Hello, my name is Dilip Shah and I'm 62 years old. I have served on the EC board for the last 3 years.

Some of my hobbies include playing sports with my boys Rahul and Ronak, cooking sometimes and exploring national parks. Since childhood, my desire for volunteering and contributing to community service is everlasting. Before moving to LA, my family and I used to live in India and NY.

My aspiration for leadership & community service occurred after I got the opportunity to organize numerous events at Mulund, Bombay. Our committee used to organize fantastic big religious trips across India, handling over 2000 people. Likewise, I love contributing my time and leadership at the JCSC by helping out during big events like Mahavir Jayanti, Parna, Jaina, and many more. Some familiar areas of interest and expertise includes event decorations, food preparations, and much more. With my expertise and background, I very well know the dynamics and functions of JCSC and am confident that I am a suitable candidate for this year’s EC Elections.

Jai Jinendra,

My name is Jeet Mehta. I am currently an existing EC member finishing my term (2022-24) and looking to serve our Jain temple for another term. I live in Tustin Ranch with my wife Richa Mehta and two kids (Rajas and Jiya Mehta). Professionally, I’m in IT management role working for a manufacturing company.

My family and I have been blessed to be part of Jain temple from last 20 years via Pathshala and various cultural activities. I have participated and contributed in numerous roles at Jain Center listed below:

• Serving currently as a EC member and involved in various sub-committees and activities such as Pathshala Parent Volunteer, Dignitary Support, Cultural event and fund raising support.
• JCYC Winter Camp Volunteer.
• Volunteer in various sub-committees in Jaina Convention 2019.
• Lead Volunteer in US State delegation welcome in temple this year.
• Active volunteer in various activities at Jain Center.

Being a committed volunteer, I’m seeking to serve another term as a EC member with all your support.

Always in Seva,

Regards
Jeet Mehta

Dear Fellow JCSC Members,

Jai Jinendra!

My name is Shailesh Mehta. As a seasoned engineer with a strong background in the aerospace industry, I possess a unique blend of technical expertise and global leadership experience. Professionally, I manage and enhance supplier relationships worldwide, honing my skills in strategic partnership-building, cross-cultural communication, and results-driven collaboration.

Combining this expertise with a lifelong commitment to our beloved Jain Center, I am well-positioned to serve our community. I've supported our community with Tan (body), Man (mind), and Dhan (resources) since its inception.

For the past 16 years, my Seva journey has included:

• Pathshala Traffic Safety Team Lead
• JCSC Maintenance Committee
• Winter Camps support
• JAINA Event Registration and Security duties
• Managing additional parking needs and other organizational activities during special events

As an Executive Committee member (2023-2024), I:

• Served as Pathshala Liaison, ensuring seamless activity and event coordination, communication, and EC approvals
• Contributed to structuring and updating Pathshala SOP for efficient operations
• Participated in various capacities during MJK, Anniversary, and Paryushan Mahaparve celebrations, contributing to their overall success
• Contributed to fundraising efforts during major events
• Provided constructive recommendations and insights, aiming to streamline processes and drive growth
• Presented member concerns and provided constructive feedback to drive positive change

I am proud to reapply for the EC position, leveraging my skills and experience, to continue serving our community, fostering growth, collaboration, and enriching our Jain Center. My commitment to seva remains unwavering.

I would be honored to have your support in this election. Together, we can work towards a brighter future for our community.

In your Seva,
Shailesh Mehta

Pranam and Jai Jinendra,

My name is Chintan Shah, a candidate for JCSC EC position.

My family and I moved from Ahmedabad, India, to Orange County, California 15 years ago. I run a small manufacturing business near Victor Valley.

For the last 15 years, I have been part of our Jain Center community and have been a lifetime member for the past 7 years. This Center has truly become a second home for my family, which include my wife, Rajal, our two sons, Dhruv and Aum, and my parents, Rajeshbhai and Shilpaben. Both Dhruv and Aum attend Pathshala, where they are growing in their understanding of Jainism and our culture—helping them become compassionate, responsible individuals.

The Jain Center has done so much for our community, and I am eager to give back through seva in the years to come. As our Center continues to grow, we need a blend of youthful energy and experienced guidance to take our community into its next phase of development. I am looking forward to your support to join EC so I can contribute actively to the continued success and vibrancy of our Jain Center.

