At Brays Oaks Management District, we proudly support and sponsor India House a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization and a vital community hub that exemplifies the spirit of service and inclusivity. Our partnership with India House reflects our shared mission to cultivate a connected community where every resident has access to essential resources and opportunities.

The Rich History of India House

The story of India House began as a dream in the 1970s, sparked by Indo-American students arriving at the University of Houston. As they graduated, they aspired to create a space where their cultural heritage could flourish and their community could grow. Initially, the group met in homes and small offices, but they soon envisioned a larger, more permanent cultural center.

In 2000, this vision began to take shape. The Indo-American community banded together to raise funds, and in 2003 a new entity called India House was incorporated. A series of transformative donations soon followed: philanthropist O.P. Jindal pledged $1 million, which was followed by another pledge of $1 million from Chowdary Yalamanchili. City of Houston also supported with another $1 million. With this financial foundation, construction began, and India House officially opened its doors in July 2008.

What started as a cultural center for Indo-Americans, quickly grew into a comprehensive community service center. “India House’s mission expanded from being just a meeting place to becoming a hub of free services for the entire community,” explained Col. Vipin Kumar, Executive Director of India House. “Today, we serve more than 20,000 people annually, and 95% of our beneficiaries are from diverse backgrounds, including African-American, Hispanic, and many others.”

A Hub for Community Events and Gatherings

India House is not just a center for services but also a place where the community comes together. The facility includes multiple banquet halls and conference rooms of various sizes, which are frequently utilized by non-profit organizations to host their “free to the public” events at no cost, providing an accessible venue for important community gatherings. The halls are also available for rent for private parties, celebrations, and events.

“Our goal is to make our facilities available to those who need them, especially organizations that work to uplift our community,” Col. Kumar shared. “We believe in fostering a sense of unity and support by providing these spaces to non-profits and other groups who share our commitment to service.”

Take a look at their indoor and outdoor spaces: Event Hall Rental (indiahouseinc.org)

Brays Oaks Management District’s Support of India House

Brays Oaks Management District has proudly partnered with India House for many years, recognizing its pivotal role in serving the community. Through our sponsorships, we have helped fund various programs that directly impact local residents, particularly those in economically challenged neighborhoods.

One of our most significant collaborations has been supporting the After School Program. For nearly eight years, Brays Oaks Management District funded transportation for children from four local elementary schools to India House. “This program provided a safe, supportive environment where children could receive homework help, participate in activities like soccer and Taekwondo, and enjoy a healthy snack,” said Col. Kumar. “It was a lifeline for many families, and we are now planning to restart this vital program soon.”

Brays Oaks Management District also sponsors the food distribution program, which serves 250 families every second and fourth Wednesday. “Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, including Brays Oaks, we have secured sponsorship for this program all the way through 2025,” shared Col. Kumar. “This support helps us cover the costs of security, volunteers, and other operational needs that make these distributions possible.”

Our contributions have extended to other educational initiatives as well, such as funding art and soccer coaching programs for local children. A recent $10,000 sponsorship allowed these programs to thrive, giving children opportunities to develop new skills in a nurturing environment.

Programs Offered at India House

India House provides a diverse array of programs that cater to the needs of the community. These services are made possible by generous sponsors.

  • Food Distribution – Serving 250 families every second and fourth Wednesday in partnership with the Houston Food Bank.
  • Virendra Mathur Charity Clinic – Free medical services offered without requiring insurance.
  • Yoga and BollyX Fitness Classes – Promoting health and wellness through free yoga and Bollywood-inspired fitness classes.
  • Sports: Cricket, Soccer Coaching and Table Tennis – Engaging the adult community in sports to foster physical activity and teamwork.
  • Legal Consultation and Immigration Services – Offering free legal advice to community members.
  • For children: SAT Math, Soccer Classes and Art & Craft Classes – Free educational support to help students prepare for college entrance exams.
  • For Seniors: Technology Classes, English Classes, Chair Yoga, and more!

A full list of programs, services and the schedule are available on their website: Programs and Services – India House Houston (indiahouseinc.org)

Community Events at India House

In addition to their year-round programs, India House hosts numerous free community events that cater to a variety of needs. Recent events include the Drive-Through District J Diaper Distribution, organized in collaboration with Council Member Edward Pollard and other sponsors. During this event, diapers (sizes newborn to 7), toys, and gift cards were provided to local families. Another notable event was the Free Sports Physical Examination, held in partnership with Dr. Reenu Varghese, where free physicals were offered to students in grades 6 to 12 whose physicals were due to expire within the next 12 months.

The next community event, the Alzheimer and Dementia Awareness Seminar—an educational program presented by the Alzheimer’s Association—will take place on September 15th, 2024.

To learn more about recent and upcoming events, please visit: Recent and Upcoming Events – India House Houston (indiahouseinc.org)

A Vision Rooted in Humanity

Col. Kumar reflects on the overwhelming generosity that India House has received: “I have come to believe that there are more good people in the world than bad. During times of crisis, like when my own house was flooded during Hurricane Harvey, I saw how people came together to help each other. It reinforced my belief in the goodness of humanity.”

This belief is at the core of India House’s mission. “There are people ready to give, and there are people in need,” Col. Kumar said. “Our role is to connect them, ensuring no one goes hungry or without the help they need.”

Get Involved

India House thrives on the support of community members and organizations that believe in its mission. If you are interested in volunteering, sponsoring a program or hosting an event, please reach out to India House directly to learn more about how you can make a difference. Contact Us – India House Houston (indiahouseinc.org)