FAQs
What is IFA’s mission?
IFA's mission is to help change the face of India by becoming a catalyst in the economic self-sufficiency and empowerment of the underprivileged segments of Indian society.Visit About us page for more details
What is IFA’s vision?
IFA is dedicated to fostering grassroots development in India. Its vision is to function as a catalyst in activities that promote economic empowerment and self sufficiency of the most under privileged population of India and become a vehicle channelizing the diaspora energies and resources into bringing about positive change in India. IFA is neither a charity nor a debating society. Visit About us page for more details
What are IFA’s beliefs and values?
Beliefs
How is IFA different from other NGOs / Charity organizations?
IFA addresses root causes without ignoring symptoms.
- Most charities offer much needed immediate relief while IFA’s focus is on long term issues and root causes
- IFA emphasizes “path to self-sufficiency”, a key evaluation factor in all IFA funding decisions
- IFA supports both “projects” and “fellowships”
Projects have modest and tangible objectives, over a short time frame, in a relatively local context. They are awarded to organizations that would create a model action plan that can be replicated elsewhere.
Fellowships have more potential to effect widespread changes due to emphasis on diverse social and economic reforms. They are awarded to individuals with outstanding record of active on-the-ground engagement with the masses.
IFA is community-based, and an all-voluntary organization
Can I attend the IFA meetings?
Yes, anyone can attend IFA meetings as a guest without the pressure of expectation or immediate commitment. We are always excited to meet new people.
What will be my time commitment when I join IFA?
There is wide range of time commitment from 30 mins/week to 8 hrs/week depending on which activity you chose to volunteer for. Please review our volunteer page for all options.
How safe is donating online?
We utilize two well-known industry recognized vendors for Online donations with long history of reliable technology. They are Razoo and Paypal. Please review our donation page for details.
Who are the typical IFA volunteers?
IFA volunteer’s age ranges from 4 to 70, belonging to wide spectrum of social class, nationality and economic strate. Essentially, IFA volunteers represent the true microcosm of the planet we occupy.
How does IFA claim to be transparent?
The proof of the pudding lies is in the tasting. We encourage everyone to attend our meetings and engage in volunteer activities to realize the degree of our transparency. Please contact us for any specific question about IFA and we will be happy to answer that.
Is IFA affiliated with any other organization or Government?
No. Although we network with several organizations across India for individual issues, causes, movements and projects, it is not a contract based relationship. In essence, our stand may be supportive of partner organization on a particular matter but we reserve the right to have independent opinion on another matter.
Who are IFA fellows and how are they selected?
IFA fellows are essentially foot-soldiers undertaking grassroots action in geographically remote or economically impoverished communities of India. Typically, they are first recommended by senior activists in India who know of candidate’s work. The matter is then debated in IFA meetings before decisions are made.
Who are IFA’s corporate sponsors?
None. IFA does not have any corporate sponsorship
I do not have time to be an full time IFA member. Can I be a part time member or get regular updates on IFA work without having to spend too much time?
Absolutely. In fact, most of our members work part-time. You can get regular updates by sharing your email ID which we will add to our newsletter distribution.
How does IFA raise funds?
Individual donations via fundraisers like Archana and Marathon
What is the best way to contact IFA?
Please refer to Contact Us page on this site.
Why should I donate / support IFA?
If you are someone looking to find a channel to connect with India, IFA provides you that platform. Also, if you desire grassroots and fundamental change as against immediate relief or charity, you should consider supporting IFA.
How do I donate to IFA?
Thank you for considering a donation to IFA. Donation link: http://indiafriendsassociation.weebly.com/donate.html
Can I donate from India?
Sure, our channels accept Credit/Debit Card donations from India
I did not get my Tax receipt for donation last year, what should I do?
We apologize for any inconvenience. Please contact us at info@indiafriendsassociation.com
How do I sign up for IFA newsletters?
To get added to the IFA Newsletter, please email Garry.Mehta@gmail.com
I do not want to receive IFA newsletters anymore, how do I unsubscribe?
To unsubscribe from IFA newsletter, please email Garry.Mehta@gmail.com. In the email, kindly mention the reason for unsubscription.
How can I participate in Archana?
Please click here for details about Archana participation. Contact us at info@indiafriendsassociation.com for further details.
Where can I see last year’s Archana program?
All Archana Programs are now posted on IFA Youtube channel. Lookup Archana page for latest Archana Playlist.
What is IFA Fall Forum?
To read about IFA Fall Forum, please visit Fall Forum page
How do I participate in the Marathon? What is expected of me?
Please visit this page to know what is expected of a participant
How does IFA select its Fellows/ Projects?
IFA Founding members go to each multiple times each year to meet various grassroots leaders. Through this network, they are able to identify areas of need and select its fellows and projects. We highly encourage those who are interested in learning more to participate in IFA meetings.
