Frequently Asked Questions
What is UMEED?
UMEED, meaning “Hope” in Urdu, Punjabi and Hindi, is a UNITED SIKHS National Family Resource Center with a 24-hour toll free helpline : 1-855-US-UMEED (1-855-878-6333). This unique and confidential service is multi-lingual and provides support in English and Punjabi to assist with Community Empowerment and Education via a multitude of services.
UMEED is a project of UNITED SIKHS Community Empowerment and Education Division (CEED)
What is UNITED SIKHS?
UNITED SIKHS is a U.N. affiliated, international non-profit, non-governmental, humanitarian relief, human development and advocacy organization, aimed at empowering those in need, especially disadvantaged and minority communities across the world. UNITED SIKHS is registered: as a non-profit tax exempt organization pursuant to Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code in the USA.
Our mission is to transform underprivileged and minority communities and individuals into informed and vibrant members of society through civic, educational and personal development programs, by fostering active participation in social and economic activity. For more information go to http://www.unitedsikhs.org
What is the purpose of UMEED?
UMEED was borne out of a need seen within the community. For the past several years, under the CEED program, UNITED SIKHS has been providing services to address the issues that are faced by individuals and families. These cases have involved individuals seeking help from all over the United States and also from Canada.
Since inception, UNITED SIKHS has seen over 150 cases involving Hate crimes, Domestic Violence, Bullying at workplaces and schools, Senior citizen assistance and providing legal guidance on a multitude of issues.
Seeing an increase in the number of such individuals seeking help, UNITED SIKHS leaders conceived UMEED, a Nation-wide Family Resource Center to provide uniform, 24 hours/seven days a week, outreach of services to the community.
UMEED will now extend the reach further in the community by providing a 24-hour helpline to assist on the aforementioned issues.
What Services are provided at UMEED?
Services provided at UMEED include a 24 hour, 7 days a week, helpline that serves all communities. Support services at UMEED include:
- Senior Care and educational services
- Domestic Violence Counseling
- Substance Abuse Counseling
- Helping Families and Individuals in Courts
- Youth Leadership Training Programs
- Bullying Prevention Initiative and Anti-Bullying Training
- Anti Hate Crime Counseling and advocacy
- Personal support and Social Work Services
Where does the funding for UMEED come from ?
All the services and activities at UMEED are funded through donations by general public, private sponsors and organized fund-raising social events.
Do my donations qualify for Income Tax Exemption?
Yes, all donations to UMEED or UNITED SIKHS qualifies for an income tax exemption. Formal receipts will be given in-person or mailed to be used for Tax Exemption filing purposes.
How can I help ?
UMEED team is grateful for all the help it gets from generous individuals like yourself. You can be actively involved in making UMEED a success by volunteering your time and expertise.
You can also support UMEED by sending one-time or regular donations of any amount at http://unitedsikhs.org/donate.
To contact a UNITED SIKHS representative or find an office near you, please visit http://unitedsikhs.org/contact.php.
