October 4, 2025 | North Hills (Van Nuys), CA |

Fulbright Greater Los Angeles joined the Fulbright India Interest Group for a Global Service Days homeless outreach event at Hope the Mission, bringing together Fulbrighters, families, and community members for a morning of hands-on service. Led by Mrinalini Watson, President of the Fulbright India Interest Group and former Fulbright GLAC Board Member, the event reflected shared values of compassion, community engagement, and global citizenship that define the Fulbright spirit.

More than twenty volunteers of all ages participated, creating a warm, intergenerational atmosphere rooted in teamwork and purpose. Participants learned firsthand how Hope the Mission has grown in just 17 years, from serving a single daily meal in a church kitchen to preparing more than 7,000 meals each day for families experiencing homelessness. Volunteers supported this work by preparing graham-cracker berry coffee cake and assisting with a variety of kid-friendly service activities.

The morning offered both meaningful service and space for connection, as alumni and friends from across Fulbright programs worked side-by-side, sharing stories of their exchange experiences and commitment to community building. The event beautifully captured the message of Global Service Days: small acts of service, done together, can strengthen communities and bring to life the shared values of Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.