Dear Reader,
This Association was founded in 1985 by Seniors of Indian families, comprised primarily of individuals who spent major part of their life working in India & came to USA to be with their children .
The need for such an association is self-evident. While seniors provide very important contribution to resolve some of the problems faced by growing Indian families, their own problems continue to remain unaddressed at times. They feel serious cultural, Social & behavioral shock of being in an entirely alien environment. Loneliness and isolation are endemic. Lack of mobility is one of the most serious handicap.
The family atmosphere does not necessarily provide an efficient answer because of differing priorities and values. Adult children are away working & grandchildren are away at school a good part of the day. Sometimes differing language [lingo] & interests add to the difficulties of a meaningful rapport with children, particularly grandchildren. Rapport with neighbors is mostly out of question unless they happen to be Indian Seniors as well. The association tries to provide partial solutions to some these problems, albeit in a very limited way. The association provides as a forum to seniors to meet others of their age group, socialize exchange experiences, and seek information & solution. It provides an atmosphere of cheer, friendship & understanding.
The association is a non-profit tax exempt incorporated entity with members from every region of India. Our present membership is over seven hundred. It is a non-regional & non-denominational organization. Its members come from all parts of India & adhere to the various religion of India. Membership is open to seniors having cultural heritage from the Indian subcontinent. The members meet regularly twice a month generally on the second & forth Saturdays. The meeting is always well attended with over 150 persons in attendance on average.
Some of the main programs consist of:
- Information on health, prevention & management of diseases, nutrition, YOGA exercises laughing yoga, fitness & wellbeing programs related to the aged from professional experts.
- Information on immigration, taxation, legal issues ,oci,pio,citizenship etc. from professional in the field.
- Indian cultural dance, Bhajans, filmy songs from Indian dance school & well know artists of Houston.
- Day trips, outings & picnic to nearby places of interest within 200 miles once every month.
- Lunch & snacks are provided to seniors at meetings & Picnics.
Efforts are currently underway, with the help of other organizations, to provide more programs to identify & address some of the other problems & issues related to senior Citizens.
With regards,
President, Indian Senior Citizens Association of Houston