LOS ANGELES: "Domestic violence is a horrific issue and the Sheriff's department will work collaboratively with Sahara (South Asian Helpline & Referral Agency) in the critical work it does to address domestic violence in our communities," said Sheriff Lee Baca at the Gala held by Sahara on Thursday, June 12.

After Sahara president Rekha Bajaria's powerful introduction of the work Sahara does, Sheriff Lee Baca, the chief guest for the evening had the audience in complete silence as he spoke about the horror of violence in our communities. He honored Sahara with his strong vote of confidence and support, in its fight against domestic violence.

He also appreciated the South Asian communities in their entrepreneurship and thanked the Goradia’s for their contributions to Sahara. Mike Patel, Reserve LA County Deputy Sheriff, in his opening speech, quoted Mother Teresa "Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough. But God demands it of us, So give your best anyway". These powerful words set the mood of the evening and also described Sahara's spirit.

He lauded Sahara for its tireless efforts in addressing the sensitive issue of domestic violence and for forcing the topic to the forefront of societal conversations. Nirupa Sejpal Parmar, Marketing Director, Sahara board member emphasized the pertinence of domestic violence and the impact it has on all layers of our society.

Nirupa shared that till date Sahara has answered over 4000 domestic violence calls just since January of 2008 and that Sahara has been able to reach out to all these individuals either by providing direct services or by providing the appropriate referrals.

This in itself is an incredible statistic and demonstrates the permeation of domestic violence in our communities. Nirupa in her speech emphasized that Sahara is essentially a support system that helps rebuild confidence in its clients, empowers women and helps survivors of domestic violence become independent and responsible members in US society.

Sahara was founded in 1991 by seven dedicated licensed professionals who felt there was an urgent need for to address the violence in South Asian communities. Sahara was awarded it's non-profit status in 1992. In August 2003, Sahara established Transitional Living Homes in Southern California for South Asian survivors of domestic violence.

Founding board member LCSW Sheela Mehta is still on the Sahara board and continues her dedicated efforts with a focus on client empowerment and mental health. Her presence at the GALA highlighted the vision and commitment of the founders of Sahara.Attendees at the event were given a tour of Sahara's facilities with the Marketing and Administration Office, the Therapy Office, and Sahara's most recent pride, the education center.

The agency opened its Education Center in September, 2007 and currently has 60 students enrolled in their classes. The Event, the first of its kind, was hosted by Sahara to bring prominent members of the law enforcement together with agents of the legal system as well as members of other social organizations.

The event was attended by the following members; Commander Thomas M. Laing- Office of the Sheriff, Capt Christie Guyovich- Lakewood Sheriff, Greg Knapp- Sergeant-Lakewood Station, Fire Chief David Richardson, Nick P- representative from the office of Don Knabe, Md Abu Zafar, the Consul General of Bangladesh, and IGC (Indian Gujarati Charities).

Other guests included lawyers, mental health workers, doctors and other members of the South Asian society that collaborate with Sahara to assist domestic violence clients in their journey towards personal freedom.