AIF Creates “Opportunity” Through Goodwill

The American India Foundation‘s third annual benefit “Let’s Make a Change Together” was an evening dedicated to fostering opportunity. The sold-out event raised funds and awareness for SAATH, a Gujarat-based development NGO. Organized by AIF’s New York Young Professional Chapter, the event featured a rigorous itinerary and a delicious menu catered by top New York restaurant Mint.

The event began with cocktails and conversation in the eclectic foyer of the Prince George Ballroom. As the wine and Bulldog Gin (courtesy of Anshuman Vohra) flowed, guests participated in a silent auction that included everything from modern paintings to dance classes. The bidding continued into the main ballroom, where the evening’s top items – two passes to the set of Gossip Girl and a personal dinner prepared by celebrity chef Suvir Saran of Devi Restaurant– sold quickly.

Proceeds from the auction and ticket sales went toward SAATH and its UMEED: Youth Employability program. Dedicated to helping underprivileged young adults, it teaches them basic employment skills and helps them secure local jobs. According to UMEED’s website, the program has “placed over 10,000 students in three years in the Business Process Outsourcing, Information Technology Services, Hotel Management and Bedside Assistance, among other fields.”

AIF CEO Dr. Sanjay Sinho underlined the program’s importance to AIF. “The central essence of AIF and SAATH are about the word ‘opportunity,’” Singha said. ‘AIF is creating a bridge.”

Keynote speaker and Kansas Representative Raj Goyle also spoke about the unifying nature of charity. “You do things to make money and to make you happy,” Goyle said. “But as children of immigrants we know that at the end of the day what unites us all is that spirit of service.”

The speeches were followed by two high-octane dance performances by Infin8, a fusion dance troupe.

And the goodwill didn’t end there. Acclaimed New York restaurant, Mint provided savory hors d’oeurves and an expanded dinner buffet at the event. Chef and owner Gary Sikka served mouthwatering dishes like savory paneer and chicken curry. Dessert featured plump gulab jamun drenched in simple syrup.

The benefit ended on an energetic note as the DJ spun dance music into the night.

Photos courtesy of Appetite for Good and AIF

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