Our Social Responsibility 2012 1
Table of Content Our responsibility is to serve our community 5 6 20 Letter from The Chairman Education, Youth & Innovation Sports 40 Health & Environment 52 Arts & Culture 76 Economic & Diaspora Affairs 90 Social and Humanitarian Efforts 2 3
Dear friends: It gives me great pleasure to address you through this booklet, which sheds some light on Bank of Palestine s contribution towards Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in 2012. This contribution surpasses business transactions, to go beyond the provision of financial services to support initiatives, activities, events and programmes that combat poverty and draw a smile on the faces of children, invigorate the nation s economy, and contribute to achieving sustainable development. We strongly believe that true progress begins with social and economic development on a community level. This has been our belief and commitment since our founding in 1960. Therefore we have been the leaders in Corporate Social Responsibility in Palestine dedicating 5% of our net profit to CSR, a percentage that is more than double the worldwide average of 2%. In 2012 alone, BOP s CSR budget reached around USD 1.89 million, and covered several sectors including: youth and sports, education, environment, health, arts, culture, tourism, and other humanitarian work. This contribution reflects our persistence to play a major role in developing the Palestinian economy and society. We are proud to have been able to make substantial contributions towards the betterment of our society, culture, and national identity. We shall continue our commitment to work tirelessly for a better bank, a stronger community, and for an institution that strives for social and economic growth in Palestine. Sincerely, Hashim Shawa Chairman of the Board and General Manager 4 5
Education, Youth and Innovation 6 7
Zamalah Fellowship Programme Zamalah is a programme aimed at developing and raising the caliber of education in Palestinian universities through building the capacity of and increasing the exposure of university professors by sending them to academic, communications, investments and other professional institutions. This will enhance professors practical expertise, which will positively reflect on the education system and on the students ability to engage in the job market and qualify for its requirements. The bank signed agreements with four Palestinian universities in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip: Birzeit University in Ramallah, An-Najah University in Nablus, Al-Azhar University and the Islamic University in Gaza. As part of its plans to expand the programme to include more Palestinian universities and increase its potential, Bank of Palestine signed an agreement with the Welfare Association to manage the programme. HESPAL H2O Meter Trained and sponsored by Bank of Palestine, H2O Meter a student company at the Arab Evangelical Episcopal School in Ramallah, won the Best Students Company and The Best Idea for a Product awards in INJAZ-Palestine competition for the year 2012. The company also managed to win the Best Marketing Idea for a Students Company in the Arab World through its participation in INJAZ al Arab competition 2012 which was held in Al Doha-Qatar. H2O Meter, was marketed by the students as an eco-friendly and modern electronic product, which measures water levels in water reservoirs, spots leaks in the tanks, and encourages rational water consumption in homes, factories, banks and companies. 8 9
President s Education Fund Bank of Palestine donated to President Abbas s Education Fund for Palestinian students in Lebanon. The donation comes as part of BOP s continuous effort to support education at al levels wherever it may be, especially in Lebanon s Palestinian refugee camps, where students face difficult challenges. This donation was made to fill a need in the various fields of Palestinian society, believing that education and healthcare development are the two fields that need the most sustainable support and investment. BOP believes in the importance of supporting higher education for Palestinians at home and abroad and supporting young creative Palestinian minds as they represent Palestine everywhere they go. Al-Quds Open University Bank of Palestine provided financial support to a number of students at Al-Quds Open University in Gaza in order to complete their undergraduate degrees. HESPAL Bank of Palestine covers scholarships through the HESPAL programme in cooperation with the British Council. HESPAL aims to help create the next generation of senior academics who can maintain international quality standards at Palestinian universities and to develop renewed, sustainable links between Palestinian and UK universities. The Scheme will upgrade junior academic staff in Palestinian universities through a Masters Scholarship programme. Turmosaya Kindergarten Bank of Palestine contributed to furnishing theturmosaya Kindergarten, north of Ramallah. 10 11
