About Us
The India Catholic Association (ICA) of Central Texas is a registered non-profit organization based in Austin, and founded in 2001. It's mission is to preserve the cultural heritage and spiritual values of its members, and to make a positive impact on the local and global community through charitable projects.
The ICA organizes year-round community events where families enjoy connecting with each other, such as the Easter luncheon, camping, game night, and Christmas gala. The Taste of India (TOI) is ICA’s annual fundraiser – a cultural event which showcases traditional Indian cuisine, music, dance, and attire. Every year, the ICA invites charities from India to submit project proposals. A Funds Disbursement Committee identifies at least two qualified projects as beneficiaries of the annual TOI event. A certain portion of funds is donated to Mobile Loaves & Fishes, an Austin charity that empowers the homeless.
On the spiritual front, the ICA organizes an annual Lenten retreat, and facilitates first Friday prayer meetings that are hosted by 12 different families over the course of a year. The meetings begin with a Rosary followed by a teaching cum discussion, and a pot luck meal.
Founders
Board of Directors
President
Melissa Sacrafamilia
I moved to Texas in 2015 with my family. We have been members of ICA for the last 10 years and have made many friends that have become family to us.
This is my second time serving on the board of directors and look forward to continuing the great work done by our community.
Vice President
Praveen D'Souza
I am an engineer-turned-entrepreneur with nearly three decades of experience in the semiconductor industry, where I led teams developing advanced DSP and low-power product lines found in many of today’s consumer electronics. In recent years, I made a major life transition—leaving engineering to become a full-time farmer on the outskirts of Austin. My focus is on regenerative livestock management, mobile robotics, and rotational grazing systems. This work allows me to combine technical innovation with practical solutions for soil health, water conservation, and scalable food production.
I have been involved with the ICA since its inception and have participated in many of its activities. Over the years, I have watched the organization and community grow, and I am proud to be a member. In the past two years, I have also opened my farmhouse for ICA events, hosting fundraisers and gatherings that help youth and families create lifelong memories.
Aldila Lobo
Since our family moved to Austin in 2007, the ICA has been a welcoming beacon for us, providing a sense of belonging and community that has only grown stronger over the years. The warmth of the ICA family has been a constant source of support and inspiration, and I have witnessed firsthand how it fosters connection across generations.
For our children, the ICA has been an invaluable foundation—helping them nurture lifelong friendships and stay rooted in their cultural heritage, while also learning the importance of service and community involvement. For me, my journey began with the flagship Taste of India event, which opened my eyes to the powerful impact of ICA’s outreach and cultural presence in Austin. Since then, I have sought ways to contribute each year, whether through volunteering or serving on committees to support the success of this and other ICA initiatives.
Blaise D'Mello
I’ve been part of the ICA since its early days and have had the privilege of watching it grow into a thriving community over the past 20+ years. In that time, I’ve served as treasurer on the executive committee, contributed to the Christmas committee, and, together with my wife, supported the annual TOI fundraiser. The ICA has always been an important part of my family’s life, and I’m proud to see the positive impact it continues to create in Austin and abroad.
Carol D'Costa
I became a member of the ICA in 2009, and from the start ICA has been a true home away from home for me and my family. It gave us a sense of belonging, keeping us connected to our culture, faith, and the traditions we grew up with.
Over the years, ICA has grown to feel like family. Some of my fondest memories come from its gatherings—moments where friendships were built and our children had the chance to grow up rooted in both faith and culture. I’ve also been grateful for the opportunity to give back by helping organize the annual ICA picnic and camping event alongside my husband James, serving on the TOI 2025 committee where I was in charge of performances, and assisting with the selection and purchase of Christmas gifts for the kids over the past few years.
These experiences have given me a deeper appreciation for the hard work and teamwork that make ICA events so special.