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Hani Almadhoun

Director of Philanthropy at UNRWA USA

Hani Almadhoun is the Senior Director of Philanthropy at UNRWA USA, a U.S.-based charity dedicated to supporting the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) in its mission to aid Palestine refugees.16 He has held this position since November 2019.6

Almadhoun is a Palestinian-American who grew up in the Gaza Strip.12 He received a scholarship to attend Brigham Young University, where he earned a master's degree in Public Administration and a bachelor's degree in International Studies and Latin American Studies.16

With over a decade of experience in fundraising, Almadhoun has been instrumental in UNRWA USA's efforts to raise funds for Palestine refugees.34 His work has taken on personal significance, as he advocates for the safety of his family and the well-being of people in Gaza.12

In addition to his professional role, Almadhoun co-founded the Gaza Soup Kitchen, a grassroots initiative providing meals and direct assistance to families in Gaza, including his own.1 He has been actively involved in high-level meetings at the White House, Congress, and the State Department, advocating for humanitarian relief and protection for Palestine refugees.1

Tragically, in November 2023, Almadhoun lost his brother, sister-in-law, and their children in Gaza due to Israeli military airstrikes.5 Despite this personal loss, he continues his work to support Palestine refugees and raise awareness about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.4

Almadhoun's expertise extends to various areas, including memberships in organizations such as the Association of Fund Raising Professionals Board, Palestinian American Medical Association, and MUPPIES (Muslim Urban Professionals).3 He is fluent in English, Arabic, and has professional working proficiency in Spanish.6

Highlights

Sep 11 · linkedin

Every morning, before the crack of dawn, my father in Gaza rises early for his morning prayer and then heads to the souk. There, he waits for the water truck to arrive. Once it does, he hops on with the driver and heads out to distribute drinking water to a different neighborhood each day, rotating areas to ensure more people receive the water they desperately need.

He’s been doing this for the last five months, never missing a day—whether he’s feeling good, bad, or just okay. At 70-something years old, his dedication never wavers. He continues this daily ritual not just because he can, but because he cares deeply.

Despite the immense pain, loss, and heartbreak he's witnessed, this retired UNRWA teacher finds the strength to serve, even amid the madness and injustice that surround him. Please keep him in your thoughts for his safety, and for the safety of our family. Thank you.

Aug 29 · linkedin

Skin diseases and infections are preying on Palestinian children living in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions due to evacuation orders, bombardment, and a lack of safety—not to mention an anemic and overwhelmed medical care system. Our crew organized a health day in Deir El Balah, joined by a physician who examined the children and prescribed ointments or antibiotics. We ensured that these medications were on-site, making it a busy and productive day. We continue to hold these health days once a week in Deir El Balah to assist our neighbors in any way we can. Remember, Israel is responsible for all of this—this is not an act of nature.

Related Questions

What inspired Hani Almadhoun to become a fundraiser for UNRWA USA?
How has Hani Almadhoun's personal connection to Gaza influenced his work at UNRWA USA?
What are some of the challenges Hani Almadhoun faces in his role at UNRWA USA?
How did Hani Almadhoun's family in Gaza impact his fundraising efforts?
What initiatives has Hani Almadhoun implemented to support Palestinian refugees?
Hani Almadhoun
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Location

Washington, District of Columbia, United States