Youth-Led VAS Learning Donates to the Montville Kiwanis Food Pantry

Montville, NJ – May 16, 2025 —In a powerful demonstration of youth-led service, VAS Learning — a student-run tutoring organization committed to education and community impact — has selected the Montville Kiwanis Food Pantry as the recipient of a $1,000 donation through its Adopt-A-Shelf

program. This contribution, raised entirely through tutoring efforts, will directly support the pantry’s mission to combat food insecurity in Montville and surrounding communities.

Also known as Vidyaisha, VAS Learning operates on a mission that blends academic support with sustainable charitable giving. Their founding statement makes that clear:

“At Vidyaisha, we strive to give young minds a good educational experience while working to support those in need in our communities. We are passionate about creating our own fund to directly address food insecurity. All proceeds from our tutoring sessions and workshops are donated to hunger-related causes.”

This approach isn’t simply generous—it’s a forward-thinking model of social impact powered by the next generation.

The organization’s commitment came to life when co-founders Vennela Kunchala and Shriya Surti recently visited the Montville Kiwanis Food Pantry. During their tour, they met with volunteers and learned firsthand how the client-choice pantry operates to support more than 400 individuals monthly.

“These were two very impressive young ladies,” said Ron Rauschart, a longtime member of the Montville Kiwanis Food Pantry Committee. “They were engaged, excited about their business, and proud to see their logo on our Adopt-A-Shelf sponsor placard.”

Larry Hines, President of the Montville Kiwanis Club, which founded and operates the pantry, praised the initiative:

“These two young women have redefined the meaning of ‘giving.’ Not only are they helping students academically—they are also ensuring that entire families have access to food.”

In a time of record demand, the pantry depends on initiatives like Adopt-A-Shelf Program to maintain reliable food access throughout the year. Support from organizations like VAS Learning is critical to meeting the growing needs of the community.

VAS Learning’s model — integrating academic enrichment with meaningful giving — is a testament to what’s possible when education and empathy intersect. Their $1,000 contribution will go a long way in helping keep pantry shelves stocked with essential, nutritious food.

About VAS Learning (Vidyaisha):
Based in Parsippany, NJ, VAS Learning is a student-led organization offering tutoring and educational workshops. All proceeds are donated to address food insecurity and support hunger-related initiatives. Learn more at https://vaslearning.org.

About the Montville Kiwanis Food Pantry:
Founded and operated by the Montville Kiwanis Club, the pantry provides food assistance to individuals and families in Montville and nearby communities. Through programs like Adopt-A-Shelf and ongoing community partnerships, the pantry works to alleviate hunger and promote dignity. To support or learn more, visit www.montvillekiwanis.org/food-pantry-mkfp.

About Montville Kiwanis:
Serving Montville, Pine Brook, and Towaco since 1978, the Montville Kiwanis Club is part of Kiwanis International and is dedicated to “improving the world one child and one community at a time.” The core of our work lies in the continuous passion and dedication we bring to the range of service projects we take part in. Programs include youth leadership development, scholarships, food pantry operations, and more. Join us to support our efforts to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others in our community. To learn more or to get involved visit https://www.montvillekiwanis.org