Added April 08, 2008

Gurmat Youth Camp, Renton, WA

In today's materialistic world it has become important for us to teach our kids about roots and about religion. Gurmat Youth Camp is an excellent opportunity for children to learn about religion, learn music, exchange thoughts, meet peers, and make friends. The growing number of participants between the ages of 7-17 and being held for the 10th year show how much the Gurmat Youth Camp has gained in popularity. The children also get to enjoy other recreational activities like roller skating, picnics, games, etc. What's more, participants are offered both traditional Punjabi food as well as pizza, pasta, cereal, etc. Adults also have the opportunity to volunteer.

Khalsa Gurmat School, Renton, WA

As I walk through the classroom at the Khalsa Gurmat School at the Gurudwara Sahib in Renton, WA it reminds me of the Punjab village where students sit down on the floor under the shade of a tree and learn Punjabi every day. There are some 300 students enrolled for the weekly class of Punjabi language at the Khalsa Gurmat School in Renton. The goal is that the students be comfortable to communicate in Punjabi and also be able to read the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book of the Sikhs, and other books in Punjabi language. Some students are also enrolled in learning Kirtan (the Sikh music) and play Tabla (drums). Most of the classes are taught by volunteers who devote time and energy to make sure that the children get best of education.

The biggest challenge is the School. The Gurudwara Sahib has plans to build a school in the near future. The enrollment of 300 students is more than what the management had expected. Due to high enrollment the classes start after the Sunday prayers. There is a need to better organize the classes and meet the expectations of the community. We also need to tap the potential of the volunteers and parents who are willing to contribute to the School. The high enrollment proves the keen interest of the parents to teach their children about their roots. The children get very little time to learn the Gurumukhi script and learn about their values but it is important that the Class is well organized to meet the expectations and goals. "It is a big challenge," one parent agrees. "They have a long way to go. But with the energy of the volunteers, who are doing this seva out of love, we are sure they will be able to achieve their goals." Classes are also held at other Sikh Gurudwaras including Marysville and Kent. Sikhs are always keen to teach their children about their values.