Along with other YSS/SRF devotees, Yogoda devotees in Chennai, have made regular contributions, not only towards the upkeep and development of the retreat but also for the well-being of the communities surrounding the retreat.

In line with one of the Aims and Ideals of YSS “to serve mankind as one’s larger Self,” the Chennai retreat has been proactively undertaking charitable activities over the years.

Here is an overview of activities taken up and completed by the devotees in the recent past:

Spiritual outreach:

• A guided meditation for the residents of Mannur village was conducted; several sincere truth-seekers enrolled for the YSS Lessons. 

Educational outreach:

• Coaching centres (night school classes) were begun by YSS devotees for the underprivileged students of neighbouring areas such as Tirukkazhkundram, the tribal village of Annai Sathya Nagar, and Keerapakkam. 

• This initiative has improved literacy rates and reduced school dropouts; it also had the positive impact of equipping girls with vocational skills such as tailoring. 

• With support from YSS Ranchi and YSS devotees from Chennai, scholarships, books, relief materials, and medical support are provided to neighbouring communities regularly. We also contribute to the salaries of teachers at the tuition centre for the underprivileged students at Tirukkazhukundram, through a monthly honorarium. 

Medical outreach: 

• Devotee doctors from YSS Chennai Kendra have consistently arranged medical camps for the residents of nearby Mannur village. Regular eye check-up and dental check-up camps have been organized. During the eye check-up camps, spectacles were generously provided to those in need.

Infrastructure support to Mannur Village: 

• Upon the request of the residents of Mannur village, YSS also supported the installation of a drinking water borewell in the area. 

• A toilet block for primary school children at Mannur village was built by YSS