WHAT A NIGHT!
We want to share some joyful news to carry into your work week. Last Sunday night’s annual gala was absolutely spectacular!
The joy in the room was palpable. The warmth and generosity of our community shone through in so many ways—in photo album notes to the children, library bookplate messages, and stellar Fund-a-Dream contributions.
Together, we raised nearly $320,000!
We are so grateful to everyone who joined us, donated even if they couldn’t make it, supported us with in-kind gifts, and sponsored our event—sponsors kept rolling in even after the event was sold out!
The steadfast support of each of you helped make our 2026 Rising & Thriving Gala an evening to remember. The love and good wishes shared will be felt halfway around the world in Gurap through the many resources we will now be able to provide our students.
A Celebration of India
Kalpana Reddy—our visionary—our outstanding gala committee leaders, and our team of volunteers outdid themselves in bringing a little bit of India right here to Mill Valley.
Our professional drummers, dancers, mehndi artists, and DJ brought to life a cultural celebration filled with music, dance, color, and joy. And our hard-working Board of Directors and advisors brought their boundless enthusiasm and passion for our students—and helped blow the roof off our humble community center!
And the real showstoppers—the children!
The dynamic and expressive Bharatanatyam dancers, Bollywood dancers, and young drummers brought a piece of Gurap to the evening. For many of us—certainly for me—their presence made the celebration feel especially meaningful.
This uplifting and hopeful evening would not have been possible without YOU, our amazing supporters.
Everyone plays a role in our success. Together, we are creating a small miracle in a small corner of the world—a place that will never be the same because you chose to share your hope, resources, and love.
Your passionate support of the Santal children inspires me every day.
Here’s to love winning. Children rising and thriving. And more and more students benefiting from a St. Xavier’s Gurap education.
With my heartfelt gratitude and deep appreciation,
Aima sarhau,
Annette
As a brief reminder of the impact you have already made, enjoy these unusually green (it’s the rainy season) photos of the Gurap campus where the dining hall is nearly complete and the children always find ways to have fun!
