First Annual Fundraiser for the University of Hargeisa School of Social Work

In an effort to continue to support the University of Hargeisa's new Social Work program, the group hosted their first annual fundraising dinner on November 23rd at the Sandy Hill Community Centre. On hand were alumni, students and faculty from Carleton University's School of Social Work, members of the Ontario Association of Social Workers, staff from other social service organizations, and members of the Somali-Canadian community.

With over 100 people in attendance, the evening started off with a short talk about the history of the project by Omar Ugas, co-founder of the Friends of University of Hargeisa School of Social Work committee and a mental health case manager at the Pinecrest-Queensway Community Health Centre. Later, Allan Moscovitch, a professor of Social Work at Carleton University, spoke about the importance of  building strong institutions like the School of Social Work  in post-conflict societies.

The event provided not only a chance to raise funds; it also provided an inspirational space for the evening's participants. Marian Nalaye, a grade 11 student looking to become a social worker herself, shared her impressions, “As a future social worker I am inspired by the vision, dedication and hard work of the committee that put this event together tonight. I am equally inspired by Carleton University's School of Social Work's commitment to building a better community both locally and internationally.”

To donate to the cause and to learn more about the Friends of the University of Hargeisa School of Social Work committee and its projects, visit: http://futurefunder.carleton.ca/projects/university-of-hargeisa-school-of-social-work/