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NORTH AMERICAN Newsline DECEMBER 13, 2024 | The Indian Eye 26

Gratitude in Action: IACA & FIA Touch

Hearts at GiGi’s Playhouse Thanksgiving

OUR BUREAU
Chicago, IL
hanksgiving is a time to cele-
brate gratitude, kindness, and
Tcommunity—and this year,
the Federation of Indian Associa-
tions-Chicago (FIA) and the Indi-
an American Cultural Association
(IACA) came together to make it un-
forgettable for the children and fami-
lies of GiGi’s Playhouse in Aurora, IL
on Nov 27, 2024.
GiGi’s Playhouse, an incredible
achievement center for children and
adults with Down syndrome, pro-
vides free, transformative programs
that foster confidence, skills, and in-
dependence.
The noble cause of uplifting and
empowering these individuals served
as the heart of this Thanksgiving cel-
ebration, which was filled with com-
passion, joy, and the true spirit of
giving back.
The event, a beautiful Toy and
Food Drive, brought together vol- Leadership Team of FIA and IACA (Left to Right): President Pratibha Jairath, Executive Board Member Kamlesh Kapoor, Director Hemendra Shah,
unteers, leaders, and children for Vice President Sonia Luther, Founder and Chairman Sunil Shah, Jt. Secretary Falguni Sukhadia, President Vinita Gulabani, Secretary Shanu Sinha.
an evening of shared laughter and
heartfelt moments.
The cheerful sounds of children
engaging in games and activities
resonated throughout the room, re-
minding everyone of the strength of
love and inclusivity. Each smile, ev-
ery laugh, and the shared warmth re-
flected the essence of the season—a
celebration of humanity and togeth-
erness.
None of this would have been
possible without the remarkable ef-
forts of FIA Founder and Chairman
Sunil Shah, IACA President Vinita
Gulabani, and FIA President Prat-
ibha Jairath. Their dedication to
serving the community was evident
in every detail of the event, as they
worked tirelessly to create an inclu-
sive, welcoming space where every- Staff of Gigi’s Playhouse with Leadership team of IACA and FIA and special needs children receiving the gifts at Gigi’s playhouse
one felt valued and appreciated.
They were joined from by Exec. retary Shanu Sinha played an indis- of giving that filled every corner of The work done by these organization,
VP Elect Sonia Luther, Joint Sec- pensable role, coordinating with Gi- the facility room. year after year serves as a reminder
retary Falguni Sukhadia, Director Gi’s Playhouse to ensure every aspect The precious moments of joy and of the power and the beauty of com-
Hemendra Shah, and from IACA of the event was carefully planned, love that radiated from every smile ing together for a shared purpose. By
by Executive Board representative as it was high security facility. Exec. and hug in this special evening were partnering with GiGi’s Playhouse, an
Kamlesh Kapoor, whose heartfelt VP Elect (FIA) Chandini Duvvuri’s captured by FIA Secretary General organization that brings hope and
participation emphasized the deep efforts in purchasing toys from vari- Nilabh Dubey. empowerment to children and adults
commitment of both organizations ous stores, along with Shanu Sinha’s This Thanksgiving was more with Down syndrome, FIA and
to this beautiful and noble cause. collection and sourcing of additional than just an event—it was a heartfelt IACA demonstrated the extraordi-
Behind the scenes, IACA Sec- food items, reflected the real values expression of compassion and unity. nary impact of collective kindness.

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