As we celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary, 2026 also marks Unity for Equality’s 10th Anniversary.  ”One Community, One Vision” has been our core philosophy since the organization was founded by Neil Trivedi in 2016. Unity For Equality assists underserved communities and immigrant families in the New York City Metro area by helping them integrate into society civically and economically.  In honor of this milestone, here is a brief history:

Originally South Asians For Equality, the name was officially changed to Unity for Equality in 2017, when the organization started serving people of all backgrounds. In 2018, the organization expanded from the New York City Metro area to countries including Liberia, Egypt, Morocco, Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh, giving UFE a chance to serve millions of people worldwide. In 2019, UFE reached the milestone of having over 1,000 volunteers from all different parts of the world, proving that multitudes of people want to help make a difference if given the chance. 

Then came the Covid-19 pandemic, when everyone in the world quite literally feared for their lives, we were all quarantined, and it felt like the disaster would never end.  It was at this time that the Unity For Equality team sprang into action by delivering groceries, hot meals, personal hygiene products, and other necessities to those in need. Unity For Equality also partnered with New York City Health and Hospitals to distribute over 5,000 face masks and hand sanitizers, and aided people in receiving vaccinations, as well.

Then, in 2022, Unity For Equality launched Project Sarika, which provided less fortunate children with school supplies, uniforms, and even tuition. Unity For Equality has also provided many students with scholarships, helping them to obtain the educations they desire, including the Senior Master Sergeant Harold Colbert Scholarship.  

Among many other achievements, Unity For Equality has assisted more than 23,000 individuals in accessing healthcare and health information.  It has paid $25,000 worth of student loan debt through assistance provided for education, and awarded $15,000 worth of scholarships to students struggling financially.  Close to 5,000 individuals were helped in filing for unemployment during the pandemic, and more than 6,500 hours have been donated cleaning local parks and community gardens.

Founder and Chairman Neil Trivedi says, “As we celebrate the 10th Anniversary of Unity For Equality, I am humbled and honored to reflect on a decade of service, advocacy, and community impact. Since our founding on November 7, 2016, our mission has remained steadfast: to advance equality, empower communities, and create opportunities for those who need them most. Over the last ten years, we have witnessed the extraordinary power of people coming together across backgrounds, beliefs, and experiences to create positive change. This milestone belongs not only to our organization but to every volunteer, donor, partner, board member, and supporter who believed in our vision. While we are proud of what we have accomplished, we remain even more excited about the future. The challenges before us are great, but so too is our determination to build a more just, inclusive, and equitable world. On behalf of Unity For Equality, thank you for being part of this remarkable journey. Here’s to the next decade of impact, hope, and opportunity.”

President Linda Najok says, “Reaching the 10-year milestone is a meaningful reminder of what can happen when people come together around a shared purpose. Unity for Equality’s journey reflects the dedication, passion, and commitment of the individuals who have contributed their time and talents to advancing its mission.  As we celebrate this milestone, we honor the foundation that has been built while looking ahead to the opportunities that lie before us. I am excited about the next chapter and the continued opportunity to strengthen our impact, engage new voices, and create meaningful change in the communities we serve. Here’s to the next decade of purpose, progress, and unity!”

“Equality is not merely the dream of a better world; it is the responsibility we carry to build one,” says Payal Dedhia, who is on the board of directors.  “As we celebrate 10 years of Unity for Equality, we honor a decade of courage, compassion, and collective action. May we continue to break barriers, unite hearts, and create a world where every individual is valued, every voice is heard, and every human being has the opportunity to thrive. The journey continues, and our commitment to equality remains unwavering.”  Dr. Gail Phoenix, who is also on the board says, “For 10 years, Unity For Equality has demonstrated that meaningful change begins when we see potential where others see barriers. As a board member, I am proud to be part of an organization committed to expanding opportunity, advancing equity, and creating pathways toward economic independence for underserved communities. Our greatest achievement is not simply 10 years of service, but the lives we continue to influence and the possibilities we help make real.”   Assistant Human Resources Director, Ta’Shana Leverette, says “Ten years of Unity for Equality represents more than a milestone; it represents a decade of purpose, commitment, resilience, and meaningful change. It is a reminder that when people come together with a shared vision, they can create opportunities, empower communities, and make a lasting difference. I am grateful to be part of an organization that believes in the power of unity, the importance of equality, and the impact of giving others a voice. May the next 10 years bring even greater growth, stronger connections, and continued positive change.”