BLOGS – MAFS News & Community Stories
Celebrating Culture, Community, and Compassion Across Chicagoland
Welcome to the MAFS Blog!
Here, we share inspiring stories, event highlights, cultural celebrations, and updates about our programs serving seniors and immigrant families.
Our goal is to keep our community informed, connected, and uplifted.
Whether you’re looking for recaps of our annual fundraisers, heartfelt stories from community events, or insights into the services we provide, this page brings all MAFS moments together in one meaningful place.
Featured Stories
MAFS Annual Fundraiser 2025: A Night of Tribute, Culture & Community
A heartfelt recap of our unforgettable evening at The Matrix Club, featuring a musical tribute to Raj Kapoor, dazzling performances, and community unity.
Why We Share These Stories
At Metropolitan Asian Family Services, every event, fundraiser, and program reflects our mission.
Empower seniors
Support immigrant families
Bring communities together
Preserve cultural heritage
Expand access to essential services
Our blog serves as a place to honor the people we serve, celebrate our community partners, and share the meaningful moments that define our work.
Stay Connected
Want updates on upcoming events, new programs, or volunteer opportunities?
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2025 Annual Gala
A grand musical tribute to legendary actor Raj Kapoor, featuring live performances, a special dance by Madhura Sane, and an unforgettable night of celebration, culture, and community impact.
2025 Mini Fundraiser
An inspiring afternoon of poetry and music featuring renowned poet Avinash Srivastava and celebrated host Rachana Srivastava. A community-centered cultural gathering supporting MAFS’ mission.
2024 MAFS Annual Gala
– Live Concert Experience
An electrifying live concert featuring Indian playback singers and composers Bhuvana Ananth & Barani Kannan, with special emcee Madhura Sane. A vibrant night of music, culture, and community in support of MAFS’ mission.
2024 MAFS Mini Fundraiser
Held on May 3, 2024, in Streamwood, IL, this event brought the community together for music, performances, and meaningful connections in support of MAFS’ mission.
2021 Annual Fundraiser
– Return to In-Person Celebration
After a year of virtual events, MAFS returned with a powerful in-person gala officially proclaimed as “MAFS Day” by the State of Illinois. The night celebrated recovery, leadership, and a renewed commitment to community unity.
2021 Mini Fundraiser – Virtual Gala
This globally livestreamed virtual gala celebrated Asian heritage and frontline workers during the pandemic. The event brought international audiences together to honor resilience, health, and community service.
2020 Annual Fundraiser – Virtual Gala
MAFS celebrated 28 years of service with a virtual gala featuring statewide recognition and special tributes. Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker headlined the event, honoring MAFS’ leadership and unwavering mission during the pandemic.
2020 Mini Fundraiser – Virtual Summit
During the height of COVID-19, MAFS successfully transitioned to a fully virtual summit focused on senior care during the pandemic. This historic digital event ensured continued community connection and support despite global challenges.
2019 Annual Fundraiser
This global-themed gala celebrated the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi while spotlighting international leaders, entrepreneurs, and elected officials. The night emphasized unity, innovation, and the future of senior services.
2018 Annual Fundraiser
The 26th Annual Fundraiser showcased a vibrant fusion of multicultural traditions while honoring community leaders and supporters. This milestone event reflected MAFS’ expanding impact and continued commitment to social services.
2018 Mini Fundraiser
Over 300 seniors and community leaders gathered for an elegant mini fundraiser celebrating culture, leadership, and service. The night featured ceremonial traditions, live recognition, and heartfelt community engagement in support of senior services.
2017 Annual Fundraiser – 25th Anniversary Celebration
MAFS marked its 25th anniversary with a powerful cultural production, Kal Bhi, Aaj Bhi, transforming the banquet hall into a full theater experience. The evening celebrated the organization’s legacy, growth, and impact through artistic storytelling and community pride.
2017 Mini Fundraiser
A Schaumburg-based community fundraiser that brought together families, seniors, and supporters for a culturally rich evening focused on local impact and continued service.
2016 Annual Fundraiser
A powerful tribute gala held in memory of Pramod Kumar, honoring his legacy while raising vital funds to sustain senior and community services. The night blended remembrance, culture, and unity.
2016 Mini Fundraiser
A heartfelt community celebration featuring cultural ceremonies and participation from local civic leaders, reinforcing the importance of supporting immigrant and senior services at the neighborhood level.
2015 Annual Fundraiser
One of the largest galas in MAFS history, welcoming over 1,000 attendees for an unforgettable night of cultural performances, celebration, and fundraising for senior services and community programs.
2015 Mini Fundraiser
A warm and personal community dinner in Naperville that welcomed over 300 seniors and supporters. The evening emphasized connection, cultural pride, and the importance of community-driven support.
2014 Annual Fundraiser
An elegant awards night filled with traditional performances, honored guests, and inspiring speeches. This annual gala celebrated excellence, leadership, and the continued growth of MAFS across Illinois.
2014 Mini Frundraiser
This intimate cultural gathering focused on unity and appreciation, blending performances with recognition of community members who helped strengthen MAFS’ mission during Asian Heritage Month.
2013 Annual Fundraiser
A vibrant cultural evening featuring fashion, dance, and live entertainment, celebrating 21 years of service to the community. This fundraiser highlighted artistic expression while supporting critical programs for immigrant families.
2012 Annual Fundraiser
This marked one of MAFS’ earliest large-scale annual fundraising celebrations, bringing together community leaders, performers, and supporters for an elegant evening of dining, culture, and unity. The event set the foundation for what would become a long-standing fundraising tradition.
Frecuent Questions (FAQs)
What is MAFS and who do you serve?
MAFS (Metropolitan Asian Family Services) provides culturally responsive programs that support seniors, immigrants, and underserved communities across Chicagoland, with a focus on health, education, and community well-being.
What types of programs does MAFS offer?
MAFS offers health education, nutrition support, public benefits assistance, adult literacy and ESL programs, mental health awareness initiatives, and community advocacy programs.
Do I need to be Asian to receive MAFS services?
No. While MAFS was founded to serve Asian communities, our programs are open to individuals of all backgrounds. We welcome anyone who may benefit from our services.
Are MAFS programs free?
Many MAFS programs are free or low-cost thanks to grants, donations, and community partnerships. Program availability may vary by location and funding source.
What languages does MAFS support?
MAFS provides multilingual support to ensure access for diverse communities. Services and materials may be available in languages such as English, Hindi, Urdu, Gujarati, Bengali, Punjabi, Spanish, and others depending on the program.
Where is MAFS located?
MAFS serves communities across Chicagoland, with programs offered in locations including Chicago, Niles, Schaumburg, Naperville, Carol Stream, and surrounding areas.
How can I get involved with MAFS?
Community members can support MAFS by volunteering, attending events, advocating for community needs, or donating to support our programs.
Feel free to contact us or stop by in person to meet with a member of our staff for face-to-face solutions.
Contact Us
Email: [email protected]
Mon – Fri 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
847-306-7606
7541 N Western Avenue, Chicago IL 60645
Newsletter
To provide comprehensive & integrated Social Services to the Immigrant population of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, the Middle East & European countries. These services include but are not limited to educate, counsel, assist & empower individuals & families to become productive members in their new home.