INJAZ Palestine Bank of Palestine commits to an annual contribution to INJAZ Palestine. INJAZ is an NGO that is part of the global organization Junior Achievement Worldwide. INJAZ prepares young people for the real world by bridging the gap between the education system and the skills required for entering the job market. Over its six years of operations, INJAZ has affected 45,000 young people across eight Palestinian cities with the help of 1,000 volunteers representing 100 private sector companies. The main purpose of INJAZ is to create an empowered generation of young entrepreneurs who will become the social and economic leaders of Palestine s future. 12 13
Elham Palestine Celebration Bank of Palestine sponsored the 2012 Elham Palestine celebration that aims at improving the physical, mental, psychological and social well-being of Palestinian children, and enhancing their learning environments to become more conducive for their well-being. Americare Internships Bank of Palestine sponsored an Americare project that aims to develop technical skills for undergraduates from Birzeit University to qualify them for the labour market. 14 15
Honouring Outstanding Students Bank of Palestine sponsored celebrations to honour outstanding students in Toubas and Nablus. The bank distributed a number of saving accounts as gifts during the celebrations. The bank also sponsored similar event in Nilin,west of Ramallah. Learning Disabilities Conference Bank of Palestine sponsored the first conference on learning disabilities organized by Rawan Institution for Children Development. Recommendations on expanding the department of Special Education at the Ministry of Education were discussed. The participants also recommended creating special facilities at schools for special needs in addition to having courses at academic institutions on this issue Friends of Birzeit University Bank of Palestine financially supported Friends of Birzeit University which supports the right to education for Palestinians. Sponsoring a celebration for outstanding students in Khan Younis School Donating a photocopying machine to Ezaryeh Girls School 16 17
The First International Conference on English Language and Literature and Linguistics Bank of Palestine sponsored the activities of the First International Conference on English Language and Literature and Linguistics at the Islamic University in Gaza,with the participation of international personalities led by the famous thinker Noam Chomsky. Celebration of Innovation 2012 The Celebration of Innovation was sponsored by Bank of Palestine and organized by Partners for a new beginning. More than 70 ideas were received by the committee, 15 shortlisted, 5 won. Participants presented their ideas to an audience composed of Palestinian, Arab and international venture capitalists, investors and business leaders. Celebration of Innovation is an opportunity for entrepreneurs to have a platform to present their businesses as well as connect with funding sources that can translate their ideas into real projects. 18 19
Sports 20 21
Al Baraem Bank of Palestine initiated Al Baraem sports league which was the first of its kind in Palestine and the Arab World to discover and develop grassroots football talents, in order to create a qualified Palestinian team to represent Palestine in local and international games hoping to participate in the 2022 World Cup that will occur in Qatar. A memorandum of understanding was signed with both the Football Federation and the Ministry of Education in order to manage the initiative in the West Bank and Gaza. 22 23
West Bank Schools and Clubs were selected to participate in Al-Baraem League, activities started by a match between Hebron and Ramallah teams in Majed Asad Stadium in Al Bireh city, 10 saving accounts were dedicated to ten winners. Attendees were amazed by the performance of the teams and expected great results of the league. Gaza The league was launched in Yarmouk Stadium where all participating clubs attended.the competition continued between teams in the first and second rounds of the quarter-finals. Four matches were held in the first and second group competitions. Jabalia Services Club won the final game in Gaza against rahaf services Club by penalties (3-4). 24 25
Females Finals The final match of the female Baraem league was held in Majed Asad Stadium in Al Bireh City, the finals included the 4 directorates who were qualified as follows Ramallah and Al Bireh, Bethlehem, Jenin and Salfit. Ramallah won by 9 points, where as Bethlehem was the second with 7 points, Jenin the third with 3 points and Salfit the fourth with no points. 26 27
UNRWA Summer Games- Gaza 2012 The summer games provides a unique opportunity for the two hundred and fifty thousand children in Gaza where a safe place to play and make friends, learn and express themselves freely through art, theatre, sports, beach games and music. 28 29
2012 Olympic Games in London As part of Bank of Palestine s continuing support of Palestinian sports and in an effort to encourage representing Palestine in international events, BOP sponsored the Palestinian team in London 2012 Olympics. The Palestinian delegation included the following 5 players and two coaches: Maher Abu Remeleh Judo Wouroud Sawalha Athletics Baha Al Farra Athletics Ahmad Jibril Swimming Sabin Hazboun Swimming Coaches: Eyad Al Halabi Judo Amani Awartani Swimming 30 31
