Amala Foundation Vanessa Stone Austin

The Amala Foundation unites people from all walks of life and inspires them to grow as individuals and as leaders in service to humanity.

“Amala” means many things in many languages. In Hindi, it means “pure”; in Arabic “hope”; and in Hebrew “work.”

Amala offers safe, supportive and inspiring experiences where people from all backgrounds come together to learn and grow. From retreats to camps to leadership training, Amala’s programs promote personal growth, clear communication, deep listening, compassion and an ethos of service.

Most of Amala’s programs are focused on young people, including refugee and immigrant youth. Our youth come from many countries, ethnicities, religions, races, cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds. Some have grown up in refugee camps and are struggling to adjust to life in a new country, while others have been raised in middle and upper class families. Many have experienced war, abuse, neglect, extreme poverty, child labor, and gang violence. Yet no matter where we’re from or what hardships we’ve faced, we ultimately want the same things: love, acceptance, human connection and peace. Amala offers these young people a place to connect with a diverse community, build lasting friendships, and develop the skills needed to rise up as leaders in their communities.

Founded in 2001, Amala has grown to offer programs in 5 countries and 4 states, serving over 4,500 youth from 50 countries and creating meaningful volunteer opportunities for over 3,500 people.

Our programs are open to all youth, regardless of their ability to pay. We rely on the generous support of our community to ensure that no one is turned away who wishes to attend. About 80% of our participants receive some type of scholarship.

Reviews and Testimonials for Amala Foundation’s Work

“I grew up in a world of bloodshed, fear and tears. The Summit was a place where I was honored for being a whole human being. I was embraced with a deep love… a love that I never knew existed… a love that I know if more people in the world felt for each other – we’d have no more war.” – Evelyn, age 19, Former Abducted Child Soldier from Uganda

“The Summit for me was the place where I realized I was a gift to the world.” – Nany, age 18, Guatemala

“Amala holds a special place in my heart that can never be replaced. Realizing your own true worth is a gift that I have not received elsewhere.” – Lexis, age 16, United States

“Amala made me realize many things. It made me realize my desire to help others. It helped me find my real self.” – Fernando, age 17, Palestine
.

In the News

Austin News 8 coverage of The Global Youth Peace Summit
(an international gathering of youth held in Austin, Texas)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hDvF5ZARr0o

—