Backpacks of Hope: Shaping Brighter Futures through Bollywood Meets Borscht Belt
April 21st, Austin, Tx ~ (By, HC4A volunteers) Highlighting the power of community generosity, BMBB 2024 showcased inspiring stories of resilience and the profound impact of supporting educational needs in the Austin area.
Since its first showcase in 2013, the Bollywood Meets Borscht Belt (BMBB) event has stood as a testament to the incredible and enduring impact of the unique partnership between the Jewish and Hindu communities in Austin. This family-friendly, cultural extravaganza organized by event partners Shalom Austin and HC4A, has successfully united communities through a shared goal of making a significant difference.
On April 21, 2021, this event was made extra special as they were joined by the African American Youth Harvest Foundation to make it a truly multicultural celebration, reflecting the diverse fabric of Austin itself. Together, they aimed to further bridge community gaps and amplify their collective impact on social causes, particularly in education.
This year’s initiative focused on supporting over 1,600 children to provide essential school supplies, demonstrating the power of unity and generosity across different cultures and communities.
Seeing Jewish, Hindu, and African American communities share the stage at the Bollywood Meets Borscht Belt event was a rare and inspiring moment of unity, showcasing how diverse cultures can come together for a common purpose. This collaboration highlights the importance of inclusivity and mutual support, demonstrating that regardless of our backgrounds, we all have a role to play in supporting education for low-income children. It's a powerful reminder that when we unite for the greater good, we can break down barriers and create lasting positive impacts in our communities.
The fundraising segment of the recent event was a heartwarming testament to the power of community and the incredible difference collective action can make in the lives of many. Kicking off this segment were powerful stories from individuals whose lives have been dramatically changed through acts of generosity and service.
Will Williams, Founder of ShareTheWill Foundation for veterans and their families, is a name now synonymous with selflessness and dedication. He shared his life story, once marred by the challenges of a foster system but beautifully transformed by the love and support of his adoptive family and later, his 26 years of active service in the U.S. Army. His narrative wasn't just a tale of overcoming adversity; it was a call to action, urging others to extend a hand in support of those in need, echoing the ethos of ShareTheWill's mission. He was joined by another hero and Korea war veteran, and the attendees were moved by their support to the cause.
Following this powerful start, a local family, beneficiaries of the school supplies drive coordinated by Hindu Charities for America (HC4A), took the stage. Their testimony shed light on the practical impact of the donations, highlighting Manor ISD's receipt of these essential supplies. Their gratitude was palpable, and their message clear: every contribution helps ease the educational journey of a child, affirming the worth and potential of each student. This segment beautifully illustrated the direct impact of giving, making it a poignant reminder of the significant role community support plays in shaping brighter futures.
The event also featured performances that stirred the soul and captivated the audience, from African American Youth Harvest Foundation’s soulful songs and R&B tunes to Monsoon Dance's enchanting Bollywood numbers, and David from Shalom Austin's contemporary Jewish music.
Guest speakers lent their voices to the cause, including Council Member Alison Alter, Rabbi Daniel A. Septimus, and Manor ISD Superintendent, Dr. Robert Sormani, each sharing insights from their vast experiences and echoing the evening's theme of community service and education support. Their talks highlighted their commitment to enhancing the community's welfare, from advocating for child care and school funding to leading with a vision of holistic learning and educational excellence.
Anita Singh and Nupur Sharma took the helm as emcees at the event, bringing a dynamic blend of style, humor, and empowerment to the stage. Their engaging presence and insightful storytelling enriched the experience, making it a fun and memorable occasion for all in attendance. This event not only celebrated the generous spirit of the Austin community but also reinforced the importance of continued support for school districts like Austin, Manor, Bastrop, Del Valle, and Houston. Through collaborations with organizations like HC4A, Shalom Austin, AAYHF, area ISDs, and ShareTheWill Foundation, it's clear that together, we can equip the next generation with the tools they need for success, fostering a cycle of giving and gratitude that enriches us all.