Paralympic Games Bank of Palestine sponsored the participation of the Paralympic delegation in the Paralympic games in London 2012. The Second Gaza Marathon Bank of Palestine participated in the second Gaza Marathon as the main sponsor of the event. The marathon kicked off at Beit Hanoun in the north and ended at Rafah, 42 kilometers away. More than two thousand children, in addition to over 500 Palestinian and international athletes (a total of 2,700 participants) ran the Gaza Marathon, which was organized by UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency) as a fundraiser for its annual children s summer camps, Summer Games 2012. Gaza Sports Club Bank of Palestine contributed financially to the Gaza Sports Club for supporting and improving the various activities of the club. The club is considered one of oldest clubs in Gaza with a long history of achievements, and is classified within the clubs of the Premier League. 32 33
The First Palestinian Formula 3 Female Car Racer Bank of Palestine signed a contract to sponsor Nour Dawoud, the first female Palestinian race car driver. This agreement marks a development in BOP s CSR contributions, especially because it s directed at Palestinian female athletes who are determined to achieve their dreams and to represent Palestine around the world. It is also BOP s first time to sponsor an individual athlete. Dawoud, a Jerusalemite, won several Formula 3 competitions in Palestine and abroad and is the first Palestinian female competitor in Formula 3. 34 35
Burqin Cultural and Sports Club Bank of Palestine made a donation to the Burqin Cultural and Sports Club. UNRWA Team in Norway Sponsored by BOP, the UNRWA boys football team won first place in an international championship held in Norway, in which several teams were competing from countries around the world. The Third Horse Riding Championship Organized by Turmosayya Equestrian Club, and sponsored by Bank of Palestine, the third Palestinian Championship for horse riding was launched in Turmosayaa, northeast of Ramallah. More than 70 riders from various governorates of Palestine participated in the race. The race was divided to 12 rounds, and was won by the horse Diana from Nablus. 36 37
Supporting Al Oustoura Basketball Team. Supporting the Palestinian Tennis Federation. Supporting Al Jahalin Club in Abu Deis. Supporting the Orthodox team in BeitSahour. Sponsoring the Special Olympics in Hebron. Arabian Horse Racing Festival Marj Ibn Amer fourth Arabian horse racing festival was held in Jenin with the participation of 85 horses from Palestine. Sponsoring the Courts Football championship. Supporting Al Ahli Club. Sponsoring Motorcycle Race. Supporting the Palestinian Volleyball Federation. 38 39
Health & Environment 40 41
Al Najah University s Hospital Bank of Palestine donated USD100,000 to Al Najah University- Nablus, for building the university s new hospital, in an effort to enrich the labor market with an educated and skilled generation. The hospital will be the first teaching hospital in Palestine, providing training for students who are studying at the Faculty of Medicine at Al Najah National University. Gaza in our Hearts campaign In cooperation with the Welfare Association, Bank of Palestine launched a humanitarian campaign to support children and healthcare in Gaza. As part of this campaign Bank of Palestine contributed USD 500,000 to provide main hospitals with medical supplies and medicine, kidney dialysis units, and infant incubators and ventilators. As part of this campaign, Bank of Palestine supplied Al-Shifa hospital with a shipment of needed medical supplies immediately after the last attacks on Gaza in 2012. 42 43
Al Bayyara Al Bayyara playgrounds project which was initiated and founded by Bank of Palestine, aims to design and construct hundreds of public playgrounds in different populated neighborhoods in Palestine, where there is a lack of such facilities. This initiative encouraged a number of local Palestinian institutions and even Palestinians in the Diaspora to take part in this initiative such the Welfare Association, Anera, Muna and Basem Hishmeh Foundation, UPA, and the George and Rhonada Salem Family Foundation. Al Bayyara initiative also aims to foster community bonding between families living in the same neighborhoods by meeting in these playgrounds, and create job opportunities for those who contribute in the design, construction and maintenance of these playgrounds. 44 45
The first playground was opened in Ein Munjid in Ramallah, while there are nine playgrounds in progress in Nablus, Jenin, Tulkarem, Tal Al Hawa, Jabalia Obedyye, Ras Karkar, Ezaryeh, and Abu Falah. 46 47
