RFAs: Operations and Maintenance at the Bourj Hammoud Community Center (Lebanon)

Deadline: 05-May-2026

The United Nations Office for Project Services is supporting the operational management and maintenance of the Bourj Hammoud Community Center in Bourj Hammoud. The initiative aims to strengthen municipal services, promote social cohesion, and provide inclusive community spaces. With funding from the KfW Development Bank, the project contributes to sustainable urban recovery and community resilience.

The Bourj Hammoud Community Center Initiative 2026 focuses on transforming a municipal facility into a fully functional, inclusive, and sustainable community hub.

Core Objective

To ensure effective operation, maintenance, and programming of a multi-purpose community center that enhances social services and community engagement.

Geographic Context

• Location: Bourj Hammoud
• Country: Lebanon
• Site: Near Bourj Hammoud Stadium

Local Challenges

• High population density
• Socio-economic pressures
• Limited access to inclusive public spaces

Key Focus Areas

1. Municipal Recovery & Infrastructure

• Strengthen local public services
• Maintain community infrastructure

2. Social Cohesion & Community Resilience

• Promote inclusive participation
• Foster stronger community relationships

3. Community Programming

• Deliver:
  • Recreational activities
  • Social services
  • Capacity-building workshops

4. Facility Management & Maintenance

• Ensure:
  • Continuous operation
  • Safe and accessible environment
  • Long-term sustainability

5. Alignment with Global Goals

• Supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions)

Key Concept: Community Center as a Municipal Hub

What is a Community Center?

A shared public space that provides social, educational, and recreational services to local residents.

Functions of the Bourj Hammoud Center

• Multi-purpose activity space
• Training and capacity-building venue
• Platform for community engagement

Why It Matters

• Enhances social inclusion
• Strengthens local governance
• Supports community resilience

Project Structure and Funding

• Implementing Agency: United Nations Office for Project Services
• Programme: Sustainable Integrated Municipal Actions (SiMA)
• Funding Partner: KfW Development Bank
• Government Support: Government of Germany
• Local Partner: Municipality of Bourj Hammoud
• Maximum Grant: $120,000

Facility Overview

Key Features

• Located near sports infrastructure
• Integrated with:
  • Stadium
  • Sports courts

Intended Use

• Community events
• Youth and sports programmes
• Social and educational initiatives

Who is Eligible?

Eligible Applicants

• NGOs and civil society organizations
• Community-based organizations
• Organizations with experience in:
  • Facility management
  • Community programming
  • Municipal service delivery

Required Expertise

• Operations and maintenance
• Community engagement
• Programme implementation

Why This Project Matters

Strengthens Municipal Services

• Improves local governance capacity

Promotes Social Inclusion

• Creates safe and accessible spaces

Builds Community Resilience

• Encourages participation and collaboration

Supports Sustainable Development

• Aligns with SDG 16 goals

How the Project Works

Step-by-Step Process

1. Partner Selection
   • UNOPS selects implementing organization
2. Operational Setup
   • Establish management systems
3. Programme Development
   • Design community activities
4. Facility Management
   • Maintain infrastructure and services
5. Monitoring & Sustainability
   • Ensure long-term functionality

How to Apply

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Review Call for Proposals
   • Understand scope and requirements
2. Prepare Proposal
   Include:
   • Operational plan
   • Maintenance strategy
   • Community engagement plan
   • Budget
3. Align with Objectives
   • Focus on:
     • Social cohesion
     • Sustainability
     • Municipal strengthening
4. Submit Application
   • Follow UNOPS guidelines
5. Prepare for Implementation
   • Ensure readiness to manage facility

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Weak maintenance planning
• Limited community involvement
• Unsustainable programming models
• Poor coordination with municipality
• Lack of monitoring systems

Pro Tips for Success

• Engage local stakeholders early
• Design inclusive programmes
• Ensure financial sustainability
• Integrate sports and social activities

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the purpose of this project?

To operate and maintain a community center while delivering inclusive social programmes.

2. Where is the project located?

In Bourj Hammoud, Lebanon.

3. Who is implementing the initiative?

UNOPS under the SiMA project.

4. What is the funding amount?

Up to $120,000.

5. Who can apply?

NGOs and organizations with relevant experience.

6. What activities will the center support?

Recreational, social, and capacity-building programmes.

7. Why is this project important?

It strengthens community resilience and municipal services.

Conclusion

The United Nations Office for Project Services initiative in Bourj Hammoud represents a strategic investment in community infrastructure and social cohesion.

By combining facility management with community-driven programming, the project ensures that the community center becomes a sustainable, inclusive, and impactful civic space for long-term development.

For more information, visit UNOPS.