India Home’s much-anticipated Annual Gala is set for Sunday, Oct. 5, in New York. This year’s event carries special significance as it marks the final year of fundraising for the South Asian Community Home (SACH) Center — a dedicated space designed for elders of South Asian heritage to gather, thrive, and receive culturally responsive care.
For nearly two decades, India Home has worked to create places of belonging for seniors, and with the SACH Center nearing completion, the vision of a permanent home is now within reach.
The Gala brings together support from across the South Asian diaspora and beyond, drawing elected officials, city leaders, and community advocates who recognize the urgency of this mission. More than a celebration, it reflects the community’s commitment to ensuring the dignity and well-being of its elders.
This year’s honorees include U.S. Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, recognized for their advocacy of India Home’s housing initiatives; Sunil K. Aggarwal, celebrated for his financial leadership and long-standing support; and Kavita Shah, whose work as Program Director has brought creativity, wellness, and joy into the lives of countless seniors. Their recognition underscores that the Gala is not only about raising funds, but also about honoring those whose contributions inspire lasting impact.
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Since its founding, India Home has become a cornerstone nonprofit for South Asian and Indo-Caribbean seniors across New York City. Immigration and shifting socioeconomic conditions have brought both opportunities and challenges for this community — from language barriers and separation from extended families to the difficulty of navigating life in a culture that often overlooks older adults.
India Home has stepped in to bridge those gaps with programs rooted in cultural familiarity and sensitivity. Congregate meals provide not just nutrition but also the comfort of familiar tastes. Creative aging initiatives — from art classes and dance workshops to yoga — offer outlets for expression and well-being. Seniors gather to celebrate festivals like Diwali and Eid, or to join group trips and activities that nourish both mind and spirit. Beyond celebration, India Home extends its reach through case management, advocacy, and educational workshops on health, nutrition, elder law, and financial safeguards.
The organization’s Annual Gala has long been central to sustaining this mission. More than a celebration, it serves as a vital fundraising engine that has fueled India Home’s growth year after year. That momentum now points toward the South Asian Community Home (SACH) Center — a vibrant hub designed to bring all of India Home’s services under one roof. When it opens, the SACH Center will be the first of its kind in New York: a culturally attuned space where South Asian elders can age with dignity, joy, and companionship. The center is envisioned not just as a physical space but as a symbol of recognition for seniors who have devoted their lives to building families, communities, and careers.
The impact of India Home’s work is perhaps best captured by its members. Many say the organization has transformed what could have been years of isolation into a season of growth and belonging. “Since joining India Home, my life has completely changed,” one senior reflected, pointing to the wide variety of programs that offer both cultural resonance and intellectual engagement. Another added, “When I came to this country, I was lost and lonely. India Home brings smiles and happiness to our faces.”
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These testimonials highlight the heart of India Home’s mission: to combat isolation, foster community, and remind seniors that they are deeply valued.
The Executive Director of India Home, Dr. Vasundhara Kalasapudi, often sums up the nonprofit’s mission in simple but powerful terms: “They have given all their life to their children and community… It’s time to give back.” The Annual Gala embodies that vision, serving as a space where gratitude turns into tangible support, stories of impact are celebrated, and the future for South Asian seniors feels within reach.
This year’s Gala promises more than a traditional fundraiser. The afternoon will feature cultural performances, music, and dance that showcase the artistic richness of the community. Guests will enjoy South Asian cuisine, opportunities to connect with community leaders and philanthropists, and an atmosphere of celebration and purpose. Sponsors will also receive recognition at multiple levels, aligning businesses and individuals with a cause that resonates widely.
India Home is inviting the community to join this milestone celebration on Oct. 5. By attending, supporters will not only enjoy an afternoon of culture and connection but also help ensure that South Asian seniors receive the care, dignity, and sense of belonging they deserve.
For more information, contact India Home at gala@indiahome.org or 917-834-7895, or visit www.indiahome.org.