The 12th Annual 'Children's Benefit Concert' was organised by Family Educational Services Foundation (FESF) here at the PAF Museum on February 29. About 4,500 underprivileged and special needs children from 60 institutions and schools in Karachi were the VIP guests.
The goal of this yearly event is to provide a memorable experience for children who do not otherwise have such opportunities. It also creates an inclusive situation as children who are "differently-able" mingle with mainstream children. The host Faizan Haqquee launched the event. The three-hour concert began with the international kids' show team, HeartBeat! They had the crowd moving with their lively English and local language numbers. Then Salim Javed took the stage! No one sat still as he sang his popular numbers and energised the children.
Huma Naz mesmerised the audience with a classical Kathak performance. Faakhir and his live band closed the show, singing his famous hit songs and mixing with the crowd to sing and dance with the children. Over 100 volunteers from local schools, colleges and universities worked tirelessly alongside FESF staff to seat the children and to serve them complimentary snacks, drinks and ice-cream during the concert. Upon leaving, each child received a beautiful gift bag with a variety of items such as a souvenir booklet, stationery, food and household items.
It may be mentioned that in spite of the large numbers, the whole event was very well organised, beginning and ending on time, and with all the children being seated, served and cared for in an orderly fashion. Title sponsor, The National Bank of Pakistan, and co-sponsors, LOTTE Pakistan PTA Ltd, Medinostic, OBS, Standard Chartered Bank and many other corporate entities contributed to make the occasion a huge success.
FESF is a non-profit, educational and volunteer organisation, carrying out its services in Pakistan since 1984. Its mission is to enhance the quality of life for all members of the community, especially those who are disadvantaged. FESF runs five Deaf Reach Schools and Training Centres providing free education to deaf students in Karachi, Hyderabad, Sukkur and Lahore. In addition, they conduct capacity building workshops for teachers, parents and volunteers as well as many community projects.
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