Bangladeshi American Foundation of Albany (BAFA) is a Bangladeshi community organization in Albany, New York. It was founded in 2015 as a membership-based nonprofit organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Individuals from the Bangladeshi community can join the Bangladeshi American Foundation of Albany for an annual membership fee of $20, while families are charged $30. The organization has an executive committee and an elected Board of Trustees. Picnics, cultural events, raffle draws, and Bangla New Year are some of the events organized by BAFA. The organization pledged to uphold the ideals of democracy, pluralism, secularism, and equality in its operations. In essence, it envisioned the organization as a community-driven entity, governed by and serving the community, where the people would hold the ultimate power.
Motto:
“Building a Stronger Community Starts From The Root”
Mission
The primary objective of BAFA is to promote Bangladeshi culture in Albany by establishing a conducive environment for the proper upbringing of children, encouraging philanthropy, and upholding democratic and pluralistic values within the society.
Objectives
To help Bangladeshis in Albany, the Foundation has adopted the following objectives:
- to promote Bangladeshi culture among Bangladeshi second-generation living in Albany.
- to create an environment appropriate for the proper upbringing of Bangladeshi kids.
- to build a strong bond among community members, particularly among the new generation of Bangladeshis.
- to organize social, cultural, and religious events.
- to do social work, such as helping the sick, helping with weddings, doctor appointments, and funeral arrangements.
- to perform as an information-sharing platform for all Bangladeshi in Albany.
- to promote democratic and pluralistic values in Bangladeshi society.
Albany Bangla School (Albany Pathshala)
Albany Bangla School was established to provide an environment where Bangladeshi American children in Albany can immerse themselves in the Bangla language and culture through engaging educational and enjoyable activities. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including language classes, songs, music, and artistic pursuits. Furthermore, the school strives to cultivate philanthropic values and promote democratic and pluralistic principles within the community.
Membership
Membership dues of $20 for individuals and $30 for families residing in the same household are due every other year. Members can purchase discounted event tickets, participate in voting, and compete for a spot on the executive team, which is elected every two years and works voluntarily.
Team:
Chairman: Modasser Hussain
Vice-Chairman: Abdullah Khan
President: Tania Manir
Vice President: Humayun Kabir (Junior)
General Secretary: Sohel Ahmed
Finance Secretary: Abul Basar
Cultural Secretary: Mizanur Rahman Prodhan
Director: Rahim Badshah