Sharjah Award For Voluntary Work Enhances Community Impact Through Digital Transformation Plan

The Board of Trustees of the Sharjah Award for Voluntary Work (SAVW) recently convened to discuss strategies for enhancing the award's societal impact. Chaired by Ahmed Ibrahim Al Mail, who also leads the Sharjah Social Services Department, the meeting focused on several key topics aimed at developing the award further. A new indicators programme was approved to measure performance and outcomes, featuring 80 specific indicators to boost efficiency and maintain transparency.

During the meeting, Ahmed Ibrahim Al Mail expressed gratitude for the support from His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi and H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi. He highlighted that adopting the new indicators programme and digital transformation plan marks a significant shift in achieving the award's goals. These initiatives aim to inspire individuals and institutions to engage in volunteer projects that contribute to sustainable development.

The Board reviewed revenues from endowments dedicated to supporting various activities and programmes of the award. The focus was on sustainable investment of these resources to enhance SAVW's role in promoting volunteerism and social responsibility. This approach ensures that the award continues its pioneering efforts in instilling volunteer values within society.

Dr. Jassim Al Hammadi, Secretary-General of SAVW, emphasised that the award consistently works to embed a culture of volunteering across different sectors. It remains a platform that encourages creativity and community service, elevating volunteer work's status in Sharjah. The commitment is towards fostering an environment where innovative community initiatives can thrive.

Fatima Musa Al Belushi, Executive Director of SAVW, highlighted achievements from 2024 during the meeting. Since its inception 22 years ago, SAVW has organised 21 editions, honouring 1,259 winners across various categories. The previous edition saw remarkable participation with 125,389 volunteer hours logged by 3,038 volunteers across 45 opportunities, supported financially by AED47,033.

The digital transformation plan was also discussed as part of continuous development efforts. This plan aims to streamline procedures and bolster future support for volunteer work. SAVW envisions itself as a leading platform for spreading volunteering culture and encouraging innovative community initiatives through these advancements.

Expanding Impact Through Awareness

SAVW has expanded its categories to include 14 diverse segments targeting different societal groups. This expansion enhances its comprehensiveness and impact within the community. Special emphasis is placed on community awareness through organising lectures and publishing specialised materials to educate society about volunteering benefits.

Al Mail noted that SAVW is advancing its pioneering role by adopting innovative tools and programmes supporting volunteer work outcomes. These efforts ensure achieving the award's objectives while reflecting an unwavering commitment to serving the community effectively.

The meeting underscored SAVW's dedication to promoting volunteerism as a vital component of societal development in Sharjah. By continuously evolving its strategies and expanding its reach, SAVW aims to foster a culture of giving that strengthens community cohesion.

With inputs from WAM