BURLINGTON, MA — The Friends of Indian Senior Citizens Organization (FISCO), a nonprofit agency serving Indian American elders in Massachusetts, will celebrate its 15th anniversary on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Woburn, MA.
The event will mark a decade and a half of tireless volunteer work, cultural programming, and meaningful community-building that now supports over 600 Indian seniors across the region.
Founded in 2010 and incorporated as a nonprofit in 2016, FISCO has grown into a vibrant, community-led organization that combats the social and cultural isolation often faced by immigrant seniors. With the simple promise of a warm, healthy lunch and good company, FISCO has created a powerful model for care that combines physical health, emotional wellbeing, and cultural celebration.
“We began with the goal of giving our seniors a space to connect, to share their immigrant experiences, and to feel seen and supported,” says Ms. Rita Shah, founder and current board member. “Fifteen years later, we’ve grown beyond what we ever imagined.”
FISCO now boasts 560 lifetime members, many of whom participate in its weekly $3 vegetarian lunches, yoga and meditation classes, music and dance performances, and seasonal trips within and outside Massachusetts. These activities take place at three partnering senior centers—Burlington, Westford, and Shrewsbury Councils on Aging—with plans to expand to Newton and Norwood.
“Our lunches are more than just meals,” said Shah. “They’re gatherings where friendships are made, life stories are shared, and seniors learn how to navigate life in the U.S. more confidently.”
This year alone, seniors have enjoyed a whale-watching tour off the coast of Boston, a scenic trip to Pennsylvania, and a large community picnic in North Reading, drawing over 150 attendees. These activities are made possible through partnerships with agencies like Minuteman Senior Services, Agespan, and Elder Services of Worcester, along with generous donations from local individuals and families.
On August 11, 2025, FISCO elected a new Board of Directors, with Ms. Mita Patel stepping in as President for the 2025–2027 term. Founder Rita Shah remains a member of the board, bringing deep institutional knowledge to the new leadership team.
The organization has also announced an active search for a part-time Executive Director, who will work 20 hours per week both in-person and remotely. Additionally, FISCO is forming a new advisory board to focus on fundraising and strategic planning, in light of the community’s rapid growth.
“Our mission now is to expand services to meet the needs of a growing and aging Indian American population,” said Patel. “We’re looking for leaders, volunteers, and donors who can help us grow with heart.”
According to census data, Asian Americans are the fastest-growing racial group in Massachusetts, increasing by 45.2% between 2010 and 2020—nearly double the growth rate of other communities of color. FISCO is one of the few grassroots organizations working to serve this demographic with culturally specific care.
Its close relationships with municipal departments, hospitals, banks, police and fire departments, and healthcare providers have made FISCO a trusted hub for senior support, especially for those with limited English proficiency or family support.
FISCO’s 15th Anniversary Celebration is open to the public, and all are welcome to attend. Details can be found at www.thefisco.org, where you can also find volunteer opportunities, board openings, and the job description for the new Executive Director position.
“Whether you are a caregiver, a community leader, or simply someone who cares about elders living with dignity, we invite you to join us,” said Shah. “Together, we can ensure no senior feels alone.”
