5.13.2008 - 11:59pm ET

(CSRwire) DUBAI - May 13, 2008 - Through its charitable arm, The Dow Chemical Company Foundation, The Dow Chemical Company, a world leader in science and technology, has committed KD 200,000 to the Lothan Youth Achievement Center (LoYAC). The sponsorship reflects Dow's commitment to the Kuwait market and to the local communities in which it operates. This charitable commitment is in line with Dow's thirteen-year presence in Kuwait through EQUATE Petrochemical Company K.S.C, a joint venture company established with the petrochemical arm of the Kuwait Petroleum Corporation.

The key components of the grant will include; Dow's sole partnership of the 'F1 Schools Challenge' and various productions by 'LoYAC Academy of Performing Arts'. In addition to supporting all of LoYAC's youth developmental programs in Kuwait and abroad, Dow will also support LoYAC's Part-Time Program for work internships, Hotel Management Scholarship, The "7 Habits of Highly Effective College Students" Program, Continuous Development Program, as well as various interactive activities by LoYAC that focus on Music, Artizana (arts & crafts), Poetry, Creativity, and Sports.

"We are delighted to receive Dow's support for our 2008 and early 2009 activities. Dow's commitment to the local Kuwaiti community will allow us to further establish our programs to cater to the evolving needs of young leaders of tomorrow and more importantly play an active role in their development," said Fareah AL-Saqqaf Vice Chairperson & Managing Director, LoYAC.

Commenting on this contribution, Earl Shipp, Business Group President, Basic Chemicals, The Dow Chemical Company said, "Dow's corporate social responsibility program partners with non-profit organizations that are well-respected in their local communities. We look for leading organizations like LoYAC who contribute to the success of their communities, encourage innovation and promote sustainability.

"Dow fully supports LoYAC's aims to provide the youth of Kuwait with unique opportunities to develop their personal growth, explore their talents and potential and build their professional and interpersonal skills. The non- profit organization assists the youth of Kuwait as they evolve into highly effective young leaders.

"Through its pledge and commitment to LoYAC, Dow is proud to be able to support the future leaders of Kuwait and the Middle East. Like Dow, LoYAC endorses the principles of diversity and inclusion and embraces youth from all nationalities, religious and ethnic backgrounds," added Shipp.

About LoYAC

LoYAC is a non-profit organization based in Kuwait and founded in 2002. The center targets children and young community members from ages 13-27. The center promotes critical thinking, innovation, entrepreneurship, community service work, health awareness, environmental awareness, leadership and drama, music and performing arts.

About Dow

With annual sales of $54 billion and 46,000 employees worldwide, Dow is a diversified chemical company that combines the power of science and technology with the "Human Element" to constantly improve what is essential to human progress. The Company delivers a broad range of products and services to customers in around 160 countries, connecting chemistry and innovation with the principles of sustainability to help provide everything from fresh water, food and pharmaceuticals to paints, packaging and personal care products. References to "Dow" or the "Company" mean The Dow Chemical Company and its consolidated subsidiaries unless otherwise expressly noted.

About The Dow Chemical Company Foundation

Established in 1979, The Dow Chemical Company Foundation serves Dow’s philanthropic needs by providing charitable gifts to eligible non-profit organizations in the communities where Dow operates that contribute to community success, support sustainability, foster science in society and stimulate innovation.

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