Counselors Helping (South) Asians / Indians

I want to thank everyone's efforts for a wonderful evening at the Gala! The speakers , Anirban Basu and Dharma Naik, were engaging, and the audiences learned about the work of CHAI, MCC Medical Clinic, and Dr. Rao's South Asian Clinic and research with the South Asian community. Best of all Swaran Dhawan, recipient of the Radha Pathak Humanitarian Award was truly surprised by the award- I think shocked was more like it.

The fundraising was a collaborative effort headed up by Soniya Malhotra and Bina Pancholi-Martin. Please join me in congratulating them on a job well done! Asma Shaik-Stewart, the chair of our education and outreach committee expressed heartfelt words about the joys of volunteering at health fairs and interacting with the community. I think she inspired a few people to join up and volunteer with us.

Anirban Basu had audience on edge with his economic and social perspective on the state of the economy, how we got here and where to go from here and through it all to support nonprofits who serve vulnerable populations. Our speaker from the Women's Group, Dhrama Naik, gave an insightful and inspirational testamonial about her experience from our 2007 CHAI Womens Wellness Group.

The artwork donated by our own intern, Nikki Modi, was a huge hit and Mr. Basu was one of the lucky winners of Nikki's original artwork. Lets, not forget Erin Cohen who was busy the entire evening running in every direction (along with Nikki)to make sure everything from ticket sales to photos and plaque presentation ran smoothly.

This could not have been done without the loving and generous support of all the volunteers, behind the scenes folks and your dedication to CHAI. Thanks for a successful event, that celebrated all the organizations and individuals working to help address mental health issues in the South Asian community.

We've come a long way, we have far to go and I'm so appreciative all of you have chosen to join this journey towards mental health and wellness as a caring community.

With, love, humility and gratitude,
Razia