Padma Sherni Information

The name "Padma Sherni" refers to "Lotus Tigress" from a character name that will be used as a "mascot" symbolizing power and strength, to advocate for child and family wellbeing through promotion of health and literacy, children's play, and multicultural awareness through the arts. Projects are intended for all families, but especially geared towards meeting the needs of underserved populations. Approximately 21% of children in the United States live in poverty (National Center for Children in Poverty, 2015). For children in poverty, below the age of 6 years, neurodevelopmental disabilities has increased (AAP, 2013). Early screening is important to identify physical health or behavior problems, delays, or disability and then provide related healthcare referrals (Marks and Glascoe, 2010). Padma Sherni Inc. has a strong interest in increasing the rate of screenings and related referrals for literacy and health promotion. The founder started this nonprofit organization to focus on efforts like education as a path out of poverty, alongside of mentorship, social policy research and project evaluation in collaboration with others who have similar goals. Two recent projects the organization is trying to do include: 1) The Music & Literacy Promotion Project Understanding how shared reading and guided and free play with music, supports literacy skills in young children. 2) Trying to increase dental care referrals among preschools, kindergarten, and first grade: supply basic needs supports: such as a packet of dental care items for all income groups (in New Castle County) but especially for low income families affiliated with or graduating from Head Start programs 3) Youth Leadership with "Lotus Leaders" (accompanied by an Adult Volunteer for each of 5 students)