EGA offers social inclusion to children from Awladouna centre

Supporting special needs children and giving them the chance to integrate in social activities

United Arab Emirates, 17 February 2016: Emirates Global Aluminium (“EGA”), invited children from Awladouna Center to join in its annual CSR initiative coincident with the 27th edition of the Omega Dubai Desert Classic (“ODDC”).

A group of 20 students from Awladouna Center, accompanied by six teachers and five volunteers was hosted by EGA’s CSR team at Emirates Golf Club on Thursday 4 February, during Round 1 of the tournament. The children had the opportunity to meet some of the top players competing in the event and enjoyed the carnival-like atmosphere at the tournament village where a wide range of activities, relaxation zones and interactive opportunities were on offer. As a responsible corporate social citizen, EGA is continuously on the look-out for that benefit and give back to the community. Leveraging its long-standing sponsorship of the ODDC, EGA took the initiative to invite these special needs children for an outing rich in social interaction that will help develop their social skills.

“EGA’s involvement in the ODDC is motivated by our corporate commitment to support the broader goals of the UAE government, specifically by showcasing our country to international audiences which, in turn, contributes to the socio-economic growth the nation,” commented Khalid Essa Buhumaid (Senior Vice President, Communication & Government Relations). “Each year, we leverage our sponsorship of the event to benefit a selected charitable organisation, with preference being given to the disadvantaged and disabled in our society. Moreover, we foster long-term relationships with centers, in order to provide continuous support that will help make a difference in society.”

Evidencing this, EGA has built a strong, long-term relationship with Awladouna Center, having previously supported various initiatives over the years. For example, EGA has donated AED 74,300 since 2013 towards different needs at the center – including building handrails around the upper floor opening and staircases for the children’s safety, closing in a balcony using Aluminium to create a small classroom, equipping two different vocational rooms and more.

Moreover, Emirates Global Aluminium (“EGA”) pro-actively supported the ‘Pink Friday’, at this year’s Omega Dubai Desert Classic tournament, by distributing 2,000 caps to spectators and media representatives as they arrive to watch the golf on Friday 5 February, to help raise awareness of breast cancer – thereby sending out a strong message of support for the cause. Pink Day is an annual activity hosted at EGA hosted, where health screening is offered to its female employees and a full programme of events is organised to highlight the importance of early detection. As part of this campaign, EGA also runs several fund-raising activities to raise money for UAE-based breast cancer charities.