Enormous community support given to HDF for a noble cause

Chicago IL: Chicago community came in large numbers to support a very worthy cause of humanitarian work in Pakistan. The Human Development Foundation (HDF) held its 16th Annual Community Awareness & Fundraising Dinner on Saturday, April 13th 2013 at Rosemont Convention Center, 9301 Bryn Mawr Avenue, Rosemont, IL. This successful event was sold out, with over 400 attendees joining to support HDF’s mission in fighting poverty through its Holistic Model of Development in the program region of Rahim Yar Khan.

During social hour, attendees mingled, enjoyed hors d’oeuvres, and browsed through a selection of unique vendors. There was a book signing by Rashid Osmani, debut author of “Word Posse.” A full silent auction table boasted a customized private chef dinner; gift certificates; exquisite jewelry; and designer outfits.

Master of Ceremonies was conducted by Ash-har Quraishi, Emmy Award-winning television journalist, writer, photographer, and film maker.

The Chicago community was welcomed by Humaira Abbasi, HDF’s Chicago Chapter Chair. She thanked all the volunteers, supporters, and event host committee members who made the event a grand success. HDF’s Executive Director, Fakhia Rashid highlighted HDF’s incredible milestones and achievements. She also gave updates on 2 projects funded by the generous Chicago Community last year. The projects include HDF Enoo Bhatti School in Lahore and a Community Health Center in Zhob which serves more than 14,000 people.

A powerful keynote address was delivered by M. Salahuddin Khan, author of critically acclaimed novel, “Sikander,” now being turned into a screenplay. The keynote shared HDF’s Success Stories, in where guests could directly experience the impact of HDF’s humanitarian at work with beneficiaries.

They learned firsthand in how impactful their support and donations truly affect the lives of beneficiaries, and how HDF has truly been addressing the poverty complex with the “Power of 5.”

Fundraising was led by Mujahid Ghazi from Urdu Talk. Proceeds from this fundraising gala positively impacted the lives of over 48,000 beneficiaries in the Rahim Yar Khan program region who receive services from HDF’s Holistic Model of Development. Live auction concluded this segment of the program.

Dinner was be catered by Usmania Fine Dining, a renowned Chicago-land favorite for Indian and Pakistani cuisine.

This event concluded with a live performance by renowned group, Funkadesi, which was named “Best International/ World Music Band 2012.” Guests ended the evening on an upbeat note with an eclectic mix of South Asian and Caribbean for an enthralling live performance. Chicago’s most diverse world music band wows crowd at Human Development Foundation Fundraiser. Funkadesi, Chicago’s 6-time award-winning intercultural band highlighted their dynamic blend of Indo-Afro-Caribbean music. Funkadesi fluidly combines East Indian music with reggae, funk, and a variety of Afro-Caribbean music, creating what the band has dubbed the “Indo-Afro-Caribbean connection.” This connection seems to appeal to a broad cross-section of fans both within and beyond the South Asian diaspora. Toronto Star’s Geoff Chapman says “This ideal band . . . also bears messages of togetherness.” Tracks from their latest CD, Yo Baba, has been featured on XM Radio and has received critical acclaim across the country. The band has also been featured on London’s BBC radio and mentioned Time Magazine, and most recently on Sony Television worldwide on a recent episode of Andaaz. Founder and bassist/sitarist Rahul Sharma reflects on the choice of Funkadesi for the HDF event:

“It’s a privilege to be a part of an ensemble that can be on a primarily African-American college campus one day, and be in front of a large Pakistani/Indian gala event crowd the next. Quite simply, we love to play music, we love to be together in front of appreciative fans, and we continue to feed off each other’s energy. But beyond that, we love that different crowds can feel like they can relate to our music and message of unity.” The band surprised the crowd with an electrifying procession of multicultural drumming featuring dhol with African, Caribbean, and Brazilian drums marching through the crowd. Their high-energy blend of Bollywood, bhangra, reggae, and funk music continued, and they ended as they started, leading the crowd around the venue, all dancing a conga line.

About HDF: HDF has been fighting extreme poverty through a unique holistic model of development focused on lasting change. The HDF Holistic Model includes programs in 5 key areas: Social Mobilization, Education; Healthcare; Economic Development; and Sustainable Environment. HDF’s mission is to empower communities and individuals with the tools and resources needed to achieve and sustain a better way of life. HDF is registered under section 501(c)(3) with Tax ID: 36-4184940. HDF prides itself in its holistic and transparent approach. As a prestigious organization with a 4 star rating on Charity Navigator; recognized as a preferred-choice charity by Better Business Bureau; and Valued Guide Star Partner, we invite you to learn more about us at www.HDF.com Your donations are tax deductible.