The Kontagious Story

John & Carol (Founders)

Kontagious began in 2016 with a simple yet powerful conversation between Bob Thomas, Ken Raasch, and John. They reflected on the immense influence of Silicon Valley and the growing number of Indian professionals moving to the Bay Area—many of whom were struggling to adapt to American life. Moved by this reality, John and Carol felt a deep calling to make a meaningful difference. They believed that investing in this community could ripple outward in powerful ways. That conviction led them to officially launch Kontagious in 2016 with a heart to serve South Asian professionals navigating the complexities of family, parenting, and life in a new cultural landscape.

A lifetime of memories: Bob Thomas, John Christian and Ken Raasch

In 2017, Kontagious began by creating space for connection through joyful, culturally resonant events like Bollywood dance nights, park yoga, and chai gatherings. But the deeper purpose was still taking shape. Everything changed in 2018 after a pivotal encounter with students at San Jose State University. Relationships with students like Sarang, Mahi, and Neha revealed a crucial insight: university students, especially international grads, were in urgent need of community, guidance, and care. Kontagious found its focus.

      Kontagious: Campus Connection Ignites!

Quarantine Chronicles – Covid-19

Then came the pandemic. As the world shut down, Kontagious stepped up. With love and compassion at its core, the team met students at the airport—over 1500 in three semesters—offering rides, meals, shopping help, and a sense of belonging in the midst of fear and isolation. In that season of crisis, Kontagious became a lifeline, a “family away from home,” and its mission became unmistakably clear.

   Professional help by Sara - Smiles that bridge the gap

Since 2020, Kontagious has grown into thriving student communities at San Jose State and Santa Clara University. Through resume workshops, interview prep, leadership training, retreats, hikes, and cultural events, the organization equips students not only for professional success but for personal growth and meaningful connection. A beautiful full-circle story is now unfolding: the students once served are now leading, mentoring, and giving back to the next wave. Kontagious is building a culture where kindness, belonging, and transformation are contagious.

   Game nights - A night where fun took a sharp turn

   Journey to a fun community and lifelong friendships starts here

New horizon of influence: Relationships & networking at Tahoe leadership camp

 My journey - Stranger no more: Finding my fun Kontagious family

At its heart, Kontagious is more than an organization—it’s a journey from stranger to family, from uncertainty to purpose, and from being served to serving others.