A California high-school student has founded a nonprofit to support children with neurological differences, with the organisation now counting more than 500 members across 15 chapters.
Nithya Ravuri, a senior at Emerald High School in Dublin, in the East Bay, established SEVAH Neuro to advocate for children with autism, Down syndrome and other conditions while developing tools and resources for them and their families.
What began as a local project has expanded into a wider network supporting neurodivergent children and young people. SEVAH Neuro describes itself as a student-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on paediatrics, neuroscience and youth empowerment.
Ravuri was inspired to develop the initiative after shadowing occupational and paediatric therapists and working with children with conditions including autism and Down syndrome. She was told by parents that specialised learning materials could be difficult to afford and that many children faced social isolation.
In response, she began creating tailored educational resources before turning the project into a formal organisation. The group’s work now includes advocacy, community support and efforts to make learning and social opportunities more accessible.
SEVAH Neuro has also developed a five-week online paediatric neuroinclusion programme, offering life-skills lessons and organised social activities for more than 400 neurodivergent children, according to reports about the organisation.
The nonprofit has expanded beyond the Bay Area, with chapters reported in the United States and several other countries. Ravuri and her fellow student organisers have also taken part in efforts to raise awareness of neuroinclusion and encourage greater support for children and families.
Its growth comes as Ravuri completes her final year at Emerald High School, having built an organisation intended to give children with neurological differences greater opportunities, practical support and a stronger sense of connection.