Where can I learn more about the work being done by IFA’s fellows/projects?
IFA’s Youtube channel has short videos on select few IFA projects. You can watch them here: http://www.youtube.com/ifainfo
You can even read summary as well as annual report on our Fellows here: http://indiafriendsassociation.weebly.com/fellowships.html
and on our Projects here: http://indiafriendsassociation.weebly.com/projects.html
How do you calculate the ROI on the donations for the work being done?
IFA calculates the return on investment in non-monetary terms and intangible assets such as empowerment of women, children and the underprivileged people of indian society, bringing sustainable development, economic justice and better governance. IFA does not do charity or create dependency, but believes in creating self sufficiency. IFA has placed itself in the role of doing grassroots development which can only be measured over several years or even decades. This is an intentional strategic placement because the founding members of IFA believe that the pillars of a society cannot be strengthened by short cut measures. After all Rome was not built in a day. Learn more about IFA’s working principles here: http://indiafriendsassociation.weebly.com/about-us.html
We also encourage you to participate regularly in IFA monthly meetings to get a better understanding, help influence and engage in a healthy debate on this matter.
How can I help or participate?
IFA is constantly looking for new volunteers for various kinds of activities. Specific volunteer opportunities are listed here: http://indiafriendsassociation.weebly.com/volunteer.html
Generally speaking, you can be part of IFA in following ways :
1. Attend and participate in the IFA chapter in Ventura County
2. Attend and participate in the IFA-Young Professionals chapter in San Fernando valley/Greater Los Angeles area
3. Participate in Archana Program
4. Attend IFA’s Fall Forum Speaker Series event
What is Archana?
Archana is IFA's annual fundraiser and a colorful Indian cultural show put together professionally by 100+ volunteers in the spring of each year at the Fred Kavli Theatre in Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza.
Learn more here: http://indiafriendsassociation.weebly.com/archana.html
How long has IFA been around?
IFA was started in 1993 by a group of Indian Americans in Southern California. Learn more about IFA here: http://indiafriendsassociation.weebly.com/about-us.html
Is IFA is an official Non profit organization?
Yes, India Friends Association is an official non-profit organization. The IRS has determined that India Friends Association is exempt from federal income tax under section 501 (a) of the Internal Revenue Code as an organization described in section 501 (c) (3).
IFA's mission is to help change the face of India by becoming a catalyst in the economic self-sufficiency and empowerment of the underprivileged segments of Indian society.Visit About us page for more details
What is IFA’s vision?
IFA is dedicated to fostering grassroots development in India. Its vision is to function as a catalyst in activities that promote economic empowerment and self sufficiency of the most under privileged population of India and become a vehicle channelizing the diaspora energies and resources into bringing about positive change in India. IFA is neither a charity nor a debating society. Visit About us page for more details
What are IFA’s beliefs and values?
Beliefs
- Inclusive and voluntary involvement. Compel none and invite all
- Assist and cooperate towards self sufficiency, not charity or dependency
- Build bridges by seeking participation rather than mere monetary contributions
- Aim for the lowest possible overhead with most working expenses voluntarily borne by the members
- High personal involvement
- Frugality
- Collective effort with emphasis on service
- Democracy in thought, consensus in action
How is IFA different from other NGOs / Charity organizations?
IFA addresses root causes without ignoring symptoms.
- Most charities offer much needed immediate relief while IFA’s focus is on long term issues and root causes
- IFA emphasizes “path to self-sufficiency”, a key evaluation factor in all IFA funding decisions
- IFA supports both “projects” and “fellowships”
Projects have modest and tangible objectives, over a short time frame, in a relatively local context. They are awarded to organizations that would create a model action plan that can be replicated elsewhere.
Fellowships have more potential to effect widespread changes due to emphasis on diverse social and economic reforms. They are awarded to individuals with outstanding record of active on-the-ground engagement with the masses.
IFA is community-based, and an all-voluntary organization
Can I attend the IFA meetings?
Yes, anyone can attend IFA meetings as a guest without the pressure of expectation or immediate commitment. We are always excited to meet new people.
What will be my time commitment when I join IFA?
There is wide range of time commitment from 30 mins/week to 8 hrs/week depending on which activity you chose to volunteer for. Please review our volunteer page for all options.
How safe is donating online?
We utilize two well-known industry recognized vendors for Online donations with long history of reliable technology. They are Razoo and Paypal. Please review our donation page for details.
Who are the typical IFA volunteers?
IFA volunteer’s age ranges from 4 to 70, belonging to wide spectrum of social class, nationality and economic strate. Essentially, IFA volunteers represent the true microcosm of the planet we occupy.
How does IFA claim to be transparent?
The proof of the pudding lies is in the tasting. We encourage everyone to attend our meetings and engage in volunteer activities to realize the degree of our transparency. Please contact us for any specific question about IFA and we will be happy to answer that.
