VIVEK Educational Foundation of Canada (Vivek Canada) is now formally accredited as a non-governmental organization (NGO) with special consultative status by the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).

This prestigious designation follows a rigorous approval process, which includes a comprehensive review of an organization’s mission, history, and proven ability to support the objectives of ECOSOC and the broader work of the United Nations.

Vivek Canada’s President Dr. Harmesh Sidher says: “In nearly 20 years our grassroots NGO has been working alongside rural communities…this recognition inspires us to continue our work.”

The ECOSOC consultative status reinforces the foundation’s commitment to building thoughtful, sustainable partnerships that connect community action to global impact.

As an NGO with special consultative status, Vivek Canada will now have the opportunity to:

• Offer expert analysis and insight based on field experience

• Raise awareness on emerging global and regional issues

• Contribute to discussions at international forums and UN meetings

• Participate more actively in advancing UN goals and initiatives

Vivek Canada will continue to support rural empowerment near the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve in Uttar Pradesh, India, and foster intergenerational engagement through its Dawn to Dusk program for youth and seniors in Metro Vancouver. This accreditation strengthens Vivek Canada’s mission to foster sustainable human development in both India and Canada through education, capacity-building, and inclusive community engagement.

Registered since 2006, Vivek Canada is a grassroots based, global charity that supports education, healthcare, and livelihood projects in rural and remote villages in U.P., India. Working closely with remote communities in the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve, Vivek Canada focuses on providing access to education, sustainability and gender equality. With four schools established more than 2,700 children have completed their elementary school education and many have gone on to complete their higher studies and work in various professions.

To date more than 1,000 free solar lamps have been distributed to rural households in remote communities living without electricity that otherwise rely on toxic kerosene lamps. By hiring female teachers at the rural schools, Vivek Canada advocates for the empowerment of rural women with various job creation projects.

In 2024, Vivek Canada launched an intergenerational program in Metro Vancouver Dawn to Dusk, funded by the Government of Canada. This unique local program promotes well-being, social inclusion and volunteerism amongst South Asian seniors and youth living in the Lower Mainland.

For more information, visit: vivekcanada.org