Swechha symbolizes the power of youth, the spirit of selfless service and the passion by which to follow one's dreams. It started as a campaign by young people to raise awareness about River Yamuna and to sensitize the masses about the consequences of their actions on the river that they worship as a goddess. Within months, the campaign was able to mobilize more than 500 volunteers who became one of the strongest voices on Yamuna in Delhi; eventually growing into a full-fledged NGO. A number of street plays,photo exhibitions, film screenings, workshops and public meetings were held in various schools and colleges to enhance the visibility for the cause. The objective in the long run was to create a healthier social environment and to re-establish our connection not only with the river but also with the environment.An opportunity in this direction was provided to us by the United Nations Volunteers (UNV), administered by the United Nations Development Program. The year 2001, was declared as the International Year of Volunteers (IYV) by the United Nations General Assembly for increasing the recognition, facilitation and promotion of volunteering. UNV was designated as its focal point. Since then we have been working in close partnership with the UNV and our movement has come to incorporate a number of social, cultural and environmental issues.