In Lebanon, there are more than 150,000 people with a physical handicap (app. 4% of Lebanon’s population) and most of them suffer from negligence, isolation and discrimination. Due to lack of proper support system and awareness on the human rights and needs of disabled people, BBAC supported Mr. Michael Haddad, the president of "SHIELD-Walk With Us" NGO, who dedicated a walk for the inauguration of the annual National Beach Cleaning Day.

Mr. Haddad who is physically handicapped himself dedicated this 4 km walk to reassure every Lebanese that a physical handicap will not get in the way of fulfilling the duties of any conscious citizen, whilst enlightening the society on the importance of protecting and maintaining the Lebanese environment.

Hundreds of participants from officials, embassies, schools and universities met at Raouché Pigeon Rock to join hands with the goal of walking with Mr. Haddad  all the way down to Ramlet El Baida and clean the sandy shores from plastic debris, glass and other waste.  This day brought motivation to all Lebanese to invest their capabilities in preserving the nature they live in as well as reminded them of the necessity to help disabled people for they have the power to turn their disability into ability and participate as active citizens in the society despite their handicap.

"SHIELD-Walk With Us" NGO’s mission is not only limited to raising awareness on the importance of  reaching out to the disabled people and reintegrating them into the society, but it also includes rehabilitating them and turning them into able, active, and productive members of the society.