Takatof Volunteers gear up for Abu Dhabi Prix

The Takatof Programme for Social Volunteering, an initiative of the Emirates Foundation for Philanthropy, today announced the completion of its preparations for the 2011 Formula1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The event will be held at the Yas Marina Circuit from November 11-13, and is expected to receive visitors from all over the world. Takatof is responsible for volunteer operations for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The completion of the programme reaffirms the preparedness of the volunteers in supporting the successful hosting of the international sports event. Volunteer preparedness for the event has been ensured through an intensive pilot training programme that stimulates the nature of the race and provides a practical walkthrough of the procedures and schedule of activities. The purpose of this training is to make event volunteers comfortable with the atmosphere of the event, enabling them to have a well rounded idea about the roles and tasks assigned to them, as well as introducing them to the circuits' facilities and main platforms. Hundreds of volunteers, including a large number of UAE nationals are supporting the organising process for the annual Formula 1 extravaganza in Abu Dhabi. The tasks of the volunteers are mainly related to hospitality and welcoming visitors, reflecting the warm and friendly cultural fabric of the United Arab Emirates. The volunteer conduct imparted through the programme incorporates the values of generosity, and the sense of giving back to the community that the Emirates Foundation represents. Through the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Takatof also seeks to promote the culture of volunteerism among Emiratis and enable them to serve as ambassadors of the UAE's civilisation. Commenting on the programme, Maitha Al Habsi, Director of Takatof said: "We have completed all our preparations for the 2011 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. We were able to achieve this through intensive training of our volunteers, and introducing them to the circuits' facilities and main platforms and the global events related to this global event. We have also made every effort to ensure that each volunteer is familiar with the tasks and roles assigned to them." She added: "This is Takatof's third consecutive participation in the Formula 1 event. Our participation is in line with our strategy that aims to enhance the culture of volunteerism within the UAE as well as tap into the expertise of volunteers in giving back to the Emirati community. Our ongoing success in planting the concept of voluntary work among UAE nationals is reflected in the increase in demand for voluntary work within Emiratis." Takatof offers a range of voluntary services inside and outside the Yas Marina Circuit. The services include transportation of VIPs, serving the public and providing them with information regarding transportation methods, as well as assisting journalists in the Media Centre while providing them with information about event highlights. Takatof is currently working on translating the vision of H. H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, promoting the culture of volunteerism, and the use of national resources in finding innovative solutions that meet the needs of the UAE society. The Takatof program provides the Emirati youth with the opportunity to volunteer in a wide range of humanitarian and social activities.