In the complex world of social development, where challenges often outpace solutions, Shefali Sunderlal CRY America stands as a towering example of what relentless passion, clarity of vision, and committed leadership can achieve. For over three decades, Shefali has been at the forefront of a movement that champions the rights of underprivileged children across India and the United States. Today, her name is synonymous with hope, transformation, and unwavering dedication to the cause of child rights.
From Delhi to New York: A Life Devoted to Service
Armed with a Master’s degree in Social Work from Delhi University, Shefali began her journey in the field of development with CRY (Child Rights and You) India. From 1990 to 2001, she served as Director of Development Support, where she honed her skills in grassroots engagement, policy implementation, and advocacy.
Her transition to the United States in 2002 marked a new chapter — one that would see the birth of CRY America, an organisation that has since become a bridge between goodwill in the U.S. and the urgent needs of millions of children in India.
Now based in New York with her son Vikrant, Shefali Sunderlal continues to lead CRY America as its President and CEO, overseeing strategy, operations, fundraising, and brand-building. What began as a bold idea in 2002 has now grown into a vibrant movement with 25,153 donors, 2,000 volunteers, and over 733,684 children impacted through 90 life-changing projects.
Building a Movement: Not Just a Charity, But a Revolution
What distinguishes Shefali Sunderlal CRY America from other not-for-profits is its unwavering commitment to addressing the root causes of child rights violations. Unlike many charitable models that provide short-term relief, Shefali’s approach is systemic and sustainable. Inspired by the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, CRY America focuses on four core rights: survival, development, protection, and participation.
Under Shefali Sunderlal’s leadership, CRY America has partnered with 14 grassroots-level NGOs both in India and the United States. From eliminating child labor in Uttar Pradesh’s carpet weaving industry to rehabilitating street children in Tamil Nadu, and creating empowering spaces for youth in the U.S., these projects are transforming lives by giving children the chance to live, learn, and dream.
The Power of Collective Action
“Anyone and everyone can make a difference,” Shefali often says — and she lives by that belief. She has built a robust platform where volunteers, donors, and communities can contribute meaningfully. People like Siddharth Pandit in Boston, who spends his weekends creating fundraising products, exemplify the volunteer-driven spirit Shefali has nurtured.
Every dollar raised, every event hosted, every child reached, is a testament to Shefali’s vision of collective action. This inclusive model ensures that CRY America is not just an organization — it is a people-powered movement that thrives on empathy, accountability, and trust.
Daily Commitment, Deep Impact
Leading a nonprofit is no small feat, and Shefali Sunderlal’s daily schedule reflects the gravity of her mission. Beyond strategic planning and fundraising, she manages legal and accounting matters, coordinates across teams, and ensures every initiative is aligned with CRY America’s core values.
Yet for Shefali Sunderlal, it’s not just about operations. It’s about impact — ensuring children go to school instead of work, that they receive proper nutrition and healthcare, and that they are protected from abuse and exploitation. It’s about enabling them to grow into confident, capable individuals who can shape their own futures.
Accountability with Heart: What Makes CRY America Exceptional
Transparency and impact are pillars of CRY America under Shefali Sunderlal’s stewardship. Each project is rigorously monitored and evaluated, ensuring that resources are used efficiently and effectively. This meticulous attention to detail has built unparalleled credibility and trust among donors and partners.
Shefali Sunderlal’s inclusive leadership style also ensures that CRY America continues to evolve, adapt, and grow. From tapping into the goodwill of the Indian-American diaspora to expanding digital outreach and volunteer programs, she has transformed CRY America into a model nonprofit for the 21st century.
Beyond Numbers: Changing Narratives, One Child at a Time
The numbers are impressive — over 733,684 children impacted, 90 projects supported, thousands of volunteers activated — but Shefali’s true legacy lies in the stories. Stories of young girls in rural India attending school for the first time. Stories of former child laborers now pursuing higher education. Stories of entire communities awakening to the rights and dignity of children.
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