A Child's Cry Knows No Border

"This evening was created to bring together like-minded people, dedicated to improving the lives of those vulnerable children impacted by conflict and poverty in the Middle East," Lena Alfi, director of partnerships, Middle East Children's Institute (MECI) said. "By partnering with the Azar Foundation, we hope by our combined efforts we can help the children obtain a needed education so that one day they may become future leaders of peace."

Ambassador Szemerkényi also shared her special welcome to the guests, gathered in the embassy's grand ballroom. "Having the fundraiser at the embassy is my way of expressing my strong support for what is being done in the Middle East by MECI and the Azar Foundation for the Children of the World, especially those traumatized by war. This evening, which has taken many months of planning, is only the beginning of what I hope will become a series of fundraisers for us."

In summing up her commitment to the children of the world, Shahin Mafi, founder/trustee of the Azar Foundation for Children of the World, said "our foundation was founded 2003 with the belief that if we work together, we can make a difference in the lives of some of today's most vulnerable children, those trapped by the war and poverty. Their cry for help, which can be heard around the world, knows no borders," she added poignantly. "It is the universal cry of children suffering. Lena and I believe together we can make a difference for some of them by giving them the opportunity to attend school and receive the fundamental education they need to repair their lives."

The gala fundraiser was a festive evening of food, wine, and song. To raise money for the children, auction items included a safari to Botswana and round- trip to Istanbul. Syrian Opera Singer Lubana Al Quntar and Egyptian Performer and Composer Ramy Adly presented a small selection of Middle Eastern song and music to highlight the evening!

SOURCE Azar Foundation for Children of the World