GOPIO-CT celebrated Diwali by donating $25,000 to the Children’s Learning Center, emphasizing community service and cultural unity in Stamford, Connecticut.
Stamford, CT – In a vibrant celebration of Diwali and community service, the Connecticut chapter of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO-CT) made a significant donation of $25,000 to the Children’s Learning Center (CLC) of Fairfield County. This generous contribution was raised by GOPIO-CT members and presented during a Diwali event co-hosted with Hindi USA Stamford.
The Children’s Learning Center, a century-old institution dedicated to early childhood education, plans to utilize the funds to enhance high-quality care and learning opportunities for children from diverse and underserved backgrounds. The donation was formally presented by GOPIO-CT President Mahesh Jhangiani and GOPIO International Chairman Dr. Thomas Abraham to CLC CEO Monica Maccera Filppu.
Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons attended the celebration and issued an official proclamation recognizing Diwali. In her remarks, she highlighted the contributions of the Indian-American community to the city’s cultural and civic life.
The event featured over fifteen group dance performances, showcasing a variety of Indian classical, folk, and contemporary traditions. Students and volunteers from Hindi USA Stamford, along with local cultural organizations, participated in the performances. The evening concluded with a festive dinner that brought together families, community leaders, and supporters.
In addition to the donation to the CLC, GOPIO-CT also extended its support to Future 5, a Stamford nonprofit that mentors high school students from low-income families, as well as the Society for Human and Environment Development (SHED) in India, which provides education and vocational programs in underserved communities.
“Diwali is a time of light and renewal,” said Mahesh Jhangiani. “Through these contributions, we aim to illuminate paths for children here in Connecticut and in India toward a brighter future.”
Dr. Thomas Abraham emphasized GOPIO International’s long-standing commitment to education and empowerment, stating that the diaspora has both the capacity and responsibility to give back. CLC CEO Monica Maccera Filppu expressed her gratitude, noting that the donation would directly benefit programs serving children from diverse backgrounds.
The Diwali celebration also served as a platform for cultural exchange and community bonding, featuring dance performances that ranged from Bharatanatyam and Garba to Bollywood fusion, reflecting the vibrant Indian heritage.
Hindi USA Stamford played a crucial role in organizing the event, providing decorations, programming, and volunteer support. GOPIO-CT’s Diwali giving initiative is part of its broader effort to engage the Indian diaspora in meaningful philanthropy, supporting causes that span education, healthcare, civic engagement, and disaster relief.
The event concluded on a reflective note, emphasizing Diwali not only as a festival of lights but also as a celebration of generosity, community, and cultural unity.
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