The Kingdom has also recently seen a number of volunteer groups who spend their time and energy in helping others. It is due to the work that such groups and individuals do that the United Nations designated Dec. 5 as International Volunteer Day 25 years ago. The day is used to recognize and thank charities for the work they do and to raise awareness about social awareness.
The Society of Majid bin Abdulaziz for Development and Social Services, an organization that encourages social responsibility in the public sector, has been holding a social development forum every two years since 2009 to discuss issues about sustainable development and recognize volunteers in the western region.
This year, the society intends to hold a volunteer leaders' meeting on Dec. 4 to shed light on the biggest successes and obstacles facing volunteer groups in Jeddah. The society hopes to come out of the meeting with a clear plan on how to encourage social responsibility.
“The volunteer initiative aims to institutionalize volunteer work in all relevant institutions and facilitate the matchmaking process between volunteers and institutions that need volunteers,” said Ali Al-Banawi, project manager for the volunteer meeting.
“Perhaps, the most exciting aspect for aspiring and active volunteer groups is the incubation service. This service also includes relevant training for effective social impact and support in the process of registering as a legal developmental entity,” he added.
In 2011, Majid Society will also carry out several campaigns to encourage people to volunteer, educate people about relevant issues and spread awareness about the concept of social responsibility.
