Houston Luncheon 2011

Pratham’s plan to fashion the future of India through education received a groundswell of support at its fourth annual holiday luncheon on Friday, December 2 at The Junior League of Houston.

The tireless efforts of Chairs Asha Dhume, Marie Goradia, Rema Dhamodharan and Medha Karve raised over $100,000 for Pratham programs in India. Major attraction of the Pratham’s annual holiday luncheon was the fashion show by Saks Fifth Avenue featuring Christian Dior.

The models dazzled the audience with their colorful and stylish dresses. At the start of the event, Marie Goradia, event co-chair, set the tone of the program titled “Fashioning the Future” with an eloquent speech to a packed audience at Junior League. She explained the aims and objectives of Pratham and described how through its Annual Survey of Education Report, Pratham has become a “powerful force” for education reform in India.

Marie launched a pledge drive to raise funds. Many donors enthusiastically pledged funds in these categories, especially after she announced that Swatantra and Bimla Jain would match dollar for dollar for the first $ 5000 raised. Marie profusely thanked the audience. “ It is because of your generosity that Pratham has achieved so much. Pratham cannot do it alone.” she said.

The keynote speaker was Katherine Center, author of three books and a teacher. She spoke about her books and her life to show how important education has been in her life. Earlier, a silent auction of several items was held to raise donations. Co Chair Asha Dhume, thanked the audience, the co chairs, the sponsors, the host committee, and the volunteers for helping to make this event a great success.