Our District Grant-funded project "Support for Women and Children" is very much underway with two sessions already completed.  The objective of this project is to bring awareness among the women and young children who are potential targets of abuse and then to empower them. It will consist of lectures, workshops, therapy, and individual discussion sessions.
 
Conceived of and developed by Club Vice-President Dr. Nasrin Khan, the project was written up by past President Dr. Nazrul Islam and the Club Board approved it for presentation to the District Grants Committee for a Grant.  The budget is $4,000.00 to cover the costs of speakers, lecture materials, and technological logistics. The Club is contributing $2,000.00 from its members, with the District approving the matching grant.
 
Following approval by the district and the Rotary Foundation, the first session under the Grant was held on 15 October at the East Meadow Library with Dr. Anca Amighi as the main speaker.  The second session was held on 5 November at the Hicksville Library with Rehab Coach Leyla Messcha as the main speaker.  Both sessions were well attended.  Club President Dr. Maksud Chowdhury opened the sessions while Dr. Nasrin provided the introductions and led the discussions afterward.  Both interactive sessions focused on "Communications Improvements in Asian American Family dynamics"   District AG Bina attended the first session.
 
Abuse and isolation can lead to not only threats to the women's physical safety but also psychological disorders. Similarly, children in immigrant families face different challenges at home and outside which may impact their mental health severely. Members of minority groups are the worst sufferers who cannot seek assistance due to hesitation and lack of finance.  These sessions aim to address these issues and raise awareness
 
At both sessions, President Maksud presented certificates of appreciation to the speakers.  Membership Chair Rahat Hossain handed over gifts to the Speakers.  Light Refreshments were served, and a raffle was held