EduCare Foundation, a New Jersey-based philanthropic organization focused on children’s education in India and the US, hosted its Annual Gala on Sunday, December 15, 2024, at Royal Albert’s Palace in New Jersey (educarecharity.org).
According to organizers, the evening was a “resounding success” with EduCare surpassing its fundraising goal to support its mission of empowering underprivileged children through education.
The Grand Sponsor for the Gala, Sunil Bagaria, founder of GDB International, has been supporting EduCare for the past four years. Speaking during the event, Bagaria emphasized his belief that education is integral to preserving cultural values and nurturing a strong moral foundation for children. He and his wife Suman Bagaria were recognized for their outstanding contributions to EduCare’s mission. Bagaria, a leader in sustainability and recycling, has built a global company with a presence in 65 countries and employing 180 people, a press release noted.
“Our event would not have been possible without the generous support of Mr. and Mrs. Bagaria,” said an EduCare spokesperson quoted in the press release. “Their commitment to giving children a brighter future is truly inspiring.”
The evening’s Chief Guest, Padma Shri recipient Dr. Sudhir Parikh, shared heartfelt words about the power of education, commending EduCare for its exceptional work. Dr. Parikh noted that in his decades of philanthropy, he had emphasized the power of education, and he was honored to be attending the gala. “Education is the foundation of progress,” said Dr. Parikh. “EduCare is doing a phenomenal job, and I am grateful to be part of such a meaningful cause.”
Dr. Parikh, chairman of Parikh Worldwide Media and ITV Gold, is known for his numerous humanitarian initiatives, including the founding of Life Global, which has established 108 primary schools in Gujarat, India.
Founded in 1994, EduCare Foundation says it has touched the lives of more than 30,000 individuals worldwide, with a vision to create a world where every child has the opportunity to thrive.
The organization operates two scholarship programs in the United States and nine educational initiatives in India, focusing on providing children with the tools they need to succeed academically and personally.
One of the highlights of the Gala was the acknowledgment of EduCare’s landmark achievements, including youth volunteer leader Grishmaa Chaudhary with support from Vaanya Saxena and Parineel Gujjarapudi’s efforts in raising funds to advance the foundation’s programs. The funds raised at the Gala will directly benefit underprivileged children and communities, allowing EduCare to expand its digital learning initiatives and scholarship programs, the press release said.
Guests were treated to a performance by Foram Shah and her orchestra. The Gala was emceed by Piya Jyoti Kachroo, anchor and producer for ITV Gold and Parikh Worldwide Media.
EduCare Foundation says its mission is rooted in the belief that education is a powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty. Its programs in India include initiatives like equipping schools with robotics and computer labs, fostering innovation, and empowering students to dream big.
(Used with permission)