The Association of South Asian Professionals of British Columbia (ASAP),
working with Vancity, will be conducting a Samosa Day for the Homeless on
Saturday, March 25, 2017 starting at 11:30 am at Oppenheimer Park in East
Vancouver. ASAP and Vancity will be serving up hundreds of samosas along
with refreshments to those in need. The group of South Asian professionals
will also distribute gently used clothing to the less fortunate members of
society. By raising awareness, ASAP hopes others will join in to make a
meaningful difference in the lives of the approximately 2,300 homeless
people in Vancouver.
“We have been conducting our Hotdogs for the Homeless events several times
a year for over eight years now and unfortunately the problem of
homelessness appears to be getting worse not better. Mental illness is a
major factor in this problem. The treatment of those with mental illness
reflects poorly on our society. While we are honoured to give back to the
community in this manner, the issues of homelessness and the manner in
which those with mental illness are dealt with needs to be addressed now by
everyone. Together we can make a difference. ASAP and its members are
doing their part by getting involved with our many events like this and
giving back to the community. We encourage and challenge others to join us
to help resolve the plight of the homeless,” states Mr. Jindy Bhalla,
President of ASAP.
ASAP strives to recruit individuals who are looking to make a
difference. For those who join the team of professionals in
volunteering; here are a few waysASAP makes a difference:
*School Mentorship Program*
Started January 2010, ASAP members speak to elementary and high school
aged children regularly at various schools through-out the lower
mainland. ASAP role models discuss their career path and help
children learn about options for their future.
Four the last 4 years ASAP has helped organize student leadership events in
Surrey for over 4000 students.
*Hot Dogs for the Homeless Campaigns*
Since 2008, ASAP has been handing out thousands of free hot dogs, other
food and clothing to the underprivileged in the downtown eastside and
Surrey. Each time we do this event, there is a sense of fulfillment
when you see
how grateful others are for our
help. Volunteering at this event brings perspective to your life.
*Awareness Campaigns*
Promote Stem Cell registry sign up by South Asians. Spend a day
building homes with Habitat for Humanity. Join the ASAP team for the
World Partnership Walk, Surrey Christmas Bureau Toy Drive, The Victor
Ghirra Toy Drive and many other campaigns upcoming.
*ASAP Networking Nights*
Since 2008, ASAP has had a full house at each of its quarterly
networking nights. This is a great way to get to know other
professionals in the Lower Mainland area and help ASAP raise
awareness.
The Association of South Asian Professionals of British Columbia is a
group consisting of South Asian Professionals from various disciplines
including lawyers, engineers, brokers, financiers, doctors, notaries, media
and local business people. The vision of the Association is to exhibit
social responsibility through positive action in the general community,
foster leadership by acting as role models and mentors, and advocate for
social issues in British Columbia, all in a professional manner focusing
solely on need.
What: Event photo opportunityWhen: Saturday, March 25th,
2017 – 12noon
Where: Oppenheimer Park in East Vancouver
Who: The Association of South Asian Professionals of British
Columbia & Vancity
For more information contact:
Jindy Bhalla, [email protected]
President, The Association of South Asian Professionals of British Columbia
