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Bighelp for Education Hosts 22nd Annual Event Raises $20K to Support Underprivileged Children in India; Honors Former BFCCPS Educator

Mr.Bernard Benjamin being awarded a plaque in recognition of his excellence by his former student, Sana Shaik- pictured Manju Gone, Hameeda Shaik, Chand Pasha Shaik, Sana Shaik, Bernard Benjamin, Mary Benjamin & Amar Jayam

Bighelp for Education held its 22nd annual event on Sunday, January 19th, 2025, at Marlborough Middle School. Based in Franklin, Massachusetts, the organization was founded in 2002 by Franklin resident Chand Pasha Shaik, who continues to serve as its Global President. This annual event, hosted by the Boston Chapter, celebrates Indian Republic Day and Pongal, the Indian harvest festival, while raising funds to support underprivileged children in India. This year’s event saw an impressive turnout of over 1,000 attendees and raised $20,000.
A significant highlight of the event was the Teacher Felicitation Ceremony, which honored four Massachusetts educators for their exceptional contributions to education. Among the awardees was Mr. Bernard Benjamin, former Fine & Performing Arts Director of the Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School. Fondly known as “Mr. B,” he was recognized for his dedication to fostering student growth, creativity, and resilience through music education.
The event was emceed by Sana Shaik, a Charter School and Franklin High School alumna and former student of Mr. Benjamin’s, alongside current Franklin High School students Shorya Patel, Sahasra Gone, Ajay Gulati, and Arnavi Pitke, who brought enthusiasm and energy to the stage.
During his speech, Chand Pasha Shaik reflected on Bighelp’s journey, sharing how the organization began as a humble effort in 2002 to support 20 children in his hometown and has since expanded to touch the lives of thousands of students across India. Amar Jayam, the Global Vice President and Franklin resident, expressed gratitude to the community and stated that this year’s funds will help educate over 1,200 underprivileged students.
Bighelp has created platforms to uplift children in India and engage the local community here in the United States. The organization provides opportunities for youth to participate in educational contests, take on leadership roles, and rally support for this noble cause.
The day’s festivities began at 10 a.m. with Spelling Bees for grades KG-8, Coloring Contests for Pre-K and KG, and Art Contests for grades KG-8. Attendees also enjoyed over 30 cultural performances celebrating India’s rich heritage and traditions.
Bighelp recognized the contributions of outstanding volunteers and community members with several awards:
• Volunteer of the Year Award: Presented to Franklin residents Manju Gone and Vandana Pitke for their exceptional service.
• United States Presidential Volunteer Service Awards:
– Gold Award: Presented to Hameeda Shaik and Rekha Gundimeda, Franklin residents.
– Silver Award: Presented to Deeksha Pericherla, Franklin High School student.
• Youth Rising Star Award: Honored Sahasra Gone, Franklin High School student, and Adwita Rachoya, BFCCPS student, for their creativity and commitment to raising funds for Bighelp’s initiatives.
The event’s success was driven mainly by the efforts of YouthHelp Coordinator and Franklin resident, Manju Gone, who remarked, “student volunteers from Franklin High School and Franklin Middle Schools played a critical role in organizing and executing the day’s activities.”
This vibrant gathering of over 1,000 people was a testament to the community’s shared passion for education and commitment to uplifting the lives of children in need.
For more information, please visit bighelp.org