A Summer Camp for Children with Diabetes Organized by a group of volunteering doctors, Bank of Palestine sponsored a camp for children with diabetes in Ramallah and Al Bireh governorate. Mustaqbali My Future Programme Managed by the Welfare Association, Mustaqbali is designed to improve the lives of 1823 orphans. The 22-year-project is designed to adopt all children who were orphaned after the 2008/2009 attacks on Gaza. The programme includes providing relief aid within a framework that focuses on long term development in terms of education, health and professional development for the children and youngsters. Bank of Palestine has contributed to the health part of this programme. 48 49
Gaza: Think in Pink Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign The Gaza: Think in Pink campaign aimed at raising breast cancer awareness among women in Gaza, Palestine. The campaign called on women to get early scanning and diagnosis, which, if done on time, can lead to full recovery. In addition to several awareness events organized within the campaign, the programme made the longest pink ribbon in the world (1274 m) thus breaking the Guinness Record. The cloth ribbon was made on Gaza s beach and was enhanced with hundreds of volunteers, including Bank of Palestine s employees. The Fourth International Conference for the Palestine Medical Association Bank of Palestine contributed to the sponsorship of the Fourth International Conference for the Palestine Medical Association that was held in the city of Ramallah. The bank s sponsorship of the conference s activities is aimed at developing performance, promoting knowledge based and scientific aspects of Palestinian doctors in the fields of health, surgery and following up with the continuous developments in health, medicine and surgery. Sponsorship for IMET2000. Sponsoring a marathon in Bethlehem to support people with Diabetes and Blood Pressure. 50 51
Arts & Culture 52 53
The Palestine National Orchestra Bank of Palestine contributed to establishing the first Palestine National Orchestra organized by the Edward Said national Conservatory of Music. The members of the Palestine National Orchestra are professional musicians of Palestinian origin. They include performers at leading international orchestras and opera houses, freelance instrumentalists, top-flight studio musicians, and professors teaching at musical conservatoires across the Middle East. The orchestra had concerts in Palestine, Jordan and Indonesia. A series of festivals and cultural heritage events inspired by the Palestinian identity in a number of governorates Historically, arts and culture have been a fundamental part of the Palestinian identity. The Palestinian people have always been leading in poetry, literature, art, and music. At BOP, we believe in the utmost importance of reviving our culture, which is why we supported the following: 54 55
Zababdeh Festival The fourth Zababdeh Festival for Tourism, Culture and Arts was held in Zababdeh concluded with two performances by two local bands from Ramallah and Ableen. The performances were performed by young children and aimed to show various scenes from the Palestinian heritage. A number of Palestinian, Arab, and foreign folkloric bands were also part of the festival, in addition to poetic,musical, and theatrical performances addressing a range of national, cultural and social issues. Wadi Al Shaeer Wadi Al Shaeer (Valley of the Barley) falls between Tulkarem and Nablus, and is known for a range of social, economic, demographic and cultural characteristics. Making it a centre for interaction between the Palestinian coast, inland mountains, countryside and urban centres. The two-day festival included local artistic, musical, poetic and dance performances. Jerusalemite Summer Nights In Jerusalem, the fourth Jerusalemite Summer Nights festival, organized by the Cultural Forum Centre in Beit Anan, was attended by large crowds, including a number of distinguished national figures, leaders and academics. The festival was inaugurated with an embroidery exhibition and included a number of cultural and artistic activities. 56 57
Wein A Ramallah Festival Bank of Palestine sponsored Wein A Ramallah Fourth Festival, which included several activities for kids, folklore dance, and performances by local and international groups. Palestine International Festival Palestine International Festival is one of th emost important annual festivals held in Palestine. The activities of the festival, performed in several cities, include music, singing, dancing, dabka and folklore,with the participation of artists and folkloric dance troops from Palestine, Arab countries and the rest of the world. 58 59
Heritage Week in Birzeit Bank of Palestine sponsored the Heritage Week in the town of Birzeit which is organized by Al Rozana Association. The festival included a traditional Palestinian wedding, a concert by Tony Qattan and activities for children including clowns and storytelling by the Palestinian National Theatre. 60 61
Birzeit Nights Bank of Palestine sponsored the annual festival at Birzeit University, Birzeit Nights, with the participation of Palestinian signer Reem Talhami and the Smoud Dance Troupe. 62 63
