The Association of Indians in America – NJ Chapter, hosts fundraising event

August 14, 2023

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Uma Swaminathan, vice president of the Association of Indians in America-National, addressing the attendees at uly 23, 2023, fundraising event in New Jersey. PHOTO: Pradip Shah courtesy AIA

The Association of Indians in America, AIA-New Jersey chapter, hosted a fundraising event, July 23, 2023, at Akbar Restaurant in Edison New Jersey.

The organization, which was founded in 1967 at Princeton New Jersey to meet the “hopes and aspirations of those immigrants who are united by their common bond of “Indian Heritage, American commitment,” a press release from AIA-NJ said.

Uma Swaminathan, vice president of AIA-National, center, with Susan Dyckman of Women Aware, left, and Ellen Schwartz Director Family Justice Center, at July 23, 2023, fundraising event in NJ. PHOTO:Pradip Shah courtesy AIA

One of the objectives is supporting causes that uplift the community, including the uplifting and empowerment of women who may be survivors/victims of domestic violence and abuse. AIA raised funds for two organizations at the July 23 event:

Manavi, meaning “primal woman” in Sanskrit, is an organization at the forefront of championing the rights and well-being of South Asian women in the United States. With a commitment to ending violence and exploitation, Manavi provides a range of comprehensive services, including counseling, legal assistance, emergency shelter, and transitional support.

Women Aware, is another nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals impacted by domestic violence in Middlesex County, New Jersey. By offering a safe haven and essential services, Women Aware helps survivors rebuild their lives, providing shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, and educational programs.

The Vice President of National AIA Uma Swaminathan welcomed attendees, and drew attention to the importance of awareness and providing help to affected women and children. She told Desi Talk the event raised about $2,000 for each of the organizations, Manavi, and Women Aware.