Volunteer for Hope Organization Launches its Educational Academy

In a ceremony attended by prominent social, religious, and educational figures from Jerusalem, the Volunteer for Hope Organization inaugurated its Educational Academy at its headquarters in Beit Hanina. The event was sponsored by a number of Palestinian institutions and companies, including the Islamic Solidarity Fund, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, Bank of Jerusalem, and Hamouda Company. The gathering was honored by the presence of Bishop Atallah Hanna, former Jerusalem Minister Hatim Abdul Qader, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation’s Ambassador to Palestine Ahmed Al-Ruwaidi, Fatah Secretary in Jerusalem Shadi Mtour, Joint List Knesset Member Osama Saadi, as well as Ziad Al-Hamouri, Director of the Jerusalem Center for Social and Economic Rights, representing the Jerusalem Community Work Committee, and Ahmad Al-Safadi from the national forces and activities.

In her speech, Ms. Sylvia Abu Laban, President of the organization, welcomed attendees and announced that the academy was established in response to the unique needs of Jerusalem. She highlighted the city’s need for an organization dedicated to serving the most vulnerable groups, especially children in distress who need support in their lives. The academy will also help Jerusalem’s youth expand their thinking and inspire a spirit of volunteerism, while empowering women by developing their skills, strengthening their independence, and supporting individuals with special needs.

Ms. Abu Laban added that the academy’s opening reflects an idea that has been in development for two years, thanks to a dedicated team from Jerusalem’s educational and social sectors. The name, Volunteer for Hope, was chosen to underscore the value of volunteerism in the Jerusalem community, aiming to reinvigorate its significance and open doors for those eager to serve. The organization aspires to build a generation of conscious Palestinians who contribute to the preservation and development of Jerusalem.

The event included artistic performances by the Frere School and acclaimed Palestinian artist Ahmad Abu Saloum, as well as an art exhibition featuring expressive paintings by artist Shihab Al-Qawasmi, a fashion exhibit by designers Essam Al-Sabah and Heba Abu Rmeileh, a handicraft display by the talented Amal Mtour, and artwork by artist Nasser Al-Din. Additionally, breast cancer awareness brochures were distributed. To recognize their support, Ms. Abu Laban honored several institutions, including the Islamic Solidarity Fund, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, Bank of Jerusalem, Hamouda Company, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Social Development, the Jerusalem region office, Al-Quds University, Frere School, Augusta Victoria Hospital, the Family Planning Association, and the Fajr Al-Quds Foundation.