This summer, VT Seva Seattle held two community-driven events that brought people together for a great cause—the Unity Cup charity cricket tournament and the Unity Walkathon. Both events were designed to raise awareness and funds for building tiny homes in collaboration with Sound Foundation NW, an organization that works to provide housing for the homeless in the Greater Seattle Area.
The Vision Behind the Events
The idea for these events stemmed from Swamiji’s visit last year, where he encouraged VT Seva to partner with local non-profits and contribute to solving local challenges. With over 16,000 homeless individuals in the Greater Seattle Area, finding a way to contribute to this pressing issue felt like a meaningful way for us to give back to the community. Building tiny homes has the potential to create a ripple effect, providing not just shelter but also hope for those in need.
The Inaugural Unity Cup Cricket Tournament
The Unity Cup marked its first year as a charity cricket tournament with enthusiastic participation from the community. Nine teams came together, not just for friendly competition but with a shared mission to help provide homes for the homeless. The atmosphere was electric, filled with camaraderie, sportsmanship, and the joy of knowing that their efforts would go beyond the field to make a real-world impact.
In a special highlight of the event, the board members of Sound Foundation NW were in attendance to support the cause. They spoke passionately about the need for tiny homes and the critical role they play in addressing homelessness in our region.
The Unity Cup has now become more than just a game; it’s an annual tradition in the making, a way for VT Seva to engage with local youth and adults alike, inspiring them to take part in philanthropy while enjoying a beloved sport.
Walking Together for a Cause: The Unity Walkathon
Alongside the cricket tournament, the Unity Walkathon brought together over 70 participants, many of them youth volunteers, who walked in solidarity to raise awareness and funds for the same cause. With every step, walkers knew they were contributing toward the construction of a tiny home that will support individuals without a permanent place to call their own.
The event was a testament to the strength of community spirit—where people of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life came together to support the less fortunate.
Raising Funds, Building Hope
Through the Unity Cup and Walkathon, we were able to raise over $6,500. These funds will be used to build a tiny home in the Greater Seattle Area, in collaboration with Sound Foundation NW. Each tiny home has the potential to serve about 60 families over its lifetime, providing critical shelter and stability to those who need it most.
In a region where the homeless population continues to grow, even a single tiny home can make a profound difference. VT Seva’s contribution is a small but powerful step toward addressing homelessness, ensuring that families and individuals have a safe place to sleep, live, and rebuild their lives.
What’s Next?
With the success of the Unity Cup and Unity Walkathon, VT Seva is looking forward to making these events a regular part of our annual calendar. We are committed to continuing our collaboration with Sound Foundation NW to expand our impact on the local homeless population. Every event, every dollar raised, and every volunteer hour brings us closer to a future where more individuals have access to safe, dignified housing.
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