Recent Events - Annual Fundraiser 2009 (04/11/09)
DIL Houston had an extremely successful fundraiser in April, at which over $200,000 was raised. This is the highest amount that Houston has raised to date and the donations continue to come in. In spite of the dire state of the economy, DIL got enough support from the Houston community to take us well over our fundraising goal for the event. Due to the generosity of our wonderful underwriters, the total expenses for this year's gala were extremely low.
About four hundred and fifty people, including a large number of non-Pakistanis, came to support DIL's cause and enjoy the much-anticipated annual gala held at Houston's prestigious Omni Hotel. The program included a silent and live auction, delicious food and superb entertainment.
A slideshow on DIL's achievements as well as a video by Nicholas Kristof (about the state of education in Pakistan) were presented and very well received.
Keynote speaker, Dr Adil Najam, Professor of Global Public Policy at Boston University, mesmerized everyone with his stellar presentation. He made the most compelling argument (with slides - pictures and statistics) in favor of education for the Pakistani woman. Dr Najam stated that Pakistanis should not underestimate their capacity to give and should feel proud that Pakistani expatriates donate more to charity than the average American, as statistical data has shown. He also told the audience that over one billion dollars are sent by expatriots in the US to sustain development and the livelihood of many in Pakistan.
Dr. Najam's presentation was followed by an emotional plea by special guest, Brother Robert Muhammad, host of Connect the Dots talk show on Pacifica's KPFT 90.1 FM. When Br. Muhammad solicited donations on DIL's behalf, in his most persuasive and engaging style, the outpouring of generosity was beyond belief.... and led to the ultimate success of the fundraiser.
The entertainment included classical dancing and a sitar and tabla performance by renowned sitar player Ustad Farid Nizami and Pandit Shantilal Shah. Local karaoke singer, Tariq Khan ended the evening's program with a medley of nostalgic Pakistani songs.
We are hopeful that in these hard times those who are convinced that education is vital to resolving the problems of this world will rise to the challenge and contribute generously to DIL. This is the time for sacrifice and action. We owe the less fortunate children of Pakistan our support now more than ever before.
|
