Celebrating Diwali with Naperville Leaders and Seniors
On November 6, 2026, Metropolitan Asian Family Services (MAFS) hosted a Diwali celebration at the Universal Metro Aging Services (UMAS) Naperville Adult Day Services location. Seniors, community members, elected officials, and public safety leaders came together to celebrate the Festival of Lights and its message of hope, unity, and togetherness.
Who joined the celebration
Guests included Mayor Scott Wehrli, Councilman Ashfaq Syed, Councilwoman Supna Jain, Councilwoman Mary Gibson, Deputy Fire Chief Phill Giannattasio, and Deputy Police Chiefs Richard Arnesault and Tim Erdman.
A festive day for seniors
The celebration began with a traditional tilak welcome. Guests enjoyed festive sweets, cultural activities, and handmade Diwali cards made by participants in the MAFS Memory Café Program, a showcase of the seniors' creativity and engagement. Seniors also performed during the celebration, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Words from community leaders
Mayor Wehrli and Councilman Syed gave warm welcoming remarks about the importance of community, cultural diversity, and support for older adults. Councilwoman Jain expressed her appreciation for the welcoming atmosphere and was especially impressed by the seniors' enthusiasm, creativity, and involvement. Deputy Fire Chief Giannattasio and Deputy Police Chiefs Arnesault and Erdman also shared their gratitude for the chance to connect with seniors and community members.
During the event, Dr. Santosh Kumar, Executive Director of MAFS, spoke with Mayor Wehrli about the growing need for affordable housing for immigrant seniors in Naperville, an important community priority that MAFS continues to advocate for.
Time together
A highlight of the day was the time leaders spent with seniors: talking with them, joining the festivities, sharing a traditional Diwali luncheon, and celebrating side by side.
Thank you
MAFS thanks all the dignitaries, staff, volunteers, and community members whose participation made the celebration a memorable one, in the true spirit of Diwali.
To learn how Universal Metro Aging Services supports seniors and families in Chicagoland, call 847-306-7606 or visit umasinc.com.
Frequently asked questions
What is Diwali?
Diwali is the Festival of Lights. This celebration focused on its message of hope, unity, and togetherness.
Where was this Diwali celebration held?
At the Universal Metro Aging Services (UMAS) Naperville Adult Day Services location. Metropolitan Asian Family Services (MAFS) hosted the event.
What did seniors do at the celebration?
They received a traditional tilak welcome, enjoyed sweets and cultural activities, shared a Diwali luncheon with community leaders, performed for guests, and displayed handmade Diwali cards from the MAFS Memory Café Program.
