Our Mission & Vision
Shanthi Project is a 501(c)(3) education nonprofit providing evidence-based mindfulness services to more than 4,000 children and adults annually across the Greater Lehigh Valley. Shanthi Project currently provides mindfulness and therapeutic yoga programs throughout Lehigh and Northampton County, Pennsylvania. Founded in 2010 by Denise Veres, our programs were based on clinical research of trauma’s impact on incarcerated youth populations. Denise's vision grew as the science improved and the need increased across traditional and non-traditional groups. Today, our efforts address the social-emotional needs of all youth and adults with a demand for our services.
Through yoga postures, breath awareness, understanding the brain, and new tools to control strong emotions, our students learn valuable coping skills, plus the physical benefits of strength, balance and flexibility that a yoga practice can provide.
93.8% of participating teachers at Mosser Elementary School reported seeing an increase in "acts of kindness" after just
one eight-week mindfulness session.
Our Anti-Racism Commitment
We recognize the severe mental and physical health impact of oppression, structural racism, and systemic trauma that is epidemic in our communities, and specifically in our communities of color.
As we examine our work at Shanthi Project, we are reminded that mindfulness helps foster kindness, compassion, and empathy for ourselves and others.