Los Angeles, California, USA - Volunteers in Los Angeles celebrated the International Day of Peace at the Los Angeles on Sunday morning, September 21 with his Holiness Vishwaguru Paramhans Swami Maheshwarananda. A speech contest for children in four age categories was held with the topic "What makes an ideal family?" and Volunteers signed up for Red Cross blood drive.
All in attendance were impressed at the poise of the young participants and inspired at their depth of understanding the value of family. Ms. Norma Foster, President of the United Nations Association in Los Angeles, brought with her His Holiness Vishwaguru Paramhans Swami Maheshwarananda, who is a Yoga Master and the International Peace Ambassador and Humanitarian of Rajasthan, India. He was on a worldwide Peace Tour, Los Angeles being his last stop. He gave a short talk and blessing and then received an Ambassador for Peace certificate. He was delighted to hear the children express their thoughts about the value of families, and he made a point of greeting them after the service.
In addition, a drawing contest for children was held. The foyer was lined with over 40 wonderful pictures depicting model families and "the UN International Day of Peace" – the work of some very talented young artists in the Los Angeles community.
Finally, people were invited to participate in a Red Cross blood drive to help those afflicted by disasters. An information and sign-up table made it possible for volunteers to register to donate blood during the coming week.
To read UPF's Peace Declaration and reports of observances in other nations, click here.