Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) institutionalises volunteering among its employees in accordance with the highest international standards, to maintain its position as one of the biggest supporters of the integrated and sustainable volunteering ecosystem in the UAE and Dubai.
DEWA encourages its employees to have a positive effect on society through a clear framework for integrated organisational work to serve society and enhance its happiness. Between 2013 and 2023, DEWA launched 438 social initiatives, through which its employees recorded 232,973 volunteer hours in humanitarian and community initiatives, benefitting many countries around the world. In 2023, society's happiness about DEWA reached 93.55 percent.
Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD and CEO of DEWA, highlighted the organization's commitment to social responsibility and sustainable impact by supporting society through volunteering and promoting noble human values. Al Tayer emphasized the alignment of DEWA's integrated volunteering strategy with the vision and directives of the wise leadership, acknowledging the dedication of employees who actively participate in various social and humanitarian initiatives, reflecting the culture of goodness and giving ingrained in Emirati society.
Integrated Organisational Framework to Enhance Social Development
DEWA, in its commitment to foster a volunteering culture among employees, offers iVolunteer programs allowing staff to engage in initiatives, activities, and document their volunteering hours for point redemption and prizes, aligning with Dubai Government Excellence requirements. Additionally, DEWA's Volunteer Diploma aims to enhance participants' volunteer skills, preparing them to manage local and global volunteering programs and become trainers in the Volunteer Leadership Programme. These initiatives reflect DEWA's dedication to promoting volunteerism and community engagement among its workforce.
Dewa’s CSR Milestones in 2023 Include:
- Meer Al Khair Initiative 2023: DEWA initiated the "Meer Al Khair" community project in collaboration with Al Ihsan Charity Association, Ajman, collecting 380 boxes of in-kind goods and food items through employee contributions to support needy families with limited income during Ramadan, showcasing a commendable example of giving, volunteering, and community cohesion.
- Ramadan Aman Campaign 2023: In collaboration with Al Ihsan Charity Association and the traffic and police departments, DEWA participated in the "Ramadan Aman" campaign during the Holy Month of Ramadan, distributing 200,000 Iftar meals to drivers at roads and intersections to promote safety and unity with the theme "Together during Ramadan without accidents."
- COP28: DEWA employees actively contributed to the success of COP28 at Expo City Dubai by joining the volunteering team, where they welcomed guests, addressed inquiries, and offered general directions and information in support of various local and international events in the UAE and Dubai.
- Determined Hands Initiative: DEWA took part in an initiative organized by Dubai Customs for employees of determination (EODs) in Dubai government organizations, where DEWA's employees of determination distributed Iftar meals to road users and drivers at traffic signals in Rashid Port.
- Sports Treatment Hall at the Senses Residential and Day Care: DEWA sponsored a sports treatment hall at the Senses Residential and Day Care for Special Needs in Dubai, equipping it with the necessary devices and equipment for motor, functional, and mental rehabilitation of children of determination. Over 30 DEWA volunteers participated in preparing the hall to cater to the diverse needs of people with disabilities.
- Clothes for Good Initiative: DEWA participated in the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)’s “Clothes for Good” initiative. It donated 200 uniforms pre-used by its employees to turn them into wearable attire for needy segments in less advanced countries.
- Donate Your Own Device Campaign: DEWA actively participated in the "DYOD: Donate Your Own Device" campaign, launched by the Digital School in collaboration with the Emirates Red Crescent, aiming to collect 10,000 used electronic devices for refurbishment and recycling to empower students, particularly those facing difficulties accessing education. DEWA's employees contributed over 100 devices by mid-September 2023, supporting underprivileged students of the Digital School globally.
- The School Bag Initiative: As they do every year, DEWA employees volunteered to buy school bags, stationary, and tablets/iPads for students with limited income, orphans, and students of determination, in collaboration with several public welfare associations.
News Source: Emirates News Agency