Press Release – Gift of Life USA Gala 2022
Supporting Disabilities – Differently-Abled Individuals – “Wings without Limbs”
Gift of Life USA, is a 501 (C) (3) non-profit organization, founded by Paresh, Flora and Dr. Harshil Parekh, with the aim to help the specially-abled and nurture acceptance and empathy, bridging the gap across the various communities that form our society. The organization celebrated its Annual Gala this past weekend under the theme “Wings without Limbs” followed by unique message of “Celebrating Life”.
The Gala highlighted the compassionate work of the organization, over the years – advocating, supporting and raising awareness of the exceptional talent and will-power of several distinguished differently-abled individuals with various disorders – Autism, Epilepsy, Cerebral Palsy, Asperger, Visual & Hearing Impaired etc. Their differently-abled abilities have not stopped them achieving the impossible and The Gala serves as a unique platform where sponsors, donors and supporters get the opportunity to meet inspiring Differently-abled Speakers, Entrepreneurs, employers, performers and beneficiaries they will be supporting and see for themselves the beautiful talents these individuals bring to the world.
Emceed by Dr. Harshil Parekh and Heeta Thakkar, the Gala advocated, raised awareness and honored the support of our own Double amputee Suffolk County Police Officer Matias Ferreira and 14 World Records as well as 3 Guinness Books Records Maker Amputee Athlete Amy Palmiero-Winters who are true role models with the message that “Life without Limbs Is Limitless.” Epileptic Kidney Donor Honoree Sheila Carpenter gave a confident message that we all have an extra kidney and should consider donating and saving lives.
Event started with Patriotic National Anthem by FREE Ensemble followed by a Kick-off to “Azadi Ka Amrut Mahotsav “, a tribute to India’s 75 years of Independence by Jagdish Sewhani. Young & energetic Angel’s live dancing, as well as Varsha Joshi and group’s melodious live singing rocked the floor. Directors Shashi Malik, Kamlesh & Mrudula Parekh, Amarish Kachhy, Neela Pandya and blessings from Mrs. Purnima & Tejal Desai, Welcomed and Thanked Several organizational Presidents, Community Leaders, Sponsors, Supporters well-wishers for their continued support year over year. Directors Kalpana Patel & Mayur Dalal shared their remote wishes. Kaul Photography covered great event memories. Our heartfelt Thank you to all our Committee Members, Performers, Donors, Supporters, Volunteers and well-wishers for their continued support our years.
With the mission of accumulating resources in support and benefit of specially-abled individuals, the organization conducts various programs and activities, namely, “Save a Child” Support, “We are Special” Talent & Skill Recognition, “Health & Education,” “Awareness”, “College Scholarships for Differently-Abled” and “Service Dog Support Program”. The organization awards Scholarships to Autistic College going students, promote and showcase talent of the differently abled, help special needs community with health and education needs and much more.
Apart from combatting social stigma by raising awareness about different disorders, the true strength of Gift of Life USA lies in the funding and support it gives to individuals with these various physical and mental disorders. The Indian American community is whole heartedly appealed to embrace and share the organization’s vision of acceptance and compassion of the differently abled.
The organization functions with generous donations from the community and is operated by volunteers. Gift of Life USA appeals donors to come, see, believe and support these true abilities and beyond.
For donations and further information visit our website at www.giftoflifeus.org.