Strengthening Communities in the United States: Sehgal Foundation’s Enduring and Powerful Impact

While Sehgal Foundation is widely recognized for its transformative work with S M Sehgal Foundation across rural India, many are not aware that its roots, and critical parts of its mission, lie within the United States.

From its founding in Des Moines, Iowa, the organization has embraced a global vision to strengthen communities by supporting local organizations, nurturing youth leadership, promoting clean water awareness, advancing sustainability, and building bridges across cultures.

Built on Community Values

Established in 1998 by Dr. Suri Sehgal and Mrs. Edda Sehgal, Sehgal Foundation in the US was created as a private philanthropic organization committed to social good. While the foundation’s team works alongside communities in the US to raise funds for S M Sehgal Foundation’s work in India each year, the foundation also provides funding to nonprofit organizations that are working to strengthen communities, expand opportunities for youth, and promote environmental sustainability within in the US.

Dr. Suri Sehgal often reminds us, “True development is not about charity—it is about enabling all people to realize their own potential and become partners in creating a better future.”

Youth and Community Development

Through grants and partnerships, Sehgal Foundation supports initiatives that promote youth leadership, provides safe spaces for vulnerable youth, encourages civic engagement, and strengthens inclusive communities in the Midwest such as YSS (https://yss.org/). The foundation also provides funding for meals for underprivileged children in local schools.

Clean Water, Biodiversity, and Environmental Stewardship

Sehgal Foundation supports organizations advancing clean water initiatives, environmental conservation, sustainable resource management, and community education. A notable partnership is a collaboration with the Missouri Botanical Garden (https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/plant-science/plant-science/william-l-brown center) to support biodiversity conservation and environmental awareness, reflecting the founders’ ongoing commitment to protecting the planet’s natural environment.

Sustainable Agriculture and Global Food Security

In alignment with its mission to strengthen rural livelihoods worldwide, Sehgal Foundation works closely with the World Food Prize Foundation(https://www.worldfoodprize.org/) to promote sustainable agriculture, innovation in food systems, and global dialogue on food and nutrition security. These efforts help advance solutions that support farmers, protect natural resources, and ensure food security for future generations.

International Visitor Programs Build Global Understanding

Foundation-supported international visitor and exchange programs connect global leaders and communities through meaningful engagement, collaboration, and cross-cultural learning.
Investment in Future Leaders Through University Partnerships

Sehgal Foundation partners with universities across the US, offering internship opportunities in India with S M Sehgal Foundation, which provide students with hands-on experience in philanthropy, international development, sustainability, and community engagement. These internships help nurture socially conscious leaders while strengthening connections between academic theory and real-world impact.

Local Roots, Global Vision

By supporting youth development, environmental sustainability, biodiversity, global exchange, and agricultural innovation, Sehgal Foundation furthers the mission of strengthening community-led development wherever it operates.