VRA Award Letter: 2012 Organization of The Year
VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION AWARD
(Copyright Florida Today.)
Doctors are healers by nature, so it is no wonder that BIMDA, the Brevard Indo-American Medical and Dental Association, focuses on compassionate healing on multiple levels.
The all-volunteer organization of 180 physicians and dentists was founded by Dr. Mahesh Soni and its current honorary executive director is Glad Kurian, a senior investment management consultant for Morgan Stanley in Suntree.
“BIMDA has earned a reputation as Partners in Philanthropy,” said Dr. Stephanie Haridopolos, who nominated BIMDA for 2012’s Organization of the Year honors. “They have given back so much to the community with their multiple philanthropic endeavors.”
BIMDA’s heart is large and generous as it channels a considerable force for good to organizations here and abroad.
“Brevard is a much better place to live, work and raise our families because BIMDA is a part of this community,” said Brevard Sheriff Jack Parker.
Every year, the group significantly supports a diverse group of nonprofit organizations that include the Brevard Symphony Orchestra, Jess Parrish Medical Foundation, the Women’s Center, Health First Foundation, United Way of Brevard, FLORIDA TODAY’s Reaching Out Holiday Fund, Cancer Care Centers Foundation, the Scott Center for Autism Treatment, the Merritt Island Rotary Club Foundation, Brevard Sheriff’s Office’s Camp Chance, Ma Krupa Charitable Foundation and the Wuesthoff Health System Auxiliary.
In 2005, BIMDA was instrumental in organizing fundraisers that collected $200,000 to help victims of Hurricane Katrina. The organization also raised $40,000 for Haitian earthquake victims and $150,000 for the tsunami victims of Asia. BIMDA physicians have organized medical missions to India and Central America and donated thousands of hours of medical care.
“BIMDA has brought a great level of cohesiveness to Brevard’s healthcare,” Dr. Mukesh Aggarwal said.
“Since its first Medical Expo in 2002, we have brought together all hospitals, physician groups, medical providers and allied health professionals to raise funds for deserving charities, while also enhancing continuing medical education and understanding between all professionals.”
This nonprofit, physician-driven association has served as a model for similar groups throughout Florida.
“They are a world-class organization,” Haridopolos said.