Al Roaa Nights BOP sponsored the pastoralists Nights Festival (Al Roaa) in Beit Sahour; a cultural festival meant to embody national identity. Qalandia International- The Largest Palestinian Demonstration of Contemporary Art Qalandia Festival, which was organized by 7 Palestinian cultural institutions, is considered to be the largest event of Contemporary Art, attended by more than fifty Palestinian and international artists. The festival included a series of performances and exhibitions, art and video works in addition to numerous seminars and debates. Apricot Festival in Jifna, Ayyam Jifnawiyeh Bank of Palestine sponsored the Apricot Festival Ayyam Jifnawiyeh that was held in the village of Jifna. Activities included theatre performances showing the lives of Palestinians in villages and exhibition for homemade food in addition to marketing apricot fruit for which the village is famous. 64 65
Al Najah University Cultural Evenings Bank of Palestine sponsored Al Najah University cultural evenings where a number of Palestinian and Arab artists evenings raised funds forthe University Hospital. Participating artists were: Haitham Shomali, Nagham Hadoudy, Murad Suweti, Maggie Yousef and Dalal Abu Safe. Yabous Jerusalem Festival Bank of Palestine sponsored the Yabous Jerusalem which was held in Dar Tifel School near the Orient House with the participation of local and international artists, and different performances including music, literature, theatre and art. 66 67
First Romman (Pomegranate) Festival The festival was sponsored by Bank of Palestine and organized the Caritas, and Ein Arik Club. The festival started by activities for children including clowns and face painting with the participation of many of the popular and cultural heritage groups. The festival celebrated the harvest season in Ein Arik, which is famous for its 10,000 pomegranate trees. Grape Festival Bank of Palestine sponsored the Grape Festival, which was held in Hebron which is famous for annually producing high quality grapes. Art Exhibition Bank of Palestine sponsored the exhibition of Palestinian artist Abdel Hadi Yaishwhich was held in the Ramallah Cultural Palace. Al Bireh Festival Bank of Palestine sponsored Al Bireh Second Festival which was organized by Al Bireh Youth Institution, Al BirehMunicipality and Sons of ABireh Institution. 68 69
Farah Wa Marah Bank of Palestine sponsored Farah Wa Marah (Joy and Fun) Festival which is an entertaining festival for children in Tubas. Samaritan Gallery Bank of Palestine sponsored the Samaritan gallery which was held at Al Najah University in Nablus. 70 71
Christmas Celebrations In line with its vision to promote and develop tourism in Palestine, Bank of Palestine participated and sponsored several cultural, recreational and religious Christmas events in Bethlehem and Beit Jala. 72 73
Shrine Inspiration/ Makam Al Ilham Gallery Bank of Palestine sponsored Shrine Inspiration/ Makam AlIlham gallery within the Beyond Aesthetics programme which was organized by the Ethnographic and Art Museum at Birzeit University. The gallery continues for its second year, it is based on an innovative approach. The Ethnographic and Art Museum is a pioneering art space that promotes visual arts within the Palestinian community through various exhibitions, training and education programmes. Honouring Mrs. RimaTarazi Bank of Palestine honoured Mrs. Rima Tarazi on the occasion of her eightieth birthday in a ceremony held in the Ramallah Cultural Palace in the presence of a number of officials and political figures. Mrs. Tarazi is well known for her long history in development and music and helping people in need. 74 75
Economic & Diaspora Affairs 76 77
Women s Affairs Technical Committee Bank of Palestine signed a partnership and cooperation agreement with the Women s Affairs Technical Committee, the first of its kind in Palestine between a private sector institution and WATC. Through this partnership, BOP will be sponsoring a number of activities and events carried out by WATC in order to support Palestinian women around the country. WATC consists is a coalition of seven women s organizations, three women s centres, and individual women activists. WATC seeks to eliminate all forms of discrimination against women, to develop the role of women in society, and to empower women to assume decision-making positions. The coalition pays special attention to marginalized and less privileged women, particularly women in rural areas and refugees, as well as focusing on women leaders and young potential leaders in order to strengthen their role in the process of national struggle and social change. Palestinian Union for Industries Bank of Palestine provided the Palestinian Union for industries in Gaza with computers and printers as part of BOP s role to support the industries sector in Palestine. Palestinian Economists Association Bank of Palestine provided financial support for the Palestinian Economists Association, which aims to encourage scientific research in the field of economics, and work on the development and stimulation of the growth of the national economy. to the association also works towards promoting cooperation and exchange of experiences between researchers and economists. The Palestinian Economists Association was founded by a group of industry leaders, administrators and Palestinian economists. 78 79
