Journalist and President of the Stouh Beirut Association, Dalia Dagher, participated in a workshop titled “The Role of Non-Governmental Organizations in Community Development and Their Impact On and Within Society”, organized by the Tamouz Center for Studies and Citizenship Formation.
Dagher’s intervention, titled “The Ethical Function of Associations”, traced the stages leading up to the official establishment of Stouh Beirut in 2017, and its recognition as a public utility association in 2022. She presented the main initiatives the association has undertaken since its founding, including the creation of its sister organization in Paris, Les Toits de Beyrouth.
Dagher emphasized that one of the most important ethical functions of NGOs is building bridges of trust, transparency, and credibility between the association and donors. She explained that this is achieved by thoroughly verifying each case before adoption, ensuring internal oversight, and maintaining transparency in the distribution of donations. She highlighted the association’s commitment to sharing progress and results with donors through press conferences and follow-ups on supported cases all while upholding the dignity of those in need, a core principle of Stouh Beirut since its inception.
Dagher also reflected on how the association’s work has transformed lives, particularly following the Beirut Port explosion on August 4, when Stouh Beirut intensified its activities to support affected families.
She stressed the importance of engaging and educating youth about volunteerism, responding to questions from attending professors and students. In conclusion, Dagher invited everyone to embrace the spirit of Stouh Beirut, an association that reflects Lebanon’s diversity and embodies humanity beyond political and sectarian divides.
She affirmed: “Lebanon must remain alive in our veins, wherever we are,” encouraging young people to take part in service and humanitarian volunteer work.
Les Toits de Beyrouth