Thank you for your time and your consideration.

Chintan Shah
714-299-2931
Chintu_shah_9@hotmail.com

“It’s never about me; it’s always about US.”

Jai Jinendra,

My name is Pinkal Doshi. I studied for a Bachelor of Commerce degree in India, and I am a dedicated mother of two sons. For over 18 years, my family and I have been actively involved with the Jain Center of Southern California (JCSC), embracing the values and practices of our faith while contributing to the community. As a proud member of JCSC, I am committed to serving and supporting the Jain Center and the Jain community in any way I can.

Besides assisting my husband in his business, I am also an artist and an active member of KalaCircle, where I find joy in expressing creativity and connecting with others through art. During the quarantine period of COVID, we arranged an online art workshop, hoping to bring engagement to our community in challenging times. I am equally committed to the Green Culture initiative, promoting sustainable practices, which aligns with the values of respect and stewardship that Jainism teaches. Over the years, I have also volunteered extensively at JCSC, whether it was helping in the kitchen, Swami Vatsalya, crafting Sidhchakraji, or helping Deraser in several areas like decorations, rangoli, and aangi in Paryushan.

Over the years, my family has shared this journey with me, making our connection to JCSC deeply meaningful. I feel immensely fortunate to have the full support of my husband, Tejas, and my two sons, Sahil and Sanil, as I dedicate myself to serving JCSC. This EC position would allow me to bring my passion, skills, and dedication to JCSC, knowing that my family stands firmly behind me in this endeavor.

As a family, we have opened our home and hearts to our community. We hosted Chaitya Paripati gatherings twice at our home, creating a warm and welcoming environment where friends, family, and community members could come together to celebrate and strengthen our bonds.

I am known for my analytical skills, dependability, and responsible approach to every task I undertake. My work ethic is rooted in fairness, honesty, and a commitment to excellence. I approach each responsibility with dedication, striving to complete tasks thoroughly and with integrity. I firmly believe in transparency and open communication, as I value the trust and respect of those around me.

Being a part of JCSC has enriched my life in countless ways, and I am truly inspired by the opportunity to contribute even more. I am eager to bring my skills, passion, and love for our community to this role, and I look forward to working closely with others who share my dedication to upholding our Jain values. I am fully committed to making a positive and lasting impact at the Jain Center of Southern California. I aspire to inspire my children and future generations to cherish and serve the Jain community with the same dedication and love I hold.

Thank You,
Pinkal Doshi

Jai Jinendra,

My name is Biren Vadecha, a candidate for JCSC EC Position.

Having Been part of the Jain center for the past 15 years, I have a feeling that people within the community matter to one another with a shared understanding that their needs can be met through.commitment and togetherness. Being a part of a community makes me feel as though I am a part of something great community.

The center has supported my family's religious journey and plays a vital role in our lives. During my 15 years of life time membership i served in following areas:

• Food committee
• Pathashala events
• Volunteer work as needed

As a successful business man , I have developed many skills like Reliability, Teamwork, Patience, Positive attitude, Organised, Clear communication. Using this skills i wanted to support growing community in:

• Leading and overseeing all strategic planning and decision-making processes for the organization
• Collaborate with other EC members to plan events, develop programs, their goals and objectives for the organization
• Represent the organization at events and meetings

Jain Center of Southern California is a Umbrella organization with the mission to preserve, practice and promote Jain Dharma and Jain Way of life, and I am eager to join this organization and provide my seva in upcoming years.

If given a chance to be an EC member, I am confident in my ability to contribute effectively in the EC role.

Thanks,
Yours sincerely,
Biren Vadecha
714-726-5327

Jai jinendra

My name is Jignesh Mehta .I have been a pharmacist for 30+ years by profession and own my own pharmacy business. While also practicing pharmacy I also loved to spread my knowledge and ideas by participating in different activities in school to colleges , non profits . During Pandemic we did lots of vaccination camps in our community and also bringing other communities together. At my business as a pharmacy owner I do work also as an educator for younger generations as these are our future. Here at our temple I bring the same values and experience of bringing people and their ideas together.By running my own business I became a leader which skills I use as a lot of work involves bringing people together, make interactions with different age groups and understanding their needs which I bring to our Jain temple.

