This month, we shine a light on Smita Rane, a dedicated Goonj volunteer whose journey of giving has spanned continents. A resident of Syracuse, NY, Smita’s commitment to Goonj began years ago when her family moved to Hyderabad, India. There, she and her family became deeply involved in volunteering—organizing material collection drives, mobilizing local communities, and championing Goonj’s mission of dignity-driven development
Now, having recently relocated back to the U.S., Smita is eager to bring her experience and passion to The Goonj Foundation community. She has reached out to help establish a Goonj presence in Syracuse and Cornell, fostering a new chapter that will engage local communities in the U.S. with the work happening in India.
Her story is an inspiring reminder that meaningful contributions to social change are not bound by geography. Whether in India or the U.S., Smita continues to lead with the spirit of service and collective action—values at the heart of the Goonj movement.
If you’re based in the Syracuse/Cornell area and would like to get involved, reach out to us at getinvolved@goonjfoundation.org
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