Alawwal bank has donated SR500,000 ($133,310) to the Al-Eradah Society for Talented Special Needs Individuals. The donation was made as part of the bank’s program of giving back to the communities it serves. Alawwal bank’s donation is expected to help the charity achieve a number of its goals. As well as providing job opportunities for those living with special needs, the funds will also help increase awareness of special needs and encourage inclusiveness by expanding the society’s branches across the Kingdom. Dr. Ammar Bogis, founder and chairman, Al-Eradah Society, said: “Everyone should have the opportunity to follow their dreams, whatever their ability. We just need to do more to give disabled people hope and positive encouragement to achieve their goals. Having Alawwal bank recognize and support our efforts has been essential to extending our support across the Kingdom.” Alawwal bank has previously provided financial support to help the charity for a range of activities, including the supply of medical equipment, treatment and prosthetics, in addition to supporting projects providing rehabilitation and training services to special needs individuals. Soren Nikolajsen, managing director of Alawwal bank, said: “We’re delighted to help a cause that empowers people of all abilities to follow their dreams. Dr. Ammar Bogis and the Al-Eradah Society should be an inspiration to us all. We are very proud to help them continue bringing life-changing opportunities to so many Kingdom-wide.” The Al-Eradah Society for Talented Special Needs Individuals was started in 2014 by Dr. Bogis and founded as an association under the guidance of King Salman in 2016, with the aim of fueling the creativity of talented special needs individuals in the Kingdom. Dr. Bogis suffered from a rare disease that caused him to be born paralyzed and only have control over the movement of his eyes and tongue. Despite this, Dr. Bogis became a journalist, writer and lecturer on determination and awareness of special needs.