I joined RSS in Bharat in 1992 and started a Shakha in JNU. Got distracted in "education, work, family" and my social ventures but have always been in touch with RSS whenever I go to India or if there are any causes or movements where I need to pitch into. It has been a great organization with the vision of uniting Hindus and serving (sewa) for Humanity via many affiliated organisations and on it's own to. I became active in HSS after relocating to Bay Area and starting my own business, Attending the Shakhas at Sunnyvale, San Jose, Pleasant, Dublin and various places gives great opportunities for personal health via "Surya Namaksar" and various Yogic exercises, Prayers, Games) and various social work activities in the community have been a great experience. One aspect which distinguishes HSS is the focus on
a) Giving Back / Serving via various social projects
b) Keeping the children and even adults connect to the roots, our traditions, culture , values
c) Community which acts like a support system whenever there is a need within HSS members or wider society like ( Earthquake, Flood, Poverty etc.)
Service before Self is the key mantra of HSS
Review from Guidestar
The name Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh is kind of misleading in the sense its activities are confined to only Hindus. This is an organization that strives for spiritual uplift of ANY person who wants to follow the path of peace , co-existence , humanity , and selfless service. This is compliment from a Non Hindu . I have seen Christian Missionaries , Jewish Rabbis amongst other religions who have attended their events. These folks have a vast network of centers with their sister concerns that also help disaster relief within hours of any calamity. All in all an excellent charity aimed at alleviating global causes. I would also like to warn of some vested political interests funded by terrorist countries ( to be precise - pakistan & saudi arabia , bangladesh - the very same folks who funded 9/11 and other terror activities ) who have created passive "front organizations" that pretend to be tolerant and secular and fund media that help taint such organizations in Bad Light. GOD BLESS AMERICA. GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS FIGHTING AGAINST TERRORISTS. OM SHANTI SHANTI SHANTI