In a generous move, the team decided to allocate 50% of the funds raised to support the initiatives of ‘Friends of Nepal (FoN)’. FoN is a non-profit organization primarily composed of Returned Peace Corps Volunteers (RPCVs) dedicated to ongoing projects in Nepal.
Sujeet Aryal, the President of America Nepal Society (ANS), opened the event with a speech expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support. Daniel Donaghue, the President of FoN, was the chief guest. He shared his experiences as a Peace Corps Volunteer (PCV) and highlighted various FoN-funded projects and their positive impact on the community. Richard Sellers, the 1st Vice President at ANS and Secretary at FoN engaged the audience with his compelling PCV story from Paklihawa, Bhairahawa.
Isha Niroula recognized as the first Nepali American Peace Corps volunteer who served in Kiribati, Oceania, shared her unique PCV journey. Her father, Krishna Niroula, a former 2nd Vice President of the third ANS Executive Committee (1969-1970 term), was also acknowledged. Sirjana Karki, daughter of Tika B Karki who worked at Peace Corps Nepal, shared her connection with the PCV in Nepal.
The event’s atmosphere was further enhanced by the artistic showcase of popular Nepali artist Ashok Bhadel. The audience was treated to captivating Nepali dances by various artists, adding a cultural richness to the occasion.
The ANS team extends its heartfelt appreciation to the generous sponsors, including Galaxy Event Solutions, State Farm Agent Nirmal Atreya, Real Estate Agent Kamal Parakh, Certified Paralegal Sirjana Sharma at Paralegal Services of Tarrant County, TX, and Pen Boutique in Columbia, MD.
The team also extends its gratitude to individuals who contributed to the event’s success, regardless of whether they were able to attend in person. For those interested, stories and photos from the event can be viewed here. Details of individuals who supported the event offline will be provided separately.