Jamaica needs us more than ever
FOUR DECADES have passed in the blink of an eye and have become inextricably linked with the community through homework and Parenting locations in downtown Kingston, Barbican, Majesty Gardens, De La Vega, Quarry Hill; and Savanna-la-Mar, as well as the STEM Centre, also in downtown Kingston.
The development of these important institutions was not the original strategy but evolved because of to the need for education instead of microloans in the early days. The emphasis on education in all its facets has been driven by the wishes and guidance of the people we serve in those communities and by their choices in determining their own priorities.
Therefore, the choices made were not arrived at by our external views, and the initiatives taken in fulfillment of their transformation has been widely recognised in their adoption in the wider Caribbean, Central America, and Africa. This is testimony to the international reputation of former General Manager Frances Madden, ably carried on by her successor, Tanketa Chance-Wilson.
The public tone of our interactions has always been low-keyed, but again, 40 years deserves to emerge as a clearly demonstrated effective and sustainable methodology in bringing peace, growth, pride, and a pathway to a better standard of life. It is what we have been doing for a long time, but as we emerge, we must realise that Jamaica needs us more than ever.
I salute the students, their parents, and the communities that continue to encourage and nurture our activities. Thanks to those who have been committed in vision, volunteerism in teaching, and donations from their salaries over the past many years, and thanks to our parent company, which has provided further resources for our continuance.
No thanks can be great enough for our dedicated staff, who give of their expertise and love as they positively influence and love those under our care. They have mothered and fathered thousands of children who have already taken their rightful places in our society and who continue to give back to the Foundation.
Thanks to all those with a vision who were bold enough to act on their views. Finally, thanks to our international donor agencies and foundations that continue to help our efforts whenever practical. We ask for God’s continued blessing and inspiration as we continue our valuable work for Jamaica, land we love.