Awana” Initiative and the National Festival Honouring Palestinian Volunteers

The “Awana” Initiative revives the deeply rooted Palestinian traditions of volunteerism, mutual support, and social solidarity. It reclaims the concept of awana—communal assistance—which has long embodied cooperation and collective action in farming, construction, harvesting, celebrations, and everyday life.

The initiative brings young people together with local communities and elders through volunteer activities that include restoring heritage sites, maintaining land and trails, assisting farmers, serving communities, and reviving seasonal and social traditions.

It also organises the National Festival Honouring Palestinian Volunteers, a national platform that celebrates volunteers, youth groups, initiatives, and institutions whose contributions have made a meaningful difference to their communities and strengthened Palestinian resilience.

The festival shares inspiring volunteer stories from across Palestine and honours distinguished initiatives, thereby promoting a culture of recognition, encouraging youth participation, and reinforcing belonging, social responsibility, and solidarity.