By: Jayanti Oza

Kadva Patidar Samaj (KPS) Chicago successfully organized its 5K Walkathon and Annual Picnic on June 28, 2025, bringing together hundreds of community members for a day dedicated to fitness, philanthropy, fellowship, and family fun at Busse Woods Forest Preserve in Elk Grove Village.

The day began with the 5K Walkathon at Grove 5, where nearly 40 KPS youth enthusiastically participated. The event was organized to raise funds for Param Sukh Jivan Vikas Kendra, an India-based non-profit organization and spiritual wellness platform founded by Param Pujya Gurudev Shree Pankajbhai. For the past 18 years, the organization has worked to transform lives through a unique blend of spirituality and scientific principles that promote holistic well-being.

The Walkathon commenced at 8:30 a.m. and concluded at 9:45 a.m. The first twelve finishers were recognized with prizes for their outstanding performance. Participants expressed great enthusiasm for the event and many of the youth pledged to return next year, not only as runners but also as volunteers. The organizers also acknowledged the generous financial support received from the KPS community, whose donations contributed to the success of the fundraising initiative.

Following the Walkathon, the festivities continued with the annual KPS Picnic at Busse Woods Grove 6, where more than 700 KPS members, families, and friends gathered to celebrate community spirit and strengthen social bonds.

Guests were treated to a wide variety of traditional breakfast favorites, including donuts and munchkins, methi na gota with kadhi chutney, fried green chilies and onions, tea and coffee, aloo tikki chaat, and nachos with cheese. Throughout the afternoon, fresh corn, watermelon, and Vadilal ice cream were served, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Children enjoyed an exciting lineup of games and activities, with 25 young participants receiving gift cards as prizes. The event also received generous support from community donors, reflecting the strong tradition of volunteerism and giving within the Kadva Patidar community.

As the day progressed, members gathered for the Aarti of Shree Umiya Mataji, creating a spiritually uplifting atmosphere before concluding the celebration with a traditional Gujarati dinner featuring Mohanthal, Ringan-Bataka-Tuvar Nu Shak, Puri, Khichadi, Papad, Mango Athanu, and Masala Chaas.

The picnic concluded at 6:30 p.m., leaving participants with cherished memories of a day filled with community service, recreation, delicious food, and cultural fellowship.

The organizers extended their heartfelt appreciation to all KPS members and guests for their enthusiastic participation. Special thanks were also expressed to the KPS Executive Committee, Board of Directors, Trustees, Advisory Committee, and the many volunteers whose dedication and teamwork made the 2025 Walkathon and Picnic a memorable success.