NEW YORK CITY(TIP): The Eye Foundation of America (www.eyefoundationofamerica.org) held a fundraiser, May 23 in Downtown here. Around a hundred well wishers and patrons of the Foundation gathered to support the Foundation which aims at “preventing the avoidable blindness”.

Ashok Raju and Leela Raju spoke about the Foundation’s work in the last three decades and expressed their gratitude to the patrons of the Foundation who have been regularly funding the various projects of the Foundation.

The Madullas, Srinu and Tulsi who are regular donors received special recognition, as did the Maddalis, the Panchals, and the Modaks for their generous pledges.

A highlight of the event was an announcement by Ms Neeta Bhasin, CEO of ASB Media and Chair of Diwali at Times Square that the Eye Foundation of America will be a partner in Diwali celebrations in October 2018.

Prasanna and his ensemble which included his singer wife Shalini cast a spell with their soulful music and won the admiration and appreciation of the gathering.

The fundraiser netted $350,000.

The Foundation has planned a fundraising event in NJ on Sept 22 at Royal Albert Palace.

The Foundation is also considering a tour with Prasanna in Chicago and San Francisco, and maybe at some  other locations also, given the fact that the gathering felt hugely entertained by his ensemble.

Dr. VK Raju, founder of the Eye Foundation of America chose no to speak on the occasion. His wife and he kept themselves busy looking after the guests.

The organizers thanked Prasanna and his ensemble, Joe’s Pub, the Master of Ceremonies Kulraaj Bhushan Anand, Gloria and the Society and Diplomatic Review, and Prof. Indrajit Saluja and The Indian Panorama for their support.