About YMA
Who We Are
We are delighted to welcome you to the Yonkers Malayalee Association, a vibrant cultural organization dedicated to uniting the Malayalee community in Yonkers, New York, and surrounding areas. Since our founding in 2000, we have been committed to celebrating and preserving the rich culture and heritage of Kerala through a variety of cultural programs, events, and community initiatives.
Our association serves as a home away from home for Malayalees in Yonkers, providing a platform to connect, celebrate, and pass on our traditions to future generations. From our annual Onam celebrations to cultural shows, food festivals, and family picnics, the Yonkers Malayalee Association brings the spirit of Kerala to life in the heart of New York.
Our Vision
The vision of the Yonkers Malayalee Association is to preserve, promote, and perpetuate the rich values, traditions, and cultural heritage of Kerala while fostering a sense of unity and belonging among Malayalees in Yonkers and beyond.
Through our events and programs, we aim to:
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Celebrate Kerala’s festivals, art, music, and traditions.
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Provide a platform for artists and performers to showcase their talents.
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Educate younger generations about their cultural heritage.
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Build bridges of understanding and cooperation with other communities.
Our Mission
The mission of the Yonkers Malayalee Association is to:
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Preserve and Promote Kerala’s Culture: Through events like Onam, cultural shows, and food festivals, we keep the traditions of Kerala alive in Yonkers.
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Foster Community Spirit: We provide a welcoming space for Malayalees to connect, share experiences, and build lifelong friendships.
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Support the Next Generation: We encourage young Malayalees to embrace their heritage through cultural education and participation in our events.
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Collaborate with Other Organizations: We work with other cultural and community organizations to promote diversity and mutual understanding.
Our Activities
Annual Onam Celebration
Pookkalam, Onam Sadhya, Cultural Performances, Games and Competitions, tug-of-war & more.
Cultural Shows and Talent Nights
These events feature performances in music, dance, drama, and more, highlighting the rich cultural traditions of Kerala.
Family Picnic
Our annual family picnic is a fun-filled day of games, food, and bonding for members of all ages. It’s a great opportunity for families to relax, connect, and enjoy the outdoors.
New Year & Christmas Celebrations
These events include family activities, games, and a general body meeting to reflect on the past year and plan for the future.