HICKSVILLE, NY (TIP): In a remarkable display of community spirit and compassion, a highly successful Blood Donation Camp was held today at AsaMai Temple, Hicksville, led by Ms. Navneet Sondhi, Chairperson of the APS Women’s Forum, along with her dedicated team — Ms. Dilsheet Kaur, Shweta Malhotra, Priyanka Khanna, Binny Kaur, and Swati Anand.
The original target for the camp was 25 units of blood, but the response far exceeded expectations — about 50 people successfully donated, more than 10 could not donate due to eligibility criteria, and many who arrived after 4:00 PM had to be turned away.
The event was organized in partnership with AsaMai Temple, New York Cancer and Blood Specialists, New York Blood Center, and AAPI-QLI (American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin – Queens & Long Island), represented by Dr. Devendra Srivastava, Dr. Abhay Malhotra, Dr. Sunil Mehra, and Dr. Prabhu Mehta, along with Dr. Tarun Wasil (NY Cancer & Blood Specialists) and Mr. Gobind Bhateja (AsaMai Temple). Ms. Anju Kakkar of AsaMai Temple graciously oversaw tea, snacks, and lunch arrangements for all present.
The American Punjabi Society extended strong support through Mr. Gary S. Sikka (Founder & Global President), Mr. Mohinder S. Taneja (Senior Vice President), Mr. Varinder S. Sikka (General Secretary), Vice Presidents Mr. Paul Bindra, Mr. Ajai Vir Sondhi, Mr. Rajinder Narang, and Mr. Jaspal S. Arora, Pradeep Tandon (Director, Media & Public Relations), and Mr. Mohinder S. Chandok. Ms. Janessa Sondhi (Director, Youth Engagement) and volunteers Alissa Sondhi, Radhika Sardana, Bhavi Khanna, Mahi Anand, and Ms. Palwinder Bhatti efficiently managed registration and other organizational tasks.
Setting an inspiring example, Gary S. Sikka (Global President, APS) and Ajayvir Sondhi (Vice President, APS) were the first to roll up their sleeves and donate blood.
Navneet Sondhi shared, “It is heartwarming to see our community respond so strongly to a humanitarian cause. Every donor here has made a difference today, and when we work together, we can create real and lasting impact.”
Gary S. Sikka described the camp as “a shining example of how partnerships between community organizations can save lives,” praising Navneet’s “tireless commitment and compassion” as the driving force behind its success.
Gobind Bathija expressed, “Serving the community is at the heart of our temple’s mission, and it was an honor to open our doors for such a noble cause.”
Dr. Tarun Wasil emphasized, “Blood is a precious resource, and today’s efforts will directly help patients in need,” noting the remarkable turnout and collaboration.
The APS Women’s Forum, AsaMai Temple, and their partners remain committed to continuing to organize such initiatives to promote health, compassion, and unity within the community.
For Media Inquiries:
Gary S. Sikka – Global President, APS | info@americanpunjabisociety.com | 917-208-4027
Pradeep Tandon – Director, Media & Public Relations, APS | 718-564-3092
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