As part of its ongoing efforts to promote a culture of volunteerism across different sectors, the Ministry of Youth organized, on Sunday 6/7/2025, an introductory session on the third edition of the Hussein bin Abdullah II Award for Voluntary Work. The session was attended by Minister of Youth Eng. Yazan Al-Shdeifat, President of the Private Hospitals Association Dr. Fawzi Al-Hammouri, and board members of the award Dr. Mohammad Al-Hadid and Dr. Raeda Qutub, along with a wide participation from representatives of Jordan’s private hospitals.
Al-Shdeifat emphasized that the award represents a forward-looking national vision, stemming from the deep-rooted belief of the Hashemite leadership—led by His Majesty King Abdullah II and with direct support from His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II of the importance of empowering Jordanian youth and encouraging them to engage in impactful volunteer initiatives. He pointed out that the award goes beyond just honoring initiatives; it serves as a national platform that highlights stories of creativity and generosity, reflecting the highest values of belonging and responsibility.
He also noted that the Ministry of Youth is constantly working on developing the award by updating its categories, enhancing measurement tools, and ensuring maximum transparency in the judging process. He added that the inclusion of private hospitals this year marks a qualitative leap, given the vital role this sector plays in humanitarian, health, and social work. He encouraged healthcare institutions to submit their initiatives and compete across the award’s various categories.
From his side, Dr. Al-Hammouri affirmed that private hospitals in Jordan are a core component in community work, and that their institutional approach is built upon principles of sustainability and impact evaluation. He mentioned several major initiatives adopted by the hospitals, such as hosting children from Gaza as part of the Royal Initiative to treat 2,000 children, offering them and their families free medical care and accommodation. He also noted their efforts in health awareness campaigns, supporting underprivileged families through free surgeries, organizing medical days, and holding educational activities across different governorates. Dr. Al-Hammouri stressed the Association’s commitment to supporting the goals of the award in achieving sustainable development and empowering the less fortunate segments of society.
Dr. Al-Hadid, in turn, stated that social responsibility at the Jordan Red Crescent is considered both a moral and professional obligation. It’s not just about providing services but also includes raising awareness, spreading knowledge, and building trust between the community and the healthcare sector. He emphasized the importance of education on issues like anti-smoking campaigns and training people on first aid, highlighting that health institutions are a key partner in empowering communities, not merely service providers.
Dr. Qutub added that volunteerism is already present in our daily lives, and many people engage in voluntary efforts without even realizing it. She pointed out that hospitals can play an even bigger role by organizing free medical days and strengthening partnerships with local communities. She also recalled the heroic role played by healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic as a remarkable example of commitment and responsibility.
The session concluded with an interactive presentation by Ms. Samar Al-Dawood, who showcased the philosophy, goals, and fields of the award, as well as its application requirements. She also explained the evaluation mechanism and the four main categories: individual, group, for profit institutional, and non-profit institutional voluntary work. She encouraged attendees to register via the award’s online platform and seize this national opportunity that celebrates the culture of giving and honors those who make a meaningful impact in serving the country.
