8000 support Dubai Cares’ Walk for Education event

Eight thousand people of all ages turned out for the Walk for Education 2014 event held by Dubai Cares.

The 3km walk was organised to highlight the challenges faced by primary-age children in getting a basic education. That’s the average distance children in the developing world have to walk each day to get to school.

Dubai Cares, a philanthropic organisation, has held the annual walk for the past five years as a community-focused event to engage children and their families as well as the public and private sectors.

Hosted by radio personality Kris Fade, the event at Jumeirah Beach Park featured a face-painting booth, games arcade, children’s games, photo booth and performances by acrobats.

Priti Vyas, one of the participants in the walk, said: “Every year I contribute to Dubai Cares and I really appreciate the work they do. I will continue supporting them and would like to get involved more in their community activities such as the Walk for Education.”

Tariq Al Gurg, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Cares, thanked the crowd, saying: “Although our philanthropic work is based in developing countries around the world, the UAE community has always been our pillar of strength and support.”

He said their continued generosity meant the organisation has been able to reach more than eight million children across 31 countries and provide them with the tools to break the cycle of poverty and build a future of personal, professional, economic and social prosperity.

He thanked the volunteers and the event’s main sponsor Chevron Al Khalij, saying the company had been “a strong ally in our mission to generate awareness about the work we do”.

Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State and Dubai Cares Chairperson, said: “I am delighted to learn that a dynamic and energetic group has gathered today to promote a cause that is integral to growth and development in today’s world – education.

“As a community, we have constantly channeled our energies, not only into realising our own goals but also in empowering developing countries around the world.”

Visit the Dubai Cares website for more information about the organisation and its work.