The Big Ball raises over Dhs940,000 for the benefit of underpriviledged children across the region

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The amount raised was 150% more than what was raised last year when The Big Ball fundraiser mobilized Dhs375,000 towards UNICEF's projects for underprivileged school children in Lebanon.

Last week, The Big Ball team formally presented a cheque, of Dhs565,700 to UNICEF's Adopt-A-School Programme and donated Dhs188,560 each to the Dubai Autism Center and Red Crescent Society to support their initiatives.

Lauding the initiative and extending his gratitude to the organizers for their generosity, Tarek Shayya, Chief of Fundraising and Partnerships, UNICEF Gulf Area, said:

'We are honored to be part of such a passionate project and for having the opportunity to work with such a dynamic team of creative professionals. This contribution by The Big Ball 2008 will provide much needed support to two new schools in the Baalbek region of Lebanon. We look forward to next year's collaboration.'

Meanwhile, Sara Baqer, Community Services Coordinator for Dubai Autism Center, said:
'On behalf of our honorable board and staff, I wish to express my gratitude to the team of Big Ball for all their efforts in supporting DAC's initiatives. The media has been instrumental in spreading awareness about The Big Ball which was organized in an evening of splendor. I am convinced that this collaboration will develop into a mutually beneficial long-term relationship and their contribution will definitely be witnessed through our campaigns and events.'

This year's auction included a list of exquisite items including a 5 night stay at Six senses Hideaway Zighy Bay Resort; an Elie Saab crocodile purse; Artwork by the renowned artist Wajih Nahlé; a weekend at Le Meridien's Al Aqah Beach, Fujairah; an exclusive photo of Ray Charles donated personally by the photographer Gilles Philipot and the Big Ball Celebrity Collage with handwritten notes from Celine Dion, Mahumud Yassin, Nancy Ajram, Nelly Furtado, Omar Sharif, Paulo Coelho, Rahul Bose, Sharon Stone, Sir Bob Geldof, Tony Shaloub and Wajih Nahlé.

In support of the initiative, Nancy Ajram put forward her own Giorgio Armani gown to be auctioned.

She, said:

'The Big Ball is doing a wonderful thing and I'm happy to support it. I came for my love of children and because I want to help underprivileged children find a happy place in this world. Children inspired my latest album 'Shakhbat Shakhabit and especially the song Resala lel3alam 'A Message to the World'.'

The Big Ball aims to restore the joy of childhood and gift of education to less fortunate children, the world over. The high-profile event was supported by The Consul General of Lebanon, her Excellency Madame Donna Turk and was presented by Blink Studios and supported by Platinum Corporation (Gold Sponsor); Enjaz, therightslawyers, GMMOS (Silver Sponsors); Dubai TV and 7Days (Media Sponsors); Action Impact (Event Production Sponsor); and LeoBurnett (Creative Sponsor) and BKP Studios and African & Eastern.

The Big Ball's 3rd event will take place on April 2, 2009. For sponsorship opportunities, please visit Big Ball's Website.