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Chicago's Indian community gets new landmark hub

The inauguration of the National India Hub Foundation on June.15 marked a significant milestone for the diaspora, as it provides a comprehensive center for empowerment, support, and cultural enrichment.

Inauguration of the world's largest Indian community center. / Courtesy Photo

 

The National India Hub Foundation officially opened its doors in Schaumburg, Greater Chicago, on June.15, marking the inauguration of the world's largest Indian community center. The grand opening was attended by a host of dignitaries, including Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, Ambassador Dr Ausaf Sayeed, Consul General of India in Chicago Somnath Ghosh, and the Founding Chairman of National India Hub, Harish Kolasani, among others.

The grand opening was attended by a host of dignitaries / Courtesy photo

The center, situated in the heart of the Indian diaspora in Chicago, aims to serve the community with a multitude of services provided by over 60 dedicated organizations. These services range from preventive healthcare and mental health support to aid for domestic abuse survivors and sexual assault victims. Additionally, the center offers free CPR training, personality development programs, support for international students, business networking opportunities, diverse educational programs for children, and skill development programs for adults. Cultural activities, art classes, and recreational activities for seniors and youth are also part of the extensive list of services.

In his address, Harish Kolasani highlighted the collaborative efforts that made the center a reality and expressed gratitude towards Consul General Somnath Ghosh for initiating weekly Consular Camps for OCI applications at the center. This initiative aims to provide a comfortable and accessible location for the Indian diaspora to manage their consular needs.

The National India Hub has established partnerships with various service organizations and government agencies to implement impactful, permanent projects. Monthly mega programs such as health camps featuring multiple specialists, job fairs, blood drives, and legal and immigration clinics are set to benefit the community greatly. Business support chambers are also available to assist small and medium-sized business owners, along with skill development programs, senior care services, and matrimony services.

The center is also in the process of receiving a Guinness World Record for housing the highest number of service organizations under one roof. Additionally, plans are underway to install the world's largest permanent Indian flag outside India, further solidifying its status as a significant landmark.

During the launch, several key projects were announced. These included the US India Chamber of Commerce Chicago Chapter, the INDIA HUB Community Health & CPR Training Center by the Chicago Medical Society, which aims to save over a million lives through free CPR training, and the State of Illinois – South Asian Chamber of Commerce branch. Other notable initiatives are the Legal Clinic, Immigration Clinic, Mental Health Support Center, Domestic Abuse Support Center, and a senior recreation area spanning 22,000 square feet.

 

 

Several key projects were announced / Courtesy photo

The recreational facilities boast an impressive array of amenities, such as 45 carrom boards, 20 table tennis tables, 20 chess sets, and three billiards tables, designed to encourage community members to spend quality time away from screens and with family and friends. The center also features cubicles for 60 service organizations and several conference rooms and event halls, making it a versatile space for various community needs.

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