On April 23rd 2010, alumni participated in a 5K race to raise funds for a new recreational area in the children’s wing of the Palestine Medical Complex. Over 800 people volunteered for this event, with Prime Minister Salam Fayyad leading the participants to the finish line after giving his opening remarks.

The alumni made significant contributions, which led to the overall success of this event.   YES alumni Mohammad Al Khatib ‘06, Mahmoud Itefat ‘08, Dia’ Eddin Sharaf ‘08 and Jihad Naji ‘05 helped raise money to fund the event, and promoted the 5K race by distributing applications at the Souq Al Haraja. To further promote the event; alumni also made guest appearances on the children’s show “Biet Bueit”, which was filmed in front of the children’s wing of the medical complex and broadcasted on Palestine TV. Dalia Najjar ‘08, Mahmoud Itefat ‘08, Dia’ Eddin Sharaf ‘08, Montaser Amro ‘06 and Jihad Naji ‘05 dressed up in clown costumes and other characters, to entertain the children who participated in the TV show.

The weather was perfect on the day of the race, and everyone was excited to be a part of such a wonderful community building event. English Access Microscholarship alumni were also on hand as volunteers, standing along the race route as guides and water distributors. The race raised over $30,000 USD for the recreational area, and its organizers hope that this will become an annual event for the children’s hospital. The alumni ended the day feeling rewarded and happy, contented that their success was well worth all the hard work and planning!