ROTA Honors Ramadan Partners and Volunteers
Reach Out To Asia (ROTA), in honor of those who participated and partnered with ROTA for its “ROTA Reaches Out To All Children” Ramadan 2011 campaign, held an reflection event as a token of appreciation for their efforts. Over seventy volunteers and partner representatives attended, with volunteers receiving certificates, and partners awarded.
“This is the fifth year that in which ROTA held a Ramadan campaign,” said Mr. Essa Al Mannai, ROTA Director. “Even though each year’s was a huge success, this year was especially successful in that we partnered with numerous key companies and organizations. I would like to personally thank Al Meera, THE One, Qatar First Investment Bank, and Dhreima for making a difference to so many people throughout the Holy Month. This show of generosity and altruism captures the essence and spirit of Ramadan.”
A variety of activities were held, targeting different segments of the community. In the week prior to Ramadan, ROTA and Al Meera, teamed up to distribute basic food items to needy families in the Qatar. While Al Meera generously offered the food for free, ROTA volunteers handed out the packages.
THE One, Qatar’s premium furniture retail chain, supported a house renovation for an underprivileged Qatari family by providing brand new furniture and volunteers to do general repairs. Qatar First Investment Bank also sponsored another house renovation, in addition to supported an iftar for the residents of the Qatar Foundation for the Elderly. Prior to the month of Ramadan, the bank also distributed food vouchers for the elderly.
In fulfilling ROTA’s “ROTA Reaches Out To All Children ” campaign,Dhreimanot only was a key beneficiary, but also hosted an iftar honoring the campaign sponsors, in addition to holding Garangaou celebrations for the children.
“Thanks to our partners and sponsors,houses have been turned into homes, and orphans enjoyed the month’s festivities,” continued Mr. Al Mannai. “As this campaign was volunteer-driven, success would not have been possible without the scores of young men and woman who selflessly donated their time for a greater cause. These volunteers truly understand and embraced the values of Ramadan.
” Even though volunteerism is, itself, the volunteers themselves got something out of the campaign.
“This is the first time I have ever volunteered for Ramadan activities,” said ROTA Volunteer. “Even though the direct beneficiaries were the children, the elderly, and the families we helped out, I felt like a beneficiary as well. I learned how my actions can positively affect those in need, and it gave me a window into the lives of people not as fortunate as myself. I can honestly say, for the first time in my life, I have really lived Ramadan this year.”
