CHICAGO: Human Development Foundation (HDF) Chicago Chapter hosted its 17 Annual Fundraising Dinner on Saturday, April 26 at Double Tree Hilton in Oakbrook, a south side Chicago suburb. This sold out event with over 400 attendees coming to support HDF’s mission in fighting poverty through its Holistic Model of Development in Pakistan, proved to be a great success. HDF is presently providing vital services to over 800,000 beneficiaries.
During Social Hour, attendees mingled and browsed through a selection of unique vendors. A full silent auction table exhibited customized and unique gift certificates, exquisite jewelry and designer outfits.
The program commenced with Quranic recitation by Azhar Ghumra. The Chicago community was welcomed by Humaira Abbasi, HDF’s Chicago Chapter Chair and Dr Sajjad Asghar, HDF, Board Member. The Chief Guest was Pakistan CG Faisal Niaz Tirmizi who was accompanied by his wife Mrs Haniya Tirmizi. Among distinguished dignitaries were Dr Zeenat Anwar, Member of the HDF Board of Trustees from Michigan; Dr Atiya Khan, Chair Person of the Board, HDF-USA; and Dr Tariq Khan, HDF Board of Directors from Maryland.
Dr Sajjad Asghar highlighted HDF’s incredible milestones and achievements and provided updates on projects that were funded by the Chicago Community in 2013. With the support of Chicago Community, HDF is providing vital services to over 48,000 people in Rahim Yar Khan including education, health and economic development programs.
Other sponsored HDF projects include HDF-Sonia Shah Memorial School in Charsada, Enoo Bhatti School in Lahore, water hand pumps sponsored by Amera Rehman, Shuay Ummeed vocational and technical training project, Rahim Yar Girls School among many other projects.
Master of Ceremonies was Ash-har Quraishi, Emmy Award-winning television journalist. The keynote address was given by Dr Tariq Banuri, Professor at University of Utah, who in his thought provoking speech touched upon human rights and poverty eradication in context of Pakistan. A brief overview of HDF’s work was provided by Qasim Riaz, HDF Chicago Chapter member, and Zainab Khan, HDF-Development Manager. Fakhia Rashid was given an Appreciation Award for her commendable service to HDF by Dr Atiya Khan, Chairperson of the Board-HDF-USA.
The event concluded with a live performance by renowned group, “Zaman Zaki Taji Qawwal.” The beautiful Sufi music captivated and mesmerized the audience.
HDF Holistic Model includes programs in 5 key areas: social mobilization, education and literacy, primary healthcare, economic development, and sustainable environment.
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