During my time at temple, I have been actively volunteering and helping where I can and eventually serving as an EC member. In this position I was able to serve the community greatly and use my Jain values and experiences to bring community together by taking on the challenging task of lunch ( food) at our temple, one of the biggest tasks which came with many challenges , was to keep everyone happy from our kids to our seniors, also setting systems in place for running the kitchen smoothly as possible . Using my values , talked to our community and to the best of my ability was able to bring satisfaction to our community.

Another great successful event was Jaina in Los Angeles where I was able to serve and help with our Jain community volunteers . I was able to hear it from the community despite it being a large event and many expecting the best and it actually turned out to be one of the biggest and most successful memorable Jaina event . I would like to continue participating and leading as needed in these kind of successful events and be part of this great community by bringing together the community in any way I can .

I want to use my experience to help our community grow by creating a place where the old and young can smile and better experience their culture by giving their rightful rights given by our By- laws at JCSC . I believe JCSC needs lots of reforms and opportunities for the youth to take care of the center for the next generation.

Objective
To renew my current EC membership for new term (2025-2027); and continue my efforts for continuous improvement and progress for all of our current activities at Jain Center of Southern California (JCSC).

Background
I have been life member of JCSC for last 20+ years. My family believes Jain center as our "Eternal home". We are fortunate to be part of JCSC family.

Experience
In past 25 years, I have been working voluntarily with various committees at temple with various presidents and volunteers.

Accomplishments

• Involved in leading various cultural programs
• Involved in various financial raising goals for center
• Worked with various committees of temple.
• Winter camp core team member.
• Many other small and big projects at deraser.

I am always available to serve our community "Taan, Maan and Dhaan"

Yours,
Kaushal Shah

Jai Jinendra,

I am Kauti Mahendra Shah. I have been attached to our temple, our Jain center and our community for almost 21 years. Born and raised in a family where Jain religion comes first. Immigrated to the US 21 years back from Ahmedabad, Gujrat. I pursue my career in the hospitality management business.

My Grandfather was very much involved in establishing and managing Jain derasar in Ahmedabad. My Father Dr. Mahendra Shah is following his legacy. He was very much involved in establishing and managing Jain Derasar In our society in Ahmedabad and He is very much involved in our Derasar and Jain center. He was an EC Member, served as V.P and BOD member. He is the Religious Committee Chairman. My Mother Niru Shah is active in Mahila mandal, derasar activity and was helping in the Kitchen area. My wife Rupina Shah is very active in Mahila Mandal, derasar activity and other areas of jain center. My both daughters are involved in pathshala activity and religious activity.

As I mentioned, I have been very much attached to our temple and center for about 21 years but since the last 10 years I have been more active in different areas. Most of the big religious events happen in temple like dhwaja change ceremony, Idole paxal puja ceremony, many big puja ceremonies, Mahavir Janam celebration day on stage, Procession events. I am there to help. In the JAINA event I was a member of the registration committee and also our group performed a dance on stage."

I was helping in Bhandar counting, I am member of traffic and safety committee. I am there to serve food in events like Mahavir Janam or sakal sangh lunch or dinner time, Ayubil ni oli time or ekasana time. I have helped in numerous winter camps for kids and I am A Gujrati teacher for G5 Class.

Jain center is our second home. Until right now I was there to help but now I want to help with Responsibility as an EC member. We want our center to thrive and I want to be there in whatever capacity I can.

I need your vote and support.

Thank you,
Kauti Shah

Jai Jinendra

I have been a JCSC member for 19 years, and a JCSC volunteer for last 6 years. My daughter is a JCYC student and my wife is a JCYC teacher. We live in Tustin and you can often nd me at the temple on Pathshala days. By profession, I am a technology executive at a Healthcare IT company.

Along with other JCSC volunteers, I help our center with -

• Setup and administration of the networking and Wi-Fi
• Management of our temple’s online services such as Spectrum Internet, Zoom
• Management of TVs, Computers, Printers, Software related matters at the center
• Annual enrollment of teachers and students for Pathshala Google Workspace

Why do I want to join the Executive Committee?

I want to help improve how we operate, so that more people are willing and able to participate. I am good with technology and I have a professional background of leading small and large teams through growth and efciency transformations.

