Chicago, March 8 (IANS): The city of Aurora in Illinois is seeking volunteers to serve on what officials believe is the state's first municipally-sponsored board aimed at helping to promote Indian American culture.

The newly-formed Indian American Community Outreach Advisory Board is a non-partisan, community-based panel that will promote civic engagement and community participation, according to Chicago Tribune.

Residents interested in volunteering do not have to be of Indian American descent to serve, but they should demonstrate dedication to the city, work or own a business in Aurora, or be a member of a local community organisation that serves Aurora residents.

Mayor Tom Weisner praised Aurora's Indian American leaders for their desire to become more involved in civic activities, the Tribune said.

"We look forward to working with you going forward to create a better community, as well as educate the rest of our population to all of the positive cultural benefits that you bring to our city," Weisner was quoted as saying.

The Indian American Community Outreach Advisory Board's mission is to serve as a bridge between the Indian American community and all other communities in Aurora.

-Build higher levels of civic engagement between local government entities and the Indian American community.

-Provide opportunities in local and international economic development efforts for Aurora's current Indian American residents and businesses.

-Embrace the Indian American community into Aurora's cultural outreach efforts including welcoming exchange students, visiting dignitaries, cultural events, and others.

Krishna Bansal, a business owner and active community leader in Aurora told the Tribune: "The new advisory board will ensure Indian Americans and other ethnic communities feel at home in Aurora and become part of the city fabric."

The city will seek an initial group of nine members who will be tasked with establishing the board before filling all 18 seats, it said.