Federation of Indian Associations to celebrate 10th anniversary Aug. 16

The Federation of Indian Associations Chicago will celebrate its 10th anniversary and India's 73rd Independence Day at an Awards Gala Night Friday, Aug. 16, in Rolling Meadows.

The event also will award the contributions of individuals and organizations in a variety of categories for which voting is still open on the federation's website at fia-il.org.

The gala begins at 6 p.m. at The Meadows Club, 2950 Golf Road. Different ticket levels are available for $55 and $100 each.

Founder President Sunil Shah of Schaumburg recalled the inspiration for the Elmhurst-based foundation.

"What we wanted to do was bring all the associations under one roof to promote our arts, our culture and our Indian traditions," Shah said. "We not only reach out to the Indian community but the community at large."

Examples of the latter efforts include clothing donation and toy drives, senior lunches, food distribution drives, fundraising for fire victims and other families in need, political fundraising and a free health care camp.

Among the larger events have been celebrations of India's Independence and Republic days. The federation has also held Diwali and Eid celebrations.

Given the federation's good relations with area governments, it has also been able to play a role on immigration issues and to be of assistance with visas, Shah said.

The federation now represents more than 150,000 Indians in the greater Chicago area and the near Midwest.

The awards being presented at the gala include Best Community Service by a man, woman and organization, Couple of the Decade, Best Entertainer, Best Medical Professional, Best Services Organization, Entrepreneur of the Decade, Friends of Indian Community, Most Popular Restaurant and Young All Round Rising Star.

For more information on tickets, contact Shah at (847) 309-4462, President Ninad Daftari at (630) 514-8427 or Founder & Past President Onkar Singh Sangha at (630) 674-2052.