From the eyes of a young volunteer: Journey of Hope Gala 2018

Written by Surtaz Khan

Spreeha held its annual Journey of Hope Gala 2018 event at the Lynnwood Convention Center on

September 22nd. From my perspective as a volunteer, I was amazed to be a part of the natural unity of the event. I found that all the attendees, from the small children to returning elders, greeted each other with a smile on their face. Everyone was incredibly social and unified, and the sense of familiarity, friendship, and compassion truly emerged as the event progressed.

I was most captivated by the display table featuring the items available for the silent auction. Although several were from our generous donors and supporters here in Washington, I was amazed to see the authentic Bangladeshi roots present in the many artwork, artifacts, and clothing on display. Even now, I distinctly remember the soft, yet deliberate brushstrokes of an aspiring student painter from Bangladesh whose scenic depictions of rivers, villages, and streets practically transported anyone viewing the painting into the culture of Bangladesh.

During the fundraising portion of the night, one of our inspiring speakers representing Spreeha shared her experience walking through a redwood forest. She recounted how her tour guide had told her how redwood trees spread their roods horizontally instead of vertically deeper into the ground. By building and growing laterally, they intertwine with each other and form a stronger network of roots as a unit. Although they fall as one, they are immovable and invincible as a whole. Slowly, we internalized her message; each and every one of us stood from our tables and looked around at each other, aware and appreciated of having so many friends, family, and acquaintances that had one unified goal in mind. We extended our arms and held each other’s hands, strong redwood trees becoming even stronger as we connected and left an impression on those around us.

Perhaps the most memorable and powerful portion of the night was our actual fundraiser. Following an informative presentation on how our efforts have enabled Spreeha to graduate its first student from university, or provide entire classrooms of underprivileged students access to books, supplies, and the internet, we gradually transitioned into funding for our future programs and directives. We had a goal of raising $150,000 that we were committed to achieving before the night was done.

The Redwood forest experience united us. The immense sense of unity that had bound us together for the entire night took hold. People in attendance refused to remain silent just watching and observing. Rather, they realized the value of giving; they understood the power that they had to break the cycle of poverty through any size of donation, big or small. We all realized our place in a family of like-minded workers for social good. As we smiled, laughed, and donated, our entire experience over the past hours culminated to a fulfilling climax as we magnificently displayed our promise to helping those who deserve a better life. And before we knew it, our funding thermometer had broken through its ceiling and peaked at over $185,000 – the result of our collective, empathetic, and powerful efforts.

[October 21, 2018]