9. The Logistics

Beyond dance and the rigorous practice sessions, Rangapravesam needs a TON of planning.

We met up with Uma's family after her event, just to discuss all that is needed to be done. Maya aunty was kind enough to provide us with the contact info of her resource in India that did all the program/banner designing and printing. As soon as my mom was home and recovered enough from surgery, we all spent several nights just shortlisting the photos for printing. Ravi uncle spent countless nights perfecting our banners like we requested. Anu aunty patiently reviewed our selections and helped us put together the final draft.

A bunch of moms from Nartana family reached out and offered their support, We have volunteers identified for helping me with my hair and dress changes as well as getting Taara ready. As soon as my third dress arrives here, we will have a practice session to ensure that the event day costume changes go smoothly.

I was clear from the beginning that I wanted to do a fundraiser with my Rangapravesam. I worked with my Kid Governor team at the Secretary of State's office to identify causes that are focused on ending homelessness. I further narrowed down my choice by looking for causes that specifically help homeless youth aging out of foster care system. Once we decided on Boys and Girls, my mom, Taara and I visited them in downtown Portland to further understand their services. My whole family attended their annual gala, as I was truly connected to their mission! We then worked with Angie, one of the coordinators of the organization, to get a personalized fundraising page setup. I truly hope that I reach my goal!

https://boysandgirlsaid.ejoinme.org/RaagaMandala

My mom and dad have been tirelessly working on sending the invitations out, figuring out what the headcount would be, how much seating and snacks we should plan for, etc. 

My mom finished writing the song she'd been working on, couple of days after returning from the hospital. Since then, she spent a lot of time getting the language double and triple checked by the literary experts in her circle. Harini akka has spent her valuable time setting the song to tune, meeting with mom and working extra hard to ensure proper pronunciation, as she does not speak Telugu. 

I fully expect the number of items on our logistics list to increase exponentially as we get closer to the event!

The concept of five elements mom wanted

Another picture that Ravi uncle spent a ton of time perfecting

Meeting with Kid Governor team- always a source of inspiration!

Visit to Boys and Girls Inc

At the Boys and Girls annual gala

After a meeting to review the pronunciation of the song mom wrote and Harini akka composed