AAIF Honors UNHCR, Unite Lebanon Youth Project, Jamie Farr

WASHINGTON, April 14, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Arab American Institute Foundation will present the 2016 Kahlil Gibran "Spirit of Humanity" Awards on April 19.

Award for International Commitment
UNHCR is the world's leader in responding to humanitarian devastation resulting from conflict.

"As we respond to the most significant global challenge we've faced since World War II, it's critically important to keep the voices of the millions who've been displaced, at the forefront. What they expect, and what they deserve is safety, dignity and a future." - Kelly T. Clements, Deputy High Commissioner for Refugees

Alek Wek, supermodel, UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador and former refugee, will present UNHCR's award.

"My story is proof that refugees are all around us. What they want, is what anyone wants, health; education; jobs and a future. When so many millions are struggling for survival, the work of UNHCR has never been more important and more rightly recognized." – Wek

Award for Institutional Excellence
United Lebanon Youth Project has reached thousands of youth with quality programs for low income children including Palestinian and Syrian refugees.

"Gibran's message of inclusion and triumph is one that ULYP fully embraces. Indeed, in these challenging times for Lebanon and our region, education is the key for inclusion and truly the only viable way forward." - Melek El Nimr, ULYP Founder

Special Recognition
Jamie Farr is a distinguished Arab American actor and philanthropist most remembered for his portrayal of MASH's Corporal Klinger.

"Comedy, when done well, not only makes us smile, it brings us comfort, breaks down stereotypes and joins us. I just hope I made you laugh, left you lighter and maybe taught you something in the process." - Jamie Farr

Syrian violinist Mariela Shaker fled Aleppo in 2013 and will perform.

"Anytime I can share my love of music while promoting a better understanding of who refugees are and what they can contribute, I will step forward." - Shaker

The Kahlil Gibran "Spirit of Humanity" Awards are named for the author of The Prophet and recognize those who promote inclusion. A not-for-profit affiliate of the Arab American Institute, the Foundation recognizes and celebrates Arab American participation in civic life.

WHAT: 18th Kahlil Gibran "Spirit of Humanity" Awards
WHEN: Tuesday, April 19, Reception 5:30PM/Dinner 6:30PM
WHERE: Omni Shoreham, 2500 Calvert St, NW 

SOURCE Arab American Institute Foundation