Established in 1981, Al Noor has been providing high quality of professional training to the special needs community in Dubai for over 30 years. Starting with only 8 children the Centre has since expanded to facilitate and enrich the lives of up to 300 children and young people from different nationalities who have various physical and cognitive challenges such as Down syndrome, Cerebral Palsy and Autism. The new all-purpose facility from which Al Noor now operates opened its doors in April 2007 and was generously donated by His Highness Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the U.A.E. and Ruler of Dubai and was made possible through the benefaction of HRH Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein.
Al Noor follows a holistic programme addressing all domains of development through a trans-disciplinary assessment and intervention approach, all delivered at an ISO certified standard.
In addition to teaching, the level of development is enhanced with Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech and Language Therapy, Psychological services, Sports and Music. Al Noor also prides itself on an exceptionally effective work placement unit that trains its students with a capability for open employment, integrating them into mainstream society post education.
A particular star of the Al Noor’s fundraising achievements is the Center’s very own branded retail outlet, Smiles ‘n’ Stuff which helps to raise awareness and funds for the training centre. It is the only one of its kind in the GCC where all the products are handcrafted by children and young people with special needs enrolled at Al Noor. The goal of Al Noor’s vocational training unit is to make children skilled and productive members of the community and training is offered in Wood Design Technology, Printing Technology, Fashion Technology and Bakery Unit.
Now recently Al Noor has launched an online store showing extensive collection of electronic cards designed by the students of Al Noor with contributions from local artists!
I feel so lucky to be associated with such a beautiful institution.
I have been volunteering here and teaching them to draw and paint!
The kids here have always always inspired me
to be more strong,
to love unconditionally,
to celebrate each moment as it comes and to stay smiling!!
Recently I attended the launch of "Greetings by Al Noor"...another new venture!!
I am sure you would be awestruck to see their awesome collection of e-cards and you can
send greetings to your family, friends, clients and colleagues in a jiffy!!
I feel honored that two of my paintings have found a place in their absolutely stunning collection
Do pay a visit to their website called
"MAP TO MY HEART"
"ART IN MOTION"
Here is the link to the card with my painting "Map to my Heart"
and
this one for "Art in Motion"!!
Let me know your feedback!
Your words of encouragement can bring a smile to these amazing kids :)
