BOSTON— In a historic evening of generosity and purpose, the American India Foundation (AIF) New England Chapter raised over $2 million during its annual Donor Appreciation Gala held earlier this month at the Renaissance Boston Waterfront Hotel in the Seaport District—marking the highest fundraising total in the chapter’s 20-year history.
Held on May 3, 2025, the event drew philanthropic leaders, changemakers, and members of the Indian-American community from across the region. More than just a celebration, the evening served as a powerful reaffirmation of AIF’s mission to disrupt poverty and expand opportunity for India’s most vulnerable populations.
A Community United by Purpose
The event was co-led by Meena and Sundar Subramanyam, Co-Chairs of the AIF New England Advisory Board and longtime champions of the foundation’s work.
“The 2025 AIF New England Donor Appreciation event raised over two million dollars—a testament to the power of collective action and shared purpose,” said Meena Subramanyam. “Together, we are working to disrupt poverty and create lasting opportunity for underserved communities in India.”
Gala Chairs Bring Fresh Energy and Focus on Youth
AIF Event Chair Ramani Varanasi, who co-led the gala alongside Vin Antarkar, described the evening as unforgettable.
“The atmosphere was electric and filled with inspiration, as our community united behind a vital mission,” said Ms. Varanasi. “We’re beyond proud of raising over $2 million—an incredible reflection of the generosity and dedication of everyone involved. Heartfelt thanks to all the donors, sponsors, and supporters who made it possible.”
A New Era for New England Chapter
Raj Sharma, Co-Founder of AIF’s New England Chapter, reflected on the milestone and the chapter’s upward trajectory.
“With this record-breaking total, the New England chapter has entered the big leagues—on par with our counterparts in New York and the Bay Area,” Sharma said. “We are immensely grateful to Meena and Sundar Subramanyam, gala co-chairs Ramani Varanasi and Vin Antarkar, and our dedicated Chapter Manager, Suchitra Krishna.”
Sharma added: “To date, AIF has positively impacted over 19 million lives in India. Our work continues not only through direct programmatic support, but also by shaping the broader philanthropic ecosystem in India—through public advocacy, thought leadership, and the sharing of best practices across NGOs.”
An Evening of Impact and Inspiration
The gala opened with a cocktail reception at 5:00 PM, followed by dinner, heartfelt storytelling, and powerful testimonials from AIF beneficiaries. The evening underscored AIF’s multidimensional approach to poverty alleviation—through education, health, and livelihoods.
Since its founding in 2001, following the Gujarat earthquake—and with the joint leadership of former Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and former U.S. President Bill Clinton—AIF has grown into one of the most impactful development organizations working in India today.
Spotlight on Signature AIF Initiatives
This year’s event highlighted several of AIF’s cornerstone programs:
Digital Equalizer (DE): Empowering over 8 million students with interactive STEM education and training 240,000+ teachers in government schools.
LAMP (Learning and Migration Program): Ensuring consistent education for 1.5 million children of seasonal migrant workers.
MANSI (Maternal and Newborn Survival Initiative): Delivering critical healthcare to over 758,000 women and newborns in remote communities.
Entre-Prerana: Revitalizing the livelihoods of over 800,000 street vendors post-pandemic through financial education and access to credit.
Banyan Impact Fellowship: Connecting U.S. and Indian changemakers for grassroots development and leadership experience.
As AIF continues its 24-year legacy of impact, the New England chapter’s record-breaking gala not only raised funds—it renewed momentum, strengthened community, and deepened the shared commitment to build a more equitable India.
For more information about the American India Foundation and ways to support, visit: www.aif.org
