New Jersey, Sept. 13, 2025 – Leap to Shine (leaptoshine.org), a Platinum-rated nonprofit recognized by GuideStar, hosted its annual fundraising gala on September 13, raising more than $125,000 to expand digital learning opportunities for underserved children in India.
Leap to Shine directs 95 cents of every dollar raised toward its programs, ensuring maximum impact. Its innovative model provides students with digital tablets preloaded with educational curriculum, eliminating the need for constant internet access. Progress can be tracked via a simple Wi-Fi connection once every two weeks. Over time, the organization has shifted from a classroom-based initiative to a scholarship program, and now to a growing mentorship model that aims to create sustainable educational pathways.
The gala featured the popular dance competition “Dancing for a Cause,” where 13 community leaders paired with choreographers to perform after weeks of rehearsals. The competition was judged by Amit Shah, Bhumit Patel, and Savitha Anand, with performances led by choreographers Krish & Krutika of Unnati Dance Academy, Dr. Devang Modi of Simply Dance, Shivani Badgi of Gurukul, Sangita Das and Chinmay Ashar of Shehnaz Dance Academy, and independent artists Pavitra Jayakanth, Reshika Balayan, and Shweta Karhadkar.
Adding to the evening’s inspiration, Oscar-nominated filmmaker Adam Graves (Anuja) delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the global importance of organizations like Leap to Shine in the fight against child labor and in bridging the educational divide.
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The event’s success was supported by sponsors including HSBC, Parikh Worldwide, Innova Solutions, and Charter Global, along with individual sponsors Shefali & Shah, Natasha & Indranil Bagchi, and Megha Bhouraskar.
“We are deeply grateful for the unwavering support of our donors, volunteers, and partners,” said Keyur Shah, Director at Leap to Shine. “This year, we’re excited to scale our mentorship model and expand our volunteer network to reach even more children in need.”
Leap to Shine continues to work toward its mission of empowering underprivileged students in India through access to digital tools and mentorship, aiming to help them achieve academic success and envision brighter futures.