Is IFA affiliated with any other organization or Government?
No. Although we network with several organizations across India for individual issues, causes, movements and projects, it is not a contract based relationship. In essence, our stand may be supportive of partner organization on a particular matter but we reserve the right to have independent opinion on another matter.
Who are IFA fellows and how are they selected?
IFA fellows are essentially foot-soldiers undertaking grassroots action in geographically remote or economically impoverished communities of India. Typically, they are first recommended by senior activists in India who know of candidate’s work. The matter is then debated in IFA meetings before decisions are made.
Who are IFA’s corporate sponsors?
None. IFA does not have any corporate sponsorship
I do not have time to be an full time IFA member. Can I be a part time member or get regular updates on IFA work without having to spend too much time?
Absolutely. In fact, most of our members work part-time. You can get regular updates by sharing your email ID which we will add to our newsletter distribution.
How does IFA raise funds?
Individual donations via fundraisers like Archana and Marathon
What is the best way to contact IFA?
Please refer to Contact Us page on this site.
Why should I donate / support IFA?
If you are someone looking to find a channel to connect with India, IFA provides you that platform. Also, if you desire grassroots and fundamental change as against immediate relief or charity, you should consider supporting IFA.
How do I donate to IFA?
Thank you for considering a donation to IFA. Donation link: http://indiafriendsassociation.weebly.com/donate.html
Can I donate from India?
Sure, our channels accept Credit/Debit Card donations from India
I did not get my Tax receipt for donation last year, what should I do?
We apologize for any inconvenience. Please contact us at info@indiafriendsassociation.com
How do I sign up for IFA newsletters?
To get added to the IFA Newsletter, please email Garry.Mehta@gmail.com
I do not want to receive IFA newsletters anymore, how do I unsubscribe?
To unsubscribe from IFA newsletter, please email Garry.Mehta@gmail.com. In the email, kindly mention the reason for unsubscription.
How can I participate in Archana?
Please click here for details about Archana participation. Contact us at info@indiafriendsassociation.com for further details.
Where can I see last year’s Archana program?
All Archana Programs are now posted on IFA Youtube channel. Lookup Archana page for latest Archana Playlist.
What is IFA Fall Forum?
To read about IFA Fall Forum, please visit Fall Forum page
How do I participate in the Marathon? What is expected of me?
Please visit this page to know what is expected of a participant
How does IFA select its Fellows/ Projects?
IFA Founding members go to each multiple times each year to meet various grassroots leaders. Through this network, they are able to identify areas of need and select its fellows and projects. We highly encourage those who are interested in learning more to participate in IFA meetings.
Where can I learn more about the work being done by IFA’s fellows/projects?
IFA’s Youtube channel has short videos on select few IFA projects. You can watch them here: http://www.youtube.com/ifainfo
You can even read summary as well as annual report on our Fellows here: http://indiafriendsassociation.weebly.com/fellowships.html
and on our Projects here: http://indiafriendsassociation.weebly.com/projects.html
How do you calculate the ROI on the donations for the work being done?
IFA calculates the return on investment in non-monetary terms and intangible assets such as empowerment of women, children and the underprivileged people of indian society, bringing sustainable development, economic justice and better governance. IFA does not do charity or create dependency, but believes in creating self sufficiency. IFA has placed itself in the role of doing grassroots development which can only be measured over several years or even decades. This is an intentional strategic placement because the founding members of IFA believe that the pillars of a society cannot be strengthened by short cut measures. After all Rome was not built in a day. Learn more about IFA’s working principles here: http://indiafriendsassociation.weebly.com/about-us.html
We also encourage you to participate regularly in IFA monthly meetings to get a better understanding, help influence and engage in a healthy debate on this matter.
How can I help or participate?
IFA is constantly looking for new volunteers for various kinds of activities. Specific volunteer opportunities are listed here: http://indiafriendsassociation.weebly.com/volunteer.html
Generally speaking, you can be part of IFA in following ways :
1. Attend and participate in the IFA chapter in Ventura County
2. Attend and participate in the IFA-Young Professionals chapter in San Fernando valley/Greater Los Angeles area
3. Participate in Archana Program
4. Attend IFA’s Fall Forum Speaker Series event
What is Archana?
Archana is IFA's annual fundraiser and a colorful Indian cultural show put together professionally by 100+ volunteers in the spring of each year at the Fred Kavli Theatre in Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza.
Learn more here: http://indiafriendsassociation.weebly.com/archana.html
How long has IFA been around?
IFA was started in 1993 by a group of Indian Americans in Southern California. Learn more about IFA here: http://indiafriendsassociation.weebly.com/about-us.html
Is IFA is an official Non profit organization?
Yes, India Friends Association is an official non-profit organization. The IRS has determined that India Friends Association is exempt from federal income tax under section 501 (a) of the Internal Revenue Code as an organization described in section 501 (c) (3).