As Barbara James steps into retirement, Hindu Charities for America (HC4A) reflects on the profound impact she has had on our organization and the communities we serve. Barbara’s journey with HC4A is a testament to her unwavering commitment to educational equity and her passion for supporting economically disadvantaged students.
A Journey of Inspiration and Dedication
In 2010, Harish Kotecha founded HC4A with a vision to support the education of those in need. Seeking endorsements to legitimize the organization, he turned to the Texas Homeless Education Office (now part of Region 13), where Barbara was the Executive Director. Barbara’s enthusiasm for the cause was infectious, and she quickly became an integral part of HC4A’s growth and success.
Barbara’s leadership and connections were instrumental in introducing HC4A to various Independent School Districts (ISDs) through the help of Vicky Dill, a seasoned educator with many decades of experience across all levels of public and private education, and an expert in children’s legal rights in poverty.
Barbara’s ability to build bridges and foster relationships laid the foundation for many of HC4A’s initiatives.
Pioneering Fundraising Efforts
One of Barbara’s notable contributions was her role in organizing HC4A’s first fundraising event in 2010. What began as an amateur idea transformed into a vibrant Bollywood Fiesta, thanks to Barbara’s love for Bollywood dance and her collaborative spirit. The event, held at a Mexican restaurant co-owned by community supporter Jose Uriegus, successfully raised funds for the 2011-2012 school year.
Continued Guidance and Unwavering Support
Even after retiring from her position as Executive Director, Barbara’s dedication to HC4A did not wane. Harish reached out to her, and she facilitated introductions to her successor and continued to offer her guidance. At Harish’s suggestion, Barbara joined the HC4A board, further strengthening her commitment to the organization’s mission.
“Barbara’s grace and unwavering dedication to the cause of educating homeless children have been truly inspiring. She helped design rigorous programs that have enabled HC4A to confidently provide the right funding to the right partners. Her legacy within HC4A and the Austin community is profound and everlasting.”
– Gulshan Singh, Board Member
Barbara’s presence at fundraisers and her strategic input have been invaluable. Her ability to inspire and lead by example has left an indelible mark on HC4A.
Barbara's Reflection
In her own words, Barbara reflected on her time with HC4A:
“From the moment I met Harish Kotecha, I knew his desire to help children and youth in homeless situations was sincere, and that I wanted to do everything I could to assist in his efforts. I’ll never forget that first fundraiser: it was a night of Indian dancing and music in a Mexican restaurant! It was hugely successful and led to HC4A’s signature ‘Bollywood Meets Borscht Belt’ event.”
Her reflection underscores why the work of evangelists like Barbara is so critical to the growth of a community. By advocating for and championing causes that uplift others, they create ripples of positive change that extend far beyond their immediate efforts.
“It’s been so exciting and fulfilling to be part of HC4A—to help grow the organization from an idea to one that has made a difference in the lives of thousands of young people over the last 14 years,” Barbara added. “One of the things I like best about HC4A is its multicultural aspect. Collaborations with the Jewish and African American communities demonstrate that not only does HC4A ‘bridge economic disparities through education,’ but that we bridge cultural and racial differences as well through building meaningful relationships with diverse communities. For me, it doesn’t get any better than that!”
Barbara’s heartfelt reflection highlights the importance of building meaningful relationships across cultural and racial divides. Her work exemplifies how bridging economic disparities through education can also foster unity and understanding among diverse communities.
“As I leave Austin and start a new life in Illinois, I will still volunteer with HC4A remotely—mostly in an advisory capacity with a little writing and editing here and there. The school supplies, the scholarships, the certification training—all are so needed to give children and young adults the hand up they need to escape the clutches of poverty. I look forward to HC4A’s next chapter and my role in it.”
Wishing Barbara a Joyful Retirement
As Barbara embarks on this new chapter of her life, we celebrate her legacy with deep appreciation. Her passion for educational equity and her heartfelt dedication have touched countless lives.
“Few will ever realize the far-reaching impact that Barbara James has had on the lives of school children experiencing homelessness over the past decades. Her influence extends across Texas and the entire nation.
But her passion for many years has been working with HC4A to bring resources to local schools to help school children in the Austin area. Barbara has always appreciated HC4A’s efforts that reflect diversity across the cultural and racial boundaries. Her HC4A efforts will continue even from Illinois.”
– Diane Nilan, President, HEAR US Inc.
Diane has closely worked with Barbara and is also on the advisory board of HC4A. HEAR US Inc. has been giving voice & visibility to families and youth experiencing homelessness since 2005.
Though we will miss her dearly, we are excited for Barbara as she enjoys a well-deserved retirement surrounded by her loving family. Her contributions to HC4A will continue to inspire us as we forge ahead in our mission to support the education of those in need.
For more information about Barbara’s inspiring career and contributions, please visit Barbara James – HC4A.
