Centers & Institutes / Institute for Peace and Justice Education/
Lebanon’s greatest asset has always been its human resources. There are many Lebanese citizens, young and old alike, who are working quietly outside the spotlight to sustain, rebuild and heal their country. It is important that this human potential be recognized.
These quiet heroes—relief workers, teachers, doctors, nurses, firefighters, and many others—can provide civic role models for Lebanon’s youth and inspire them to become active participants in the development of their homeland. Identifying these individuals and bringing their work to the attention of the public will demonstrate youth the importance of community engagement through real-life, everyday examples drawn from those who live and work among them.
To this effect, the Institute for Peace and Justice Education is launching the Unsung Heroes Award. The award of USD 6000 will be presented to an organization of the hero’s choice at a Recognition Dinner.
Nominees for the award must be Lebanese citizens, who through their work in the community demonstrate the values of volunteerism, collaboration and civic responsibility. Nominees must have demonstrated selfless commitment to building their society and creating hope for the Lebanese people.
Nominations, which are due July 31, 2008, must include the full name of the individual, a description of the individual’s activities—achievements in particular—and the impact their work has had on the Lebanese society or a particular segment of the society. (The description should not exceed 500 words.) Nominations should be endorsed by at least three individuals who know the nominee’s work well, but who are not all members of the same organization in which the nominee works.
A selection committee composed of LAU faculty, staff, alumni, and students will screen and fact-check the nominees and select the award recipient. The recipient will be notified early September, and the Recognition Dinner will take place in October, 2008.