The Pioneer Club of Keralites of North America at its general body meeting unanimously adopted a new constitution creating a more formal framework for effective functioning. Johny Zacharia, the current president of the Pioneer Club, is the chief architect of the new document.

“Ever since Zachariah took over, the organization is on a fast track enlisting more members and creating a stronger framework for smooth functioning,” said Raju Abraham, general secretary, while welcoming the participants.

Pioneer Club is a fraternity of people who immigrated to the U.S. in the 60s and 70s and continue to keep the friendships and camaraderie from those early days. The organization was inaugurated in 2006, bringing together about 200 early immigrants who lived in the tri-state area. Some of the notable founders who were present at the meeting included Dr Joseph Cheruvelil, V.M. Chacko, and George Abraham.

Johny Zachariah, in his presidential address, talked about the progress the Club has made in a short period, enrolling members, planning future programs, and energizing pioneers to come together more frequently and renew friendships.

Thomas in his address reflected on the past and reminded everyone that there is someone out there who might have helped every one of us to come to this blessed land and prosper, and they should never be forgotten.

V.M. Chacko recollected how late Achoy Mathews, a founding member and past President of the Club, helped him to come to this shore and expressed his deep gratitude in that regard.

The meeting also honoured George Abraham, a founding member of the pioneer club, for his contribution to the social and political arena to benefit the community. The executive committee of the Pioneer Club felicitated him with a Shawl. George Abraham served at the United Nations for 36 years and retired as a chief technology officer.