In recent years, many countries in the Arab world have witnessed a growth in social responsibility movements. In the last three decades there has been an apparent increase in civil society organizations, and more recently, a growing interest from private and corporate sector to become involved in public welfare programs. Emerging voices called for institutionalized Arab funds for social and cultural causes. Indeed, a trend toward strategic Arab philanthropy in the form of organizations resembling foundations or endowments has sprung in response. Moreover, awareness among Arab youth about the complex social milieu that surrounds them and their desire to contribute to its improvement is also on the rise.

Thus, we believe that this is an opportune moment for creating synergies among existing philanthropies, social activists, and universities to advance active citizenry among all sectors in society.

Civic Engagement 

• Network with Arab universities to reinforce their role as agents of social change in their surrounding communities.
• Promote community based learning (CBL) as a fundamental approach to effective teaching and learning. 
• Establish international community service programs and courses to promote cross-cultural understanding and diversity. 
• Foster social innovation through student leadership programs, seminars for young professionals, pilot studies, and faculty development grants. 
• Stimulate effective volunteerism through linking universities, civic groups and communities.

Arab philanthropy

• Document the evolving field of Arab giving and highlight best practices. 
• Support the trend toward strategic philanthropy in service of greater social justice. 
• Provide technical services to start-up and expanding philanthropic institutions in the Arab region. 
• Strengthen collaboration between private philanthropy and companies engaged in corporate social responsibility (CSR). 
• Promote networking opportunities and strategic alliances for enhanced philanthropy in the Arab region and internationally. 
• Develop short courses and academic programs on philanthropy.

Research and Outreach

• Campus conversations, public lectures, and conferences to increase knowledge and understanding of philanthropy and responsible citizenship.
• Research and documentation on subjects ranging from motivations for youth activism to mapping Arab philanthropy. 
• Dissemination of information through print and electronic media. 
• Resource Center that houses a collection of books, manuals, studies and other materials of practical use to those working on civic engagement and philanthropy. 
• Database of expertise on legal, programmatic, and financial aspects of institution building.