In the journey of any organization, there are certain individuals who stand out as pillars of support, guiding forces that help navigate through challenges and propel growth. Today, we have the immense pleasure of expressing our deepest gratitude to one such exceptional board member, Priya Gupta, who has been with Simply the Basics since our founding, first meeting us at our Launch Party in 2016.

As a member of our Board of Directors, Priya has been a steadfast and devoted volunteer. Her unwavering dedication to our cause has been nothing short of remarkable. As we look back at our beginning years when we were packing hygiene kits out of our apartments, Priya would open her home and community to Simply the Basics, so much as having a birthday party dedicated toward learning more about our cause! Additionally, she has engaged her own family in collecting supplies and ensuring that they made it to people who needed them.

Priya's enthusiasm and passion lit up the room during our early meetings and events, always ensuring that we were remaining on task in strategic discussions and leaving with a strong plan of action. She has consistently been the driving force behind our mission, leading by example and inspiring others to follow suit.

One of the most significant contributions Priya has made over the yeras is in the realm of strategic planning. With her sharp mind and visionary outlook, she has consistently displayed the ability to think several steps ahead, identifying potential challenges and devising ingenious solutions. She always asks “What do you need from me?” when it came to ensuring the staff had all of the tools and support that is needed in reaching out goals.

Priya also always demonstrated a commitment to understanding and advocating for the community we serve is truly commendable. She always made great efforts to learn as much as possible about the needs, concerns, and aspirations of the people we aim to support. This level of empathy and understanding has enabled us to tailor our programs and initiatives to create a more profound and lasting impact on those we serve.

When we reflect on the growth and success of our organization, Priya has been at the heart of every one of our accomplishments. Her contributions extend far beyond the boardroom, ensuring that Simply the Basics is always meeting with more members of the community, hosting large volunteer activities at her children’s schools or coordinating fundraising events to ensure we had our financial needs met as well.

I know that I speak for the entire board of directors when I say that Priya has been a mentor and an inspiration to all of us. Her generosity of spirit and willingness to go the extra mile have left an indelible mark on our organization's culture, there is no task to big or small that we cannot work on together.

On behalf of the entire organization, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Priya.

Priya, your presence has been a gift to us all, and your dedication has been the bedrock of our success. As we continue on this path, guided by your wisdom and inspired by your relentless pursuit of excellence, we can't help but feel deeply grateful for having had you as an integral part of our journey. And as you begin a new adventure with your family, we are grateful knowing that we will continue to have you as a friend, advisor, and support system no matter how far the distance.

Here's to you, Priya - a true champion of our cause, a strategic mastermind, and a cherished friend. I am so very happy that you attended our Launch Party those years ago - Thank you for everything you do.