The Connecticut chapter of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO-CT) hosted a fundraiser as part of its holiday party.
Aimed at supporting the Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants (CIRI), the event generated $5,000 in funds. The CIRI is a statewide nonprofit organization that provides necessary assistance for refugees and immigrants.
Following the fundraiser, the chapter presented a cheque to Susan Schnitzer, president and CEO of CIRI to acknowledge the organization's ongoing efforts in aiding refugees and immigrants.
GOPIO-CT also extended donations to two other organizations - Future 5 and Women’s Mentoring Network. The organization has been supporting the two groups since 2016 to laud their efforts in making a positive impact in the community.
The holiday party commenced with a welcome speech from GOPIO-CT president Dr. Jaya Daptardar. The event recognized professor Sujatha Gadkar-Wilcox, a GOPIO-CT board member and Quinnipiac University professor, for her appointment as a commissioner at the Connecticut Human Rights Commission by Governor Ned Lamont. Gadkar-Wilcox's expertise spans both constitutional and international law.
GOPIO-CT bestowed the Liberty Award 2023 upon its former president, Anita Bhat, during the event in recognition of her community leadership and dedicated service to GOPIO for over a dozen years.
In addition, GOPIO-CT reelected its team for 2024 at the general body meeting preceding the holiday party. The elected members include Jaya Daptardar as president; Mahesh Jhangiani as executive vice president; Prachi Narayan as vice president; Sushanth Krishnamurthy as secretary; Ashvini Persaud as associate secretary; and Srinivas Akarapu as treasurer.
The General Body also elected Thomas Abraham and Totty Narang as trustees, with Abraham taking the position of chair.
GOPIO is an international network comprising People of Indian origin (PIO). It was established during the First Global Convention of People of Indian Origin held in New York City in 1989. GOPIO's primary focus has been addressing human rights violations against people of Indian origin.
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