By: Jayanti Oza

Metropolitan Asian Family Services (MAFS) celebrated its thirty-third year of service with a grand Annual Gala at The Matrix Club in Naperville. More than eight hundred guests representing Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Middle Eastern, European, and Hispanic communities gathered with elected officials, dignitaries, and civic leaders for an evening dedicated to cultural unity and senior care advocacy.

Distinguished attendees included Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, Illinois State Representatives Michelle Mussman and Hoan Huynh, Illinois Department on Aging Director Mary Killough, AgeGuide Executive Director Marla Fronczak, Barrington Mayor Paula McCombie, Aurora Alderwoman Sweta Baid, Streamwood Park District Commissioner Raees Yawer, and several community and spiritual leaders.

A cultural celebration rich in artistry

The five-hour program opened with a ceremonial lamp lighting led by Dr. Santosh Kumar, Executive Director of MAFS, joined by Acharya Prayagraj Hule and MAFS Board members. Vedic mantras and a graceful Ganesh Vandana by NNA Academy artists created a serene beginning to the evening.

Entertainment remained at the heart of the gala. Niche Entertainment, Inc. presented an emotional musical tribute to Bollywood legend Raj Kapoor, recreating iconic melodies that captivated the audience with nostalgia and cinematic charm. Acclaimed artist Madhura Sane added further brilliance with her dance presentation, A Journey in Rhythm, earning enthusiastic applause for her expressive choreography.

Leadership messages and urgent community needs

In her welcome remarks, Dr. Kumar reflected on MAFS’s journey and the crucial role community support plays in sustaining senior programs. While government grants provide foundational assistance, she noted that public generosity helps bridge essential gaps. Director Mary Killough delivered a compelling keynote on the same evening that SNAP benefit cuts took effect, warning that many seniors and families would face heightened food insecurity. She commended MAFS for ensuring that older adults continue to receive at least one nutritious meal each day.

Congressman Krishnamoorthi praised Dr. Kumar as “a saintly leader” and added humor as he encouraged the audience to “dial 1-800-Santosh” in moments of need. He also highlighted the growing impact of the South Asian American community and reaffirmed his commitment to protecting vulnerable populations.

Showcasing milestones and achievements

Grants Director Roshita Pandey presented MAFS’s annual impact report, detailing progress across Adult Day Services, Homecare, and caregiver initiatives. She highlighted a partnership with the University of Illinois at Chicago that produced culturally tailored dementia-caregiver resources for South Asian families. She also emphasized the organization’s May twenty-eighth advocacy push to protect the Older Americans Act and urged continued public engagement as federal funds face new pressure.

Honoring partners and supporters

Operations Director Sagar Kumar and HR Director Dipangi Pandya Kumar presented Community Awards recognizing outstanding service. Mayor Paula McCombie received the Business Leadership Award, Marla Fronczak was honored with the Partnership Award, and the late Dr. Shriram Sonty of the Gandhi Memorial Foundation received the Promod Kumar Philanthropy Award. Sponsors including Wintrust Community Bank, Mode Architects and Builders, and U.S. Bank were also acknowledged.

A united call for support

MAFS Board Member Dr. Asthana and Dr. Monali Desai urged guests to continue supporting senior programs amid budget challenges. Their appeal resonated strongly, helping MAFS meet its fundraising goals for the evening.

With engaging emceeing by Madhura Sane and Dipangi Pandya Kumar, the gala left guests inspired by its blend of cultural artistry, community spirit, and heartfelt philanthropy. The celebration reaffirmed MAFS’s essential role in uplifting seniors and strengthening families across diverse communities.