Horace Mann, an American educational reformer once said: “doing nothing for others is the undoing of ourselves.” In other words, we as humans nurture our souls when we help others. Volunteering allows people to play an active role in their community while also promoting a sense of responsibility and a feeling of belonging. There are a number of opportunities in Abu Dhabi for young people to invest in their society, and here Tempo presents a selection of some of the most interesting ways to give back.
Zayed Giving Initiative
Described as a ‘unique model for humanitarian work,’ the Zayed Giving Initiative incorporates the principles outlined by the late founder of the UAE, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Millions of Arab and African people have benefitted from the work done by the initiative since its establishment in 2003, through the work of an army of over 50,000 volunteers.
There are several initiatives that extend from international projects like the medical treatment programme in Pakistan and field hospitals that were set up in Egypt and India, to more local causes like improving emergency response teams and building centres for the elderly and those with special needs.
Email zayedgiving@gmail.com
Nahtam
‘Nahtam,’ an Arabic term that means ‘we care,’ is an organisation aimed at meeting the “evolving needs of UAE citizens” and supporting underprivileged communities around the world. Their on-going initiatives include ‘Quit Smoking Awareness Campaign’ and ‘Water Bank International’. As a volunteer, your tasks could include administrative work support with fundraising events and working with children.
Visit www.nahtam.com
Takatof
Established in 2007, Takatof aims to increase social responsibility and enlighten communities about local people in need. One of the greatest advantages of Takatof is that they offer an extremely wide selection of projects that you can be involved in. The opportunities include renovating community centres and homes of underprivileged families; mentoring youth, and taking part in international projects that create a sustainable impact beyond the UAE borders.
Visit: http://www.takatof.ae/
Feline Friends
Feline Friends is a non-profit organisation established 25 years ago to save abandoned cats and provide them with “the home they deserve”. It is funded through events organised by volunteers. There are a plethora of jobs you can do to support their mission, from helping with communications, editing newsletters to recruiting foster homes.
Visit: www.felinefriendsabudhabi.com
Operation Smile
Operation Smile is an international children’s charity that offers free surgeries and post-operative care to children suffering from clefts. Established in 1982, it has carried out more than 200,000 free operations and performed over 2 million healthcare evaluations. The organization invites volunteers to help with administrative tasks, photography, graphic design, writing, IT and technical work.
Visit: www.arabemirates.operationsmile.org
Fundraise for Syrian Children
The donation page, designed by a 12-grade student studying in Abu Dhabi, targets a goal of $100,000 on ‘The Save, the Children Fund’ website. The fundraiser provides food, clothes and housing for Syrian Children whose lives have been torn apart by conflict and war. The organization offers ways of volunteer engagement.
Visit: www.savethechildren.org
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