French - Palestinian Decentralized Cooperation Conference Bank of Palestine sponsored the Third French Palestinian Decentralized Cooperation Conference which was held in Al Najah University under the title France - Palestine partnership and solidarity with the attendance of 400 Palestinian and international figures. The conference was organized in cooperation with the Palestinian Federation of Municipalities and the Union of French cities and other partners. The Conference of the Palestinian Centre for Policy and Survey Research Bank of Palestine sponsored the conference held by the Palestinian Centre for Policy and Survey Research which was held in Jericho. The conference discussed a number of vital issues related to the Palestinian national issue and ways to overcome the political and economic difficulties that Palestinians face. Jerusalem Business Forum Bank of Palestine sponosred the Jerusalem Business Forum.The aim of the conference to post sons holy city experiences and opinions in the field of investment, and to discuss strategies and exit plans future work on the development and sustainability of the economy of Jerusalem because of its impact utilitarian political and economic, and increasing employment opportunities for the people of the city, and revive the economic situation in which, working on Anataha of isolation and blockade, and especially in light of the potential and the resources available enjoyed by the city, which herald the future of a promising investment. 80 81
Know Thy Heritage As part of its efforts to spread Arab and Palestinian culture outside the boundaries of Palestine, and create a framework for communication with Palestinians living abroad, Bank of Palestine sponsored Know Thy Heritage a programme that promotes the standing of the Palestinian youth living abroad. The project highlights the importance of Palestine, being the Holy Land of the three religions and considered as the land of peace. 82 83
Press Club Bank of Palestine provided financial support to the Press Club in Jerusalem in a way to support Palestinian press and institutions and associations in Jerusalem. La Launchpad HCEF s Annual Conference Bank of Palestine sponsored the second conference organized by the Holy Land Christian Ecumenical Foundation which was held in Washington. Palestinian Businessmen and the Diaspora attended. Bank of Palestine sponsored the La Launchpad event in Ramallah, which seeked to promote the role of youth in innovation and was attended by a number of experts and specialists in the field. Malcom Bank of Palestine sponsored the third business and finance conference Malcom was which was held in Nazareth in the presence of a number of businessmen, leaders, boards of directors and executives of a number of companies. The conference is the biggest economic event in the Arab community. Donation Day at the American School Organized by the American School in Gaza, a voluntary day was organized in California to collect donations for charitable projects in the Gaza Strip. Ramallah s 54 Convention Bank of Palestine sponsored the events of the Ramallah s 54 convention which was held in Florida in the presence of around 2,000 Palestinians living in America. The bank aimed through the sponsorship to build relations with Palestinians living in the Diaspora and to introduce them to economic environment in Palestine and to encourage them to invest in their homeland. 84 85
Investment and Development Conference Bank of Palestine sponsored the Investment and Development Conference, in the presence of a number of Palestinian leaders, Arab and foreign investors, and with the participation of businessmen from Palestine and Arab Countries. Studio for PalestineTV Bank of Palestine made a financial contribution to the Palestine Public Broadcasting Corporation to prepare an office and studio in Salfit. The First Palestinian Real Estate Development Conference and Exhibition Bank of Palestine sponsored the first Palestinian Real Estate Development Conference and exhibition, held in Ramallah. The conference, with the slogan, A nation we don t build is a nation we don t deserve, is the first of its kind in Palestine. The conference was attended by Palestinian ministers, real estate developers, private sector representatives, in addition to several ambassadors and diplomats. The exhibition, which is one of the biggest real estate exhibitions in Palestine, was a meeting place for hundreds of architects and engineers of different specializations to discover new opportunities and to exchange knowledge and skills. 86 87