I want to try using technology to increase community member communication and engagement, improve our operational efciency and reduce our volunteers’ burden of time and efforts. I want to join other EC members in adapting our center to the needs of our community while preserving our values. I want to do my part in keeping our culture alive and help transition our center to the next generation.

Jai Jinendra, I am Nishith Modi, and I am truly honored to be running for the Executive Committee at our beloved Jain Center

Having been a part of the Jain Center for the past 15 years, it has become an integral part of my life. The center has supported my family’s religious journey and plays a vital role in our lives. It has been my privilege to be a part of this community and a life member of JCSC since 2009 and have contributed to various committees, including –

• JCSC Executive Committee (EC)
• JCSC Food Committee
• JCSC Maintenance committee
• Jaina Regional Director for “MAIN HOO NA” program for LA and Orange County.

During my tenure as an EC member from 2022-2024, I got opportunities to serve our community in the following areas:

• Helping in religious activities – Anniversary Program, 18 Abhisheks and Paryushan activities
• Serving food during Ekasana, Ayambil Oli, and Swamivatsalya
• Helping treasurer in Counting Bhandar
• Record keeping of Nakaro & Ghee boli during Paryushan, Anniversary, and other events
• Assistant to Treasure office---2022
• Helping Students coming from India in Orange County.

I have been honored to serve as the JCSC Executive Committee member since 2022, marking my second term in this role. Through these experiences, I've come to appreciate the immense dedication and effort it takes to maintain the functioning of our Jain center. I find great fulfillment in my role as an Executive Committee member and am enthusiastic about continuing my contributions. If I am elected with your support and blessings, I am eager to extend my commitment for the next two years to Strengthening Our Spiritual Practices, Empowering Our Youth, Community Engagement and Service, Preserving and Promoting Jain Values, taking on even greater responsibilities as your Executive Committee Member

As our center undergoes expansion, we are presented with many challenges and opportunities. Some of these include -

• Sustainable fundraising
• Encouraging youth participation
• Advancing Phase III development
• Promoting inclusivity & equanimity for all sects practicing Jainism

As a member of the JCSC Executive Committee, I will be poised to contribute meaningfully to these challenges and opportunities, striving to make a significant difference.

I have experience and dedication to serving our Jain center by Tan, Man, and Dhan for its success and progress.

I am counting on your vote in getting elected, so please vote for me.

Please contact me at 714-357-3943 or nishth66@gmail.com, Should you have any questions.

Thank you for your time and your consideration.

Always in your Seva,
Nishith Modi

Jai Jinendra & Pranam,

I, Ritesh Desai, am applying for an Executive Committee (EC) position for the term 2025-2026.

I have lived in the City of Glendale (La Crescenta area) with my wife Poonam and two daughters Preet and Diya for 20+ years. Professionally, I have spent more than two decades in the real estate industry, holding various leadership positions.

We are very blessed and fortunate to be part of this magnificent Jain Center since 2001. This center has played a pivotal role and provided immense support by strengthening the Jain values to help our family grow spiritually through various activities like attending Adult Swadhya, JCYC Pathshala, Shibirs, Aayambil Oli, etc. Both of my daughters have attended JCYC Pathshala for 15+ years and have actively served in the JCYC Club house at various leadership positions.

We are strongly committed to continue to do Seva with Tan, Man and Dhan for the growth and success of our Jain Center.

My Contributions and Experience

• Active EC Member (current term).
• Active Member of JCSC Food and Kitchen committee.
• Coordinator for JCYC Pathshala Lunches: For the past 5 years, I have coordinated lunches for Pathshala, working closely with parents, volunteers, and other groups at JCSC.
• Election Committee Chair: In 2023, I chaired the Election Committee for JCSC BOD & EC elections, achieving a record voter turnout (60%)— the highest in JCSC history.
• Volunteer at 2019 JAINA Convention: Contributed to the Registration Committee and supported procession, cultural and food committee.
• Active Volunteer: I have volunteered in numerous JCSC events including Paryushan, Aayambil Oli, Anniversary Programs, MJK Celebrations and JCYC Winter Camp.

As I seek re-election, my primary goal is to continue serving selflessly for the overall growth and betterment of our Jain Center. I would like to connect, engage with the maximum members of Jain Center, especially young parents and youth, to encourage their active participation in all JCSC activities.

