BURLINGTON, Canada — Rima Fakih is an inspiring individual who focuses on philanthropic work. Born in Lebanon, she moved to the United States as a child and made history by becoming the first Muslim and Arab American to win the Miss USA pageant in 2010. However, for Rima Fakih, philanthropy became her primary focus.
Supporting Families in Lebanon
Lebanon has been facing an economic crisis for several years, leading to high unemployment rates and inflation. Many Lebanese people had to leave the country in search of better opportunities.
Rima Fakih’s philanthropic work is exemplified in her role as an ambassador for the Children’s Cancer Center of Lebanon (CCCL), providing support to families whose children are suffering from cancer during these difficult times. Fakih has been working as the ambassador for the CCCL since 2020.
She has also organized and participated in several charity events to raise funds for CCCL, including the annual red carpet gala dinner at the Dubai Opera on November 5, 2022. The event was attended by both Arab and international celebrities. As CCCL’s Ambassador, Fakih was present to support the organization’s cause.
Providing Aid for Lebanon in Times of Crisis
In addition to her work with CCCL, Fakih has been involved in providing aid to Lebanon during its time of crisis. In 2020, a devastating explosion rocked Beirut, leaving many people injured or homeless.
Fakih and her husband Sal launched the “Global Aid for Lebanon” campaign to provide support to those affected by the tragedy. Sal and Rima Slaiby generously donated $250,000 to kick off the campaign, intending to provide support to the Lebanese Red Cross, United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), and the CCCL.
XO Records and Global Citizen supported the campaign and the funds raised helped provide food, shelter and medical supplies to those in need.
Supporting Marginalized Communities in the United States
Fakih’s philanthropic work extends beyond her home country of Lebanon. She has also been involved in supporting minorities in the United States, where she now resides.
One of the organizations she has worked with is Best Buddies International, which aims to promote inclusion and provide opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Fakih helped organize the 5th Annual Best Buddies Mother’s Day Brunch, which raised $450,000 for the organization.
The City of Los Angeles recognized Fakih’s involvement in School on Wheels at the reopening of the Skid Row Learning Center. In her role as the ambassador for School on Wheels, Fakih has demonstrated her commitment to supporting marginalized communities in the United States by working with the organization to provide educational resources and support for homeless children. School on Wheels has aided over 50,000 students throughout its nearly 30-year history.
Recognition and Advocacy
Fakih’s passion for helping others drives her philanthropic work. Her efforts have made a significant impact on the lives of many people, both in her home country of Lebanon and in the United States. She is committs to using her platform to raise awareness about social issues and make a positive difference in the world. Her work with CCCL, Global Aid for Lebanon, Best Buddies International and School on Wheels has shown that she dedicates herself to supporting marginalized communities and improving their lives.
– Tanya Hamad
Photo: Flickr