Our Board/Staff
Our Board
Pillars in the South Asian Community
Our board routinely give their time and money to organizations fighting to help strengthen the south Asian community here in Chicago. MAFS would be nothing if it were not for their talent, fundraising, goodwill and donations.
Santosh Kumar
Execitive Director
Santosh Kumar serves as Executive Director of Metropolitan Asian Family Services, providing strategic leadership and oversight across programs serving seniors and immigrant communities. With decades of experience in nonprofit leadership and community advocacy, she is deeply committed to expanding access to essential services and strengthening community well-being.
Roshita Pandey
Grants Director II
Roshita Pandey serves as Grants Director II at MAFS, leading grant development and funding strategies that support critical programs across Chicagoland. With extensive experience in nonprofit fundraising and program development, she plays a key role in sustaining and expanding services for seniors and immigrant families.
Dr. Rakesh Asthana
President
Dr. Rakesh Asthana is a retired Captain of Indian Army and a trained veterinarian. After immigrating to the U.S., he built a career as a Cardiovascular Specialist in the pharmaceutical industry. He is deeply committed to nonprofit service and strongly supports MAFS’ work for seniors and immigrant families
Mr. James D'Mello
Vice President
Mr. James D’Mello serves as Secretary of the MAFS Board, supporting governance and organizational accountability. He brings professional leadership experience and is committed to ensuring that MAFS continues to serve diverse communities effectively.
Mr. Sagar Kumar
Treasure
Mr. Sagar Kumar is an Industrial Engineer and MBA graduate with professional experience at Honeywell Aerospace. Since joining the MAFS Board in 2016, he has contributed strategic, data-driven financial oversight and supports the organization’s long-term sustainability.
Ms. Monali Desai
Secretary - General
Ms. Monali Desai is a dedicated Board Member who supports MAFS programs serving seniors and immigrant families across Chicagoland. She contributes to outreach and program development efforts that promote access, dignity, and community well-being.
Anu Saxena
Joint Secretary
Ms. Anu Saxena is a Board Member dedicated to community service and nonprofit engagement. She supports MAFS’ efforts to empower seniors and immigrant families and is committed to advancing meaningful, inclusive programs.
Ms. Vasanti Bhatt
Board Member
Ms. Vasanti Bhatt is a committed community volunteer and Board Member of MAFS. She actively supports the organization’s mission through outreach, fundraising, and advocacy for senior and immigrant services.
Ms. Monali Desai
Board Member
Rakesh is a Chicago-based entrepreneur,
community activist, author, and poet who
exemplifies values-driven leadership. He
is the founder and leader of the Global
Indian Diaspora, a nonprofit organization
dedicated to fostering cross-cultural
connections and promoting international
trade. Through this organization, he
strengthens U.S.-India relations and
advances a more interconnected global
community. Committed to cultural
preservation, Rakesh actively supports
the Hindi Samnvay Samiti, an initiative in
collaboration with the Consulate of India.
He is the author of “The Adventures of
the Tornado Kid: Whirling Back Towards
Timeless Values,” a book that has received
a five-star rating on Amazon and reflects
his extensive research on human behavior.
Rakesh serves on the SEWA International
Chicago Advisory Board and is a member
of the Architecture Review Board for the
Village of Lincolnshire. He is a past President
and current Trustee of FIA Chicago.
Mr. Gaurav Tuteja
Board Member
Mr. Gaurav Tuteja is a Board Member who brings professional experience and a strong commitment to community service. He supports MAFS’ mission by contributing insight and leadership that help strengthen programs for seniors and immigrant families.
Funders & Partners
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.