2008 Press Releases
Alumni Ring in the New Year with a Charity Drive (12/29/2008)
The alumni of USG-sponsored exchange programs concluded an eventful and productive year with their annual Alumni New Year Party, which they held on December 26. As is their tradition, the alumni also dedicated the event to helping the less fortunate with a charity drive for children who live in orphanages.
The program began with an awards ceremony, during which U.S. Embassy staff recognized fifteen of the most active alumni for their significant contributions to society with Certificates of Appreciation. These alumni distinguished themselves by implementing successful Democracy Outreach / Alumni Grants in spheres such as education, environmental awareness and community service, as well as supporting various educational and cultural outreach events that the U.S. Embassy organized throughout the year.
After the official ceremony, the alumni enjoyed socializing with old friends and dancing. They also brought their donations – toys, children’s clothes or monetary contributions – and left them in the donation box by the entrance.
The next day the alumni put the donated money to good use to purchase warm undergarments, fruits and sweets at a local market. On December 29, alumni then drove to an orphanage in a remote part of Tashkent region, where over one hundred children aged 3 to 12 years were eagerly waiting for the guests to arrive. First, the kids put on a holiday performance, presenting national dances and reciting holiday poems by the Christmas tree. After that, the alumni distributed the gifts, ensuring that every child received his share of new clothes, toys and candy. Making the New Year very special for the orphans was the best present the alumni could receive this holiday season!
