120 Volunteers Raise $35K at FIFA World Cup in Houston

Volunteering at a global sporting event sounds glamorous until you're standing outside in Houston's summer heat for 10 hours straight. But that's exactly what 120 volunteers from Sewa International did during three FIFA World Cup matches at NRG Stadium, turning their sweat equity into $35,000 for families in crisis.

The volunteers worked matches on June 14, June 20, and July 4 in partnership with S.A.F.E. Management. They handled everything from ticket scanning to directing lost fans, logging 2,051 service hours while temperatures soared and rain occasionally poured down.

Ten dedicated volunteers showed up for all three matches. Preanka Arti was one of them, describing the experience as physically exhausting but deeply meaningful as she welcomed fans from around the world.

Vishal Khurana, another volunteer, said serving soccer enthusiasts from dozens of countries made the long shifts feel rewarding. Despite the challenging conditions, volunteers maintained their energy and compassion throughout each event.

The organization celebrated their dedication at a Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast on July 12. Everyone received commemorative FIFA volunteer T-shirts and shared stories about their experience bringing international hospitality to Texas.

The Ripple Effect

The real victory extends far beyond the stadium. Every dollar raised supports Sewa's Family Services Program, which assists people facing some of life's hardest moments: losing a loved one, navigating medical emergencies, dealing with immigration challenges, or caring for elderly family members.

The $35,000 will help the program expand its reach across Houston's diverse communities. More families will receive timely assistance when crisis strikes, thanks to volunteers who chose to spend their summer weekends serving others.

"Working 8 to 10 hours outdoors during the Houston summer required commitment and resilience," said Srikanth Gundavarapu, President of Sewa International USA. "We sincerely thank every volunteer for their selfless service."

Becca Holtgreive, Managing Director of S.A.F.E. Management, praised the partnership and hopes to work with Sewa volunteers again. The collaboration proved that major sporting events can do more than entertain—they can transform communities.

Sewa International operates 43 chapters across the United States, serving anyone regardless of background. Their volunteers just proved that hometown hospitality and global community can coexist beautifully, one hot Houston afternoon at a time.