Stamford, CT – October 2025 – In a festive celebration of Diwali and community service, the Connecticut chapter of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO-CT) donated $25,000 to the Children’s Learning Center (CLC) of Fairfield County. The donation, raised by GOPIO-CT members, was presented during a Diwali event co-hosted with Hindi USA Stamford, held in Stamford, Connecticut.
The Children’s Learning Center, a century-old institution dedicated to early childhood education, will use the contribution to provide high-quality care and learning opportunities for children from diverse and underserved backgrounds. The donation was formally handed over 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, highlighting the contributions of the Indian-American community to the city’s cultural and civic life.
The event featured over fifteen group dance performances, showcasing Indian classical, folk, and contemporary traditions. Students and volunteers from Hindi USA Stamford and local cultural organizations performed, and the evening concluded with a festive dinner bringing together families, community leaders, and supporters.
Beyond the CLC donation, GOPIO-CT also supported Future 5, a Stamford nonprofit mentoring high school students from low-income families, and 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 gratitude, noting that the donation would directly benefit programs serving children from diverse backgrounds.
The Diwali celebration also fostered cultural exchange and community bonding, with dance performances ranging from Bharatanatyam and Garba to Bollywood fusion, reflecting the vibrant Indian heritage.
Hindi USA Stamford played a vital 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 from education and healthcare to civic engagement and disaster relief.
The event concluded on a note of reflection, highlighting Diwali not only as a festival of lights but also as a celebration of generosity, community, and cultural unity.
