Ritu Maheshwari
India Post News Service
SANTA CLARA, CA: More than 500 community members and supporters gathered at the Santa Clara Marriott on September 20 for the Home of Hope 2026 Gala, celebrating 27 years of service and the organization’s impact on more than 350,000 children.
A major highlight of the evening was the presence of Bollywood actor, entrepreneur and climate advocate Bhumi Pednekar, who attended as the Guest of Honor. Pednekar, who also serves as a UNDP National Advocate, spoke about her association with Home of Hope and her experiences with communities supported by the organization. She emphasized the importance of compassion, social responsibility and giving back to society.
Founded by Dr. Nilima Sabharwal, Home of Hope has grown from a grassroots initiative into a volunteer driven organization supporting children and communities through education, mentoring, nutrition, youth leadership and community development programs.
Dr. Sabharwal welcomed guests at the gala, continuing a tradition dating back to the organization’s first gathering. She was joined by her 11 year old granddaughter, Kaeya Parikh, and other young HOH volunteers.
HOH President Neeti Sandhu highlighted the organization’s expanding local outreach, including a Math Excellence Program conducted by Suman Tiwari, founder of My Learning Genie, with support from HOH Youth Chapter volunteers.
Longtime supporter JP Sethi received the Legacy Impact Award for his decades of support and philanthropy.
The evening featured music, youth presentations and community stories. Home of Hope is now working toward a $1 million fundraising goal to expand its programs and reach more children.
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