The magicians behind UNRWA USA
The Gaza 5K is UNRWA USA’s signature event, and since 2012 it's been instrumental in generating critical mental health support for Palestine refugees in the Gaza Strip.
But really, YOU are the magic behind our mission.
Without UNRWA USA’s supporters, we wouldn't be able to fulfill our mission of lifting up the voices, experiences, and humanity of Palestine refugees.
Rana Abu-Sbaih is a long-time friend and supporter of our work. She has dedicated immeasurable time, effort, and energy to make our NYC Gaza 5K events a success.
In honor of our upcoming NYC Gaza 5K happening in Brooklyn on Saturday, March 5, 2022, we briefly chatted with Rana about her contributions over the years, what inspires her volunteerism, and why she chooses UNRWA USA to express her solidarity with Palestine refugees.
Rana and her father at the 2019 NYC Gaza 5K
Rana, you are a beloved, longtime supporter of our work, why do you choose to support Palestine refugees through UNRWA USA?
UNRWA USA is an organization that I feel I can fully trust and know that the donations I am asking friends and family to make are going directly to Palestine refugees.My parents went to UNRWA schools in Jericho and my father went to medical school on a UNRWA scholarship. We owe UNRWA a lot for the support that was provided to my family and this is my way of giving back.
What do the NYC Gaza 5Ks mean to you?
Our family participated in the first Gaza 5K in New York many years ago and it has become one of our favorite annual events! The Gaza 5Ks are an opportunity to feel connected to our vibrant community, have fun, and make a positive impact. It is also a way to see who is allied with the Palestinian people. It means the world to me that some people who have no obvious tie to Palestine come out year after year in support.
“The Gaza 5Ks are an opportunity to feel connected to our vibrant community, have fun, and make a positive impact.”
Why do you think Americans care about mental healthcare in Gaza?
Plainly, I think it's apparent to the larger human community that there is a deep level of struggle in Gaza and that may inspire some to lend their support, but I truly believe it is the proud resilience of the people of Gaza (half of whom are refugees) that inspires all of us and draws us to them.
Rana with UNRWA USA’s NYC volunteer team
You have been UNRWA USA’s volunteer coordinator for many years and are very involved in your local Brooklyn community. What inspires your volunteer work?
I believe with my whole heart that there is more than one way to be paid in life and not everything is rewarded monetarily. Selfishly, it makes me feel good to be productive and to make others feel welcomed and appreciated and seen for their generosity and effort. I was raised on my father’s simple instruction to ‘Be Good and Do Good’. He is my inspiration and greatest supporter in the work I do with the community, but specifically anything that benefits Palestine.
We are tremendously grateful and appreciative of Rana’s dedicated efforts in galvanizing support from her Brooklyn community and beyond!
We invite you to become part of our family of supporters by joining us at our upcoming Gaza 5K happening in Brooklyn, New York on Saturday, March 5, 2022. Advanced registration is required and funds raised will provide counseling to help Palestine refugee children across Gaza overcome trauma and other mental health challenges.
Yalla (hurry up) – get a $10 discount on your tickets when you use the code EARLYBIRD (expires February 28) at checkout.
Remember, when you register for UNRWA USA’s Gaza 5K, you are taking a life-changing action that enhances the mental health and wellbeing of Palestine refugees in Gaza.