I humbly request your vote and support in my continued seva to our Jain Center.

Thank you

Qualifications:
Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.)
PhD in Shree Bhaktamar Stotra

Profession:
Owner and Founder, DiaCare Pharmacy
President, J11 Consulting Inc.
President, FPM Technologies

Years of Service at Jain Center: Over 13 years

Why I Am the Right Choice for the Executive Committee

I have been an active member of our Jain Center for over 13 years, contributing to initiatives that foster spiritual growth, community involvement, and cultural preservation. With experience in the pharmaceutical and technology sectors, I bring strong skills in leadership, problem-solving, and community development. I am committed to merging Jain values with modern strategies to ensure the Jain Center's continued success for future generations.

1. Proven Leadership and Professional Experience
As the owner and founder of DiaCare Pharmacy and President of J11 Consulting Inc. and FPM Technologies, I have gained valuable experience in leadership, team management, and organizational growth. I've built businesses and managed teams, creating lasting change in both small and large-scale operations. At DiaCare Pharmacy, we live by Jain principles by offering free medications to those in need, showing my commitment to compassionate service. With J11 Consulting and FPM Technologies, I've created tech-based solutions that promote long-term sustainability-an approach I will bring to our Jain Center.

2. Deep Spiritual Commitment to Jainism
I am not only a member of our Jain community but an active practitioner. I recently completed the Mas-Kshaman (30-day fasting) as a testament to my commitment to non-violence and self-discipline. My PhD research on Shree Bhaktamar Stotra bridges ancient Jain practices with modern healing methods, demonstrating how tradition can meet contemporary needs to benefit both our physical and spiritual well-being.

3. A Vision for Empowering the Next Generation
The future of our Jain community lies in our youth. I am dedicated to creating educational programs that combine Jain teachings with engaging, hands-on activities. By fostering youth leadership, I will encourage younger members to take active roles in the Jain Center, preparing them to be the compassionate, responsible leaders of tomorrow.

4. Promoting Unity Across All Sects
Coming from a family rooted in Shwetambar Deravasi, Shwetambar Sthanakvasi, and Digambar traditions, I understand the importance of unity in diversity. I am committed to creating spaces where all members feel a sense of belonging, regardless of sect. I will organize cross-sect events and social gatherings to strengthen relationships and build a cohesive community.

5. Practical Experience in Community Service
Service is at the core of Jainism. I will prioritize charity drives, volunteer opportunities, and community clean-up efforts, enabling us to live out our Jain values. I want our Jain Center to be a hub for selfless service, where members-especially youth-can engage in initiatives that benefit both our community and the larger society.

Key Initiatives I Will Champion as EC Member

• Expand Educational and Cultural Programs: Develop programs for all age groups to deepen our understanding of Jain philosophy, meditation, and ethical living. • Enhance Youth Leadership and Involvement: Provide platforms for youth to take leadership roles and actively plan and lead community events.
• Strengthen Community Bonds: Organize family retreats, social gatherings, and inter-sect collaborations to build unity and belonging across all sects.
• Increase Access to Spiritual Resources: Develop a digital library of Jain scriptures, lectures, and meditation guides for easy access.
• Lead Service-Oriented Initiatives: Drive charity events, outreach, and volunteer programs that help us live Jain principles of compassion and non-violence.

Community Engagement

• Active Member: Over 13 years of involvement in the Jain Center, leading spiritual and cultural initiatives.
• Spiritual Leadership: Organized online workshops during the COVID-19 pandemic to keep the community spiritually connected.
• Service-Oriented Projects: Led charitable initiatives, including free medication programs and community service projects.

Why Choose Me Over Other Candidates?

• Proven Leadership: I bring decades of experience managing organizations, ensuring our Jain Center operates effectively and efficiently.
• A Vision for the Future: My approach blends Jain traditions with modern leadership practices, ensuring we remain rooted in our values while embracing growth.
• Commitment to Community and Service: My focus is on both the spiritual growth and practical needs of our community, ensuring everyone feels valued and engaged.

Conclusion
I am committed to making our Jain Center a place of spiritual growth, cultural enrichment, and service. With your support, I will work tirelessly to build a united, compassionate Jain community for generations to come. I humbly ask for your vote and the opportunity to serve.

Thank you,
Dr. Rina Shah