1.  Hindu Mandir Executive Conference September 11-13, 2009, Linthicum, MD Session 6B Discovering my Identity Through my Involvement in the Mandir Speaker – Keya Bhatt 1 September 11-13, 2009

2.  Hindu Mandir Executive Conference September 11-13, 2009, Linthicum, MD 2 Introduction Taking an active role as a Youth Coordinator/Teacher in the Mandir (Balagokulam/CROP) has allowed me to discover my identity and opened my eyes to the future.

3.  Hindu Mandir Executive Conference September 11-13, 2009, Linthicum, MD 3 My Experience Hindu Temple of Central Indiana (HTCI)- 2006 –Balagokulam (2001) –Youth Seminars/Conferences –Hindu Heritage Family Camps- 1999 Hindu Center of Charlotte –Childrens Religious Oriented Program (CROP) A 30-year well established Balgokulam program for children grades Kindergarten-12 th My involvement as the lead 4-5 th grade teacher

4.  Hindu Mandir Executive Conference September 11-13, 2009, Linthicum, MD 4 Why Get Involved? Involuntary vs. Voluntary –I was involved in the Mandir initially because of my parents. I am involved now because of Me. An Opportunity to Make a Difference –There is no greater reward/satisfaction then knowing you made a difference in someone’s life. Setting an Example –An active participation allows me to become a Role Model for children Spiritual Upliftment/Personal Growth –“One can’t lead if he doesn’t know where he’s going.”

5.  Hindu Mandir Executive Conference September 11-13, 2009, Linthicum, MD 5 Challenges Lack of dedication/interest amongst other youth Retaining youth currently involved in the Mandir Western Influence

6.  Hindu Mandir Executive Conference September 11-13, 2009, Linthicum, MD 6 The Future… A Bright One A strong group of dedicated Hindus –Even if small by numbers, large by actions My personal promise –I will continue to assist in sustaining the Hindu Dharma, culture and legacy through my service In the hands of the children/youth –As we continue to develop/teach the children and youth, they will continue the legacy

7.  Hindu Mandir Executive Conference September 11-13, 2009, Linthicum, MD 7 Conclusion Through my involvement in the Mandir, I have discovered my identity as a Hindu by: –Realizing the benefits of getting involved in the Mandir –Understanding the Challenges –Seeing the Future