UAE Launches New Framework to Boost Volunteerism
In a significant move to bolster community engagement, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, has introduced a comprehensive framework aimed at expanding volunteerism across the nation. This initiative, part of the ‘Year of Community,’ seeks to enhance the contributions of nonprofit organizations and promote sustainable development through a series of strategic initiatives.
Overview of the Volunteering and Community Engagement Ecosystem
Sheikh Mohammed announced the launch of the Volunteering and Community Engagement Ecosystem from Qasr Al Watan, emphasizing the goal of increasing the volunteer base to 600,000 individuals. The initiative includes a unified digital platform designed to streamline services for nonprofit organizations and aims to boost their numbers by 30%. This ambitious plan is supported by a fund of 100 million dirhams, which will facilitate various community projects and services.
The initiative is backed by the Education, Human Resources, and Community Development Council, which plays a crucial role in coordinating national efforts to enhance social capital in the UAE. The ecosystem comprises eight strategic initiatives under the Ministry of Community Empowerment, focusing on promoting a culture of volunteerism and empowering nonprofit organizations.
Key Strategic Initiatives
National Volunteering Strategy
At the heart of the ecosystem is the National Volunteering Strategy, which aims to establish volunteering as a core community value. This strategy will develop policies and legislation that expand both specialized and general volunteering opportunities, encouraging participation from all segments of society.
Volunteers.ae 2.0
The revamped digital hub, Volunteers.ae 2.0, serves as a platform connecting individuals with volunteering opportunities. It offers an interactive experience, allowing users to match their skills with available roles, making the process of volunteering more accessible and impactful.
7 Over 7 Campaign
The ‘7 Over 7’ campaign is a nationwide initiative that promotes skill-based volunteering across all seven Emirates. This campaign is designed to enhance community participation and collaboration, encouraging citizens to engage in meaningful volunteer work.
Your Time Counts Initiative
Another significant initiative, ‘Your Time Counts,’ aims to integrate volunteering into the federal government sector. It encourages government employees to volunteer by linking their voluntary leave to performance management standards, thereby fostering a culture of giving within public service.
Empowering Nonprofit Organizations
The strategic initiatives also focus on empowering the nonprofit sector through four dedicated programs:
One Stop Shop
The One Stop Shop is a digital platform that consolidates services and procedures for nonprofit organizations into a single integrated system, simplifying the process for new and existing entities.
Dh100M Empowerment Fund
The Empowerment Fund allocates 100 million dirhams to support the nonprofit sector, promoting sustainable investment that yields tangible impacts on community development.
Nonprofit Sector Launchpad
This initiative serves as an incubator for transforming innovative ideas into licensed nonprofit organizations, providing essential support for new ventures.
Plug-in for Leadership Programs
The Plug-in for Leadership Programs aims to cultivate a new generation of leaders who understand the role of nonprofit organizations as strategic partners in national development.
Goals for the Future
The overarching aim of these initiatives is to instill values of collaboration, generosity, and community contribution throughout the UAE. The strategic plan aspires to position the UAE as a global leader in organized community engagement, providing opportunities for all citizens to participate in philanthropic efforts.
Over the next five years, the initiatives are expected to achieve significant milestones, including elevating the UAE’s ranking in the World Giving Index to among the top three countries. The plan also targets an increase in active volunteers to 600,000, contributing a total of 15 million volunteer hours. Additionally, it aims to double the contribution of nonprofit organizations to the national GDP, create 10,000 new jobs in the sector, and increase the number of licensed nonprofit organizations by 30%.
FAQs
What is the Volunteering and Community Engagement Ecosystem?
The Volunteering and Community Engagement Ecosystem is a national initiative launched to enhance volunteerism and support nonprofit organizations in the UAE, aiming to grow the volunteer base and improve community engagement.
How will the initiatives impact the nonprofit sector?
The initiatives are designed to empower the nonprofit sector through funding, streamlined services, and leadership programs, ultimately increasing their contributions to the national economy and community development.
What are the goals for volunteer participation in the UAE?
The strategic initiatives aim to increase the number of active volunteers to 600,000 and achieve 15 million volunteer hours over the next five years, fostering a culture of giving and community involvement.
Conclusion
The launch of the Volunteering and Community Engagement Ecosystem marks a pivotal step in enhancing community involvement and supporting nonprofit organizations in the UAE. With a clear strategy and substantial funding, these initiatives are set to create a lasting impact on the culture of volunteerism and community development in the country. As these programs unfold, they promise to engage citizens and foster a spirit of collaboration and generosity for future generations.
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