About Us
Our Mission: South Asian Philanthropy for the Central Valley.
FISH (Fund by Indian Subcontinent Heritage) is a volunteer-driven movement dedicated to strengthening California’s Central Valley. Founded by Americans of South Asian descent, our fund rallies families, businesses, and community leaders to raise funds and awareness for local social issues with the belief that lasting change begins here at home.
Each year, our board votes on selecting a beneficiary for the funds we raise at our annual FISH Gala, with the recommendation of all of our Board members.
We Give Where We Live
FISH was founded in 2017 by a group of individuals who wanted to make a noticeable difference for the underserved population in California’s Central Valley.
Sujata Gade
Vinod Balasa
Rama Ambati
Chenchula Sudana
Sonia Sethi
Yashu Toprani
Shail Lopez-Ortiz
The Team
Executive Board
Annu Bezwada
President
Shail Lopez-Ortiz
Vice President
Rama Ambati
Chair
Jaisy Uttam
Secretary
Richa Brijesh
Treasurer
Board Members
Anu Kulkarni
Archana Bangalore
Bindya Nagrani
Jyoti Arora
Seema Policepatil
Sheetal Shetty
Sonia Shah
Swati Banerjee
Vikaas Shanker
Yashu Toprani
Advisory Council + Founders
Chenchula Sudana
Sonia Sethi
Vinod Balasa
Sujata Gade
Interested in contributing as a board member or volunteer?
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How FISH Chooses a Beneficiary
Local Needs First
Each year, FISH looks at urgent, local challenges and where philanthropy can move the needle. Our purpose includes raising awareness of pressing needs and donating to local organizations that the community wants to support collectively.
Embracing Diversity
Donations are made to causes extending beyond our South Asian heritage. These efforts build awareness of social issues where we live, embracing connections with people of different backgrounds.
Collaborative Support
Reaching out to local businesses, organizations, and individuals seeking an outlet for philanthropy, we gather the generosity of our communities to bring awareness and support to a cause we all care about.
Stewardship as Inspiration
Our fundraising is set up to inspire and foster the next generation of givers. We welcome them to volunteer with us, embracing our commitment to involve youth in social causes.