The Palestinian Family Business Conference Bank of Palestine sponsored the Palestinian Family Business Conference in Nablus, organized by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry- Nablus. The conference, under the Family Business Concerns title, focused on two main topics: the reality of and challenges faced by family businesses, and the options available for family businesses. Among the speakers were officials, businessmen, and family business owners from the West bank, Gaza, 1948 lands and the Diaspora. The participants in the conference included private sector companies and representatives, family business owners, heads of commerce chambers, government officials, academics, lawyers and auditing firms. Sponsoring this conference is part of the bank s vision to develop the Palestinian economy, given that family businesses are an important part of the economy. About 98% of private sector institutions in Palestine are family businesses, employing 45% of Palestine s private sector employees. International Seminar on Historical Cities of the Mediterranean Bank of Palestine sponsored the International Seminar on Historical Cities of the Mediterranean Which was organized by Jericho municipality, Association of Palestinian Local Authorities, Permanent Conference of the Mediterranean Historical Cities, Studies and Programme Institute and, Rome University in cooperation with the Research Unit, the Conference was under the following title the origin, and real development for the Mediterranean cities A Promotional Conference for Investments in Palestine The annual conference organized by the bank and the International Chamber of Commerce was held in Qatar with more than 400 attendees including businessmen, figures from the banking sector, Chairmen and CEOs of the largest companies in Palestine and the Arab World in addition to a number of Palestinians in the Diaspora. During the annual conference, a smaller conference sponsored by BOP was held which was a promotional conference for investment in Palestine. Invest in Palestine conference aims to change the stereotype about the investment environment in Palestine and to encourage starting new investments in Public Shareholding Companies and future projects in Palestine. Conference in Bethlehem College of the Bible entitled Christ at the Checkpoint Sponsorship for the Palestinian Development Centre Sponsoring a fundraising event in Chile Financial support to the Association of Retired Palestinians in Gaza Workshop for the regulation of electrical transformers in Tubas Governorate Sponsoring an agricultural exhibition in Hebron 88 89
Social & Humanitarian Affairs 90 91
Mother s Day Celebrations Bank of Palestine sponsored the Mother s Day celebrations organized by the Turathuna organization for women in Beit Jala. The organization works on caring for elderly and women with special needs. Reconstruction of destroyed houses in Gaza Bank of Palestine rehabilitated and reconstructed 40 houses that were destroyed during the 2009 war on Gaza, a project that was implemented by CHF. BOP employees organized voluntary working day to assist in the rehabilitation of the houses. More than 500 people benefited from this project. 92 93
Al Nour Centre Bank of Palestine sponsored the 50th anniversary (Golden Jubilee) of the Al Nour Centre for the Blind. Al Joud Mn Al Mawjoud Supporting Al Joud Mn Al Mawjoud (generosity from what we have) campaign, organized by Give Palestine Organization, in cooperation with Bravo Supermarkets in order to support families in need. The campaign was based on personal donations. World Elderly Day The Student Union at Al Quds University organized a medical day care on the World Elderly Day. The event occurred at the Women s Union Association. On the same occasion the Cultural Social Institution organized an honouring celebration for the elderly. Tubas Charitable Society Bank of Palestine contributed financially to support the activities of the Tubas Charitable Society. The aim of the society is to improve children s knowledge and standards of education in the Tubas governorate, to provide legal and social services to abused women and children, to contribute to the economic empowerment and development of women s small projects, to raise cultural, social and educational awareness for women and to build the organization s capacity in order to secure sustainability. Society of Inash El-Usra Bank of Palestine contributed to buying a bus for the Society of Inash Usra, a non-governmental voluntary Palestinian organization. The Society offers social, cultural and economic services to empower Palestinian women and other marginalized sectors of the community, thus contributing to the development of the Palestinian society as a whole. 94 95
Jaba Charitable Society Bank of Palestine contributed to the Jaba Charitable Society, in the Jaba village south of Jenin. The Society aims to establish a kindergarden, sewing course for women, and other development programmes. Ramadan Iftars for Orphans Bank of Palestine organized several Ramadan Iftars with orphaned children in several Palestinian cities in Gaza and the West Bank, including Nablus, Ramallah, Bethlehem, More than 700 orphans were invited to these Iftars, which also included several entertainment shows and gifts for the children. BOP s employees participated in preparing the events and joined the children for Iftar as part of their volunteer work and community engagement, which is highly encouraged at the Bank of Palestine. 96 97
Donations to a number of philanthropy activities Supporting the Palestine s Deserves Association Supporting the Retirement Association in Gaza Gifts were distributed for pilgrim s leaving Gaza to Mecca. Sponsoring the day of Special Needs in Jenin 98 99