Surjit Kaur Gill lived a humble life as a nurse and single mother. She immigrated to the United States in 1976, while she was five months pregnant with her daughter, Rippi Gill. She made Yonkers and New York City her home for over thirty years and was passionate about many causes during her lifetime, including those both in the United States and in her native homeland of India. Causes near and dear to her heart included ensuring access to education for girls in developing countries, combatting blindness, animal welfare, and supporting health care workers.

As a young girl growing up in India, she understood the importance of access to education. Her ability to pursue a career in nursing had a profound impact on her life. For decades, she worked tirelessly as a nurse helping others in need, and she would have done the same for those suffering during the current Covid-19 crisis.

She also deeply loved animals, from her beloved dogs (Lassie, Ruby, and Lucky) to the birds she would feed leftover rice and bread to every week.

Another particular passion of hers was one that she shared with her father-Rippi's grandfather-volunteering with charities in India focused on ending blindness. They both shared a belief that preserving and restoring sight led to better opportunities for those less fortunate.

This Foundation was established by Surjit K. Gill's daughter, Rippi Gill, together with her future son-in-law, Tawfiq Rangwala, to honor her memory by raising funds and awareness relating to these important causes.