is always ready to help in whatever way is needed—from knitting hats and purchasing clothing and books to assembling care packages and sorting inventory. Sue’s love for children shines through her dedication; last year, she generously volunteered at all six of our art classes at the Indy Art Center. Through her hands-on support, in-kind contributions, and recurring donations, Sue continues to show up with kindness, intention, and a true heart for our community.
LEARN MORE ABOUT VOLUNTEEERING
Nimisha Goyal Nandidni Subramanya
MEET OUR NEWEST BOARD MEMBERS
We are excited to welcome two new board members this month. Our co-founder, Nimisha Goyal, is now an official board member, joined by Nandini Subramanya.
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR BOARD MEMBERSOPPORTUNITIES TO STAND UP
Supporting immigrants right now involves direct action, such as donating to organizations like Grassroot Projects or to legal defense funds (e.g., National Immigrant Justice Center, NWIRP) and volunteering for, or providing translation, transportation, or mentorship. You can also advocate by opposing anti-immigrant policies, supporting local businesses, and directly supporting families with basic needs like food and housing.
Here are specific ways to support immigrant communities immediately:
- Accompany Immigrants: Serve as a supportive presence for court hearings or check-ins with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
- Counter Hostile Narratives: Use your voice to amplify that immigrants strengthen communities; write letters to local media and challenge anti-immigrant rhetoric.
- Protest and Organize: Participate in rallies and actions to defend immigrant rights.
- Support Local Businesses: Intentionally shop at and promote immigrant-owned businesses.
- Volunteer Your Skills: Offer services as a translator, interpreter, or tutor to help newcomers with language or education.
- Mentor Newcomers: Help immigrants navigate new systems, such as finding employment or understanding the school system.
COMING UP
February 14 #ToImmigrantsWithLove
February 17 Random Acts of Kindness Day
February 20 National Day of Solidarity with Muslim, Arab, and South Asian Immigrants
February 21 International Mother Language Day
SPREAD THE WORD
Help us reach more compassionate individuals by forwarding this newsletter to friends and family.
Together, we can create a more inclusive community.
Donate Today !
Legacy Giving
Consider leaving a lasting legacy by including Grassroot Projects in your will or estate plan. Your thoughtful gift will ensure immigrant children will get the support they need to become future leaders and lead happy lives.