Dubai: A slice of society that is often overlooked was out in full force Saturday, being heard, and having fun during the third annual Reaching U Family Fun Day at Jumeirah Beach Park.
Under the patronage of Princess Haya Bint Al Hussain, wife of His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, a show of support was given to families with children with special needs.
The day provided an arena for special needs and mainstream children to interact with one another and enjoy fun activities together, under the sponsorship of The First Group. Activities included playing on bouncy castles, obstacle courses, drumming, art work and puppet shows.
Nick Watson, Founder of U-concept and the Reaching U initiative said the Reaching U event was a very special event that put the focus firmly on children with special needs.
Awareness
"In Dubai alone, there are over 6,000 children with special needs, however, caring for them is not always at the forefront of people's minds, and events like Reaching U just help in bringing all of us together," said Watson.
Watson, himself a father of a special needs child, started the campaign to create more awareness and acceptance among UAE residents.
"It is my personal belief that every individual has the right to receive the necessary support needed to live as a member of the community and benefit from experience and social relationships.
"Even with an economic downturn people still feel a deep need to get involved in worthwhile causes."
