Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (CLP)
Mangaluru, Dec 13: International Institute for Public Policy (IIPP), a family founded non-profit organization, on Saturday December 14 honoured veteran social worker Dr Olinda Pereira with the Outstanding Community Leader Award for the year 2013-2014. The ceremony was held at Fathima Retreat House.
The award was presented to Dr Olinda Pereira by bishop of Mangaluru Dr Aloysius Paul D'Souza and bishop of Shivamogga Dr Francis Serrao.
Houston-based NRI Max Rasquinha, founder-chairman of IIPP, presented special awards to bishop Dr Aloysius Paul and renowned singer Melwyn Peris for his contribution to the field of Konkani music. Fr Eugene Lobo and Fr Prashanth Madtha were also honoured.
Acknowledging the honour, Dr Olinda Pereira said, "I feel overwhelmed to receive the award. I have no words to express my joy. I thank everyone for coming and joining me on this occasion."
Addressing the gathering, Melwyn Peris recalled his association with Max Rasquinha and said, "I met Max during my 25th musical nite, and since then he has been supporting me. Whenever he sees my name in the media, he congratulates and appreciates me with good words. I wish long life to Max."
Fr Francis Serrao said, "It gives me great joy to be here, to celebrate the Mass and be a part of this programme. Max and Jessie couple and Olinda Pereira are whatever they recieve and serve the people around them. When a heart expands, purse contracts. When a purse expands, the heart contracts.
"I thank Max for his service to mankind, because of his generosity many have benefitted," he said.
Prior to the programme, a thanksgiving Mass was celebrated. The programme began with Christmas carols by students of School of Social Work, Roshni Nilaya.
Max Rasquinha presented special gifts blessed by Vatican blessed to all the guests. He also presented a gift from the White House to Dr Francis Serrao through Dr Olinda.
Director of AIMIT Fr Denzil Lobo sang 'I have a dream' accompanied by Melwyn Peris on guitar. Melwyn Peris and Anita D'Souza also rendered songs.
Nach Sobhann troupe presented scintillating dances.
Max Rasquinha concluded the programme with a prayer. Sachita Nandagopal proposed the vote of thanks.
Fr Santhosh of Fathima Retreat House, Jessie Rasquinha and others were present.