‘Distinguished Supporter of Volunteer Work’ Award at SAVW

This award comes within the 22nd session of the Sharjah Award for Voluntary Work, which continues until January 15, 2025.

A crucial step towards fostering a culture of volunteering

Fatima Musa Al Belushi, the Executive Director of the Award, emphasized that this category marks a significant step in fostering a culture of volunteering. She encouraged various organizations and individuals to rally their support in enhancing volunteer efforts. The award encompasses several categories, including government entities, civil institutions, the private sector, educational institutions, and individuals. This diversity reflects its comprehensive nature and aims to inspire contributions from all sectors.

She clarified that to participate, the support provided must create a positive and lasting impact, foster the success and sustainability of volunteer efforts, and meet the goals of the volunteer programs and opportunities. Additionally, the support should be directed towards volunteer activities undertaken during the participation year and align with the principles of social responsibility.

The award highlights that its focus is not on direct charitable actions like alms or zakat. Instead, it prioritizes support for voluntary programs and initiatives that aim to create a lasting social impact.

The eligibility criteria for participation encompass several key points. Firstly, support for volunteer initiatives must positively influence the success and sustainability of these efforts. Additionally, it should align with the objectives of volunteer programs and opportunities. Participants in the award need to demonstrate that the support provided for volunteer work was offered during the year of participation and adheres to the principles of social responsibility. It's important to note that this support should not take the form of direct charitable actions such as charity donations or zakat; instead, it should focus on enhancing volunteer programs and opportunities.

There are three primary types of support available: financial, cognitive, and policy support. Participants have the freedom to choose one of these options. Financial support can take various forms, including cash, goods, or services, and is offered for at least two volunteer programs, with a minimum allocation of AED 500,000.

If a participant opts for knowledge support, they must engage in publishing and advancing knowledge about volunteer work. This involves producing publications, conducting studies, and carrying out research, with at least one book published as a minimum requirement.

Participants who opt for policy support are encouraged to actively engage in the creation and implementation of effective policies that foster and regulate volunteer work within institutions.