Thank you all for your kind words. We feel humble if we can make any difference to the life of a community member. On
a similar note, we like to inform that we have upgraded our section on "Assistance for the community" under resources
in our BGATX website.
 
http://www.bagatx.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=148&Itemid=100
 
The page lists where community members can get assistance on Heath care services, Education, Basic needs, Victim services,
Legal services with either no fees or with small fees. Under each provider, we have listed their contact information, eligibilty
requirements and the services they provide.
 
The following are some of the services provided by the listed service providers::
 
Heath care services --> Primary care, Dental, Pediatrics, Women's health, Mental heath
 
Education --> Reading, Mathematics, English, Computer classes, Parenting, Workplace competency
 
Basic needs --> Food, Shelter for recently arrived immigrants, Clothing
 
Victim Services --> Psychotherapy or counseling, Investigative services, Psychiatric Services
 
Legal Services --> Victim of domestic abuse seeking residency and work authorization, Victims of violent crimes, including trafficking,
seeking residency and work authorization, Free income tax preparation
 
We hope some of the situation never applies to our community members but otherwise we hope you can take advantage of these information. Also,
we need to improve the legibility of the page and any community member like to volunteer in that effort we would really appreciate that.
 
BAGA BODs 2011- 2012

Dear Bangladeshi Community Members:
 
As you already know BAGA has dedicated the 40th Victory Day celebrations to community services. We have planned a community forum for the community to discuss topics that are extremely relevant for our well being and things that we all need to be prepared as a community and as families. The experts we have lined up will provide you valuable information that it is absolutely worthwhile for your and your family's time. Your enthusiastic participation will not only encourage our guest speakers but will also allow us to do more forums to better serve your needs in the future. Below are the forum discussion topics:
 
1. Emergency Preparedness and CPR TrainingEmergency situations can be of different forms and does not come with ample notice. It is extremely important for us to be prepared so that we can handle emergencies effectively as a family and as a community. In light of the recent wildfires this is a crucial topic for all of to be knowledgeable about. The importance of CPR training cannot be emphasized enough. During emergencies, the critical seconds and minutes can be vital and the ability to perform CPR can be life saving. We are delighted to announce that Austin Fire Department will be sending their experts to our forum to cover this and other valuable topics. Austin Fire Department will also try to bring a Fire Engine to entertain the kids.
 
2. Healthcare: Medical Coverage in Central Texas for Uninsured, How to Live a Healthy Life
We are proud to have a number of health care professionals in our community. We will discuss the various healthcare program that are available through Travis and Williamson counties that we can avail for our family and community members that are visiting us and are in need of affordable healthcare coverage. Dr. Begum will also discuss important topic on wellness and how to monitor our health conditions to live a better life.
 
3. College Preparation, Admissions and Scholarship Opportunities
Our younger generations have already started graduating from college and a big number of them are getting ready to enter college. College entrance and education is getting increasingly difficult and expensive. As parents and future college bound student it is useful to know how to apply for admissions, how to prepare for college and what are the resources available for scholarships. Experts from our community will discuss the finer details about these topics that will give your child an advantage in this competitive but very important area. We will also hear from a college student who have successfully navigated through these waters and will provide important insights.
 
4. Job Preparation, Interview Preparation and Resume Writing
In addition to the topics listed above, we will also host round table table discussions for community members who are interested to talk to professionals and experts who can help with prepare better for a prospective job opportunity. With the tighter job market with hundreds of applicants, these experts will help answers your questions to prepare you better for your job search.

The speakers will also available to answer your questions after their presentation.
 
Dear Members, we have planned these topics to better serve and prepare our community members in terms of our needs. We cannot make these forums successful without your active participation. Your enthusiastic participation will not only encourage our guest speakers but will also allow us to do more forums to better serve your needs in the future. The names of the speakers will be announced prior to the event once we have all the logistics finalized.
 
If you have any question, please email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or contact Syed Rahman Rana (512.659.8469), Rashed Islam (512.586.8309), or Mithu Rahman (512.287.0066)
 
Sincerely,
 
BAGA Board of Directors 2011-12
www.bagatx.org