Umm Al-Fahm Celebrates Abilities Day with Inclusive Event

Umm Al-Fahm's Community Center, operated by the municipality, hosted a special event on Abilities Day, themed 'An Impact Lived... Beauty Unites Us.' The gathering brought together individuals with disabilities, their families, professionals from rehabilitation, therapy, and educational institutions, school representatives, volunteers, and partners. The event underscored the message that community inclusion is an ongoing approach focused on providing opportunities, fostering participation, and highlighting the inherent capabilities of every individual.

The event was organized by the Community Center and the Special Needs and Community Resources team within the Umm Al-Fahm Municipality's Social Services Department, in collaboration with various rehabilitation centers, schools, and therapeutic facilities in the city. It aimed to create a unifying space where families, institutions, and the community could converge around the fundamental value that every person deserves a place, a role, a voice, and an impact that is seen, heard, and appreciated.

Attendees included Umm Al-Fahm Mayor Dr. Samir Subhi Mahamid, Municipal Council member and head of the Social Services portfolio Khaled Ali Taha, Director of Social Services Ms. Hilana Ighbariya, mothers and families from the Family Center, and representatives from rehabilitation and therapeutic organizations such as "Ma'as," "Marshal," and the 21+ Daily Therapy Center, along with schools and student volunteers.

The Community Center's role as an open community space was highlighted, providing platforms for all city segments, including those with disabilities, to actively participate in cultural, social, artistic, and recreational life. The event's message extended beyond a single day, emphasizing the need for an inclusive environment where individuals with disabilities feel they are an integral part of the broader community and their talents and experiences are recognized in public programs and activities.

The program featured artistic performances, including a choir from Al-Amal and Ein Ibrahim schools, welcome speeches, and a theatrical performance. A "Success Story" segment shared the experience of a mother and her blind son, illustrating perseverance and family support. The 21+ Daily Therapy Center's choir also performed, showcasing the talents of individuals with disabilities.

A significant part of the day was the "Take My Place" interactive stations, presented by Beit Gilgalim. These stations simulated daily challenges faced by people with disabilities, with themes like "Breathe Differently," "Subtle Touches," "Darkness," "Together We Can," "Listen," "Bridges of Communication," and "The Road Challenge." These activities aimed to build awareness and understanding, promoting a culture of respect, acceptance, and the removal of social and psychological barriers.

The event's success was attributed to the strong presence of families, mothers, students, volunteers, and various institutions, transforming the Community Center into a hub for connection and interaction. The day concluded by reinforcing the slogan's message: the true impact continues through increased awareness, built relationships, opened opportunities, and a societal shift towards greater inclusion, respect, and participation. The Community Center continues its work, aiming to make Umm Al-Fahm a city for everyone, where individuals can participate, create, and leave their mark, emphasizing that empowering people with disabilities is a shared societal responsibility.