The launch of the Big Brother Program took place on February 3rd, 2015. The program’s continued long term goals are:
? To help and improve the self confidence among our boys.
? To teach our youth the means by which to avoid risky behaviours such as getting into fights, using drugs and alcohol.
? To instill the importance of an education that will change their lives for the better.
Throughout the 4 months since its inception the boys of the program have looked forward to the Tuesday meetings with the varied mentors. The boys have held discussions with not only their mentors but other members in society such as Mr. Jaheel White, Mr. Malcolm Webster, Mr. John Martin, Mr. Paul Petty, Officer Best, Mr. Michael Fleming, Pastor Phillip Gumbs, Pastor Rondy Isles and Pastor Thompson. The teachers and staff at the Vivien Vanterpool Primary School extend a warm thank you and appreciation to the mentors for devoting their time and continued effort towards helping our young men.
Future Aspirations
Although the positive effects of this program will not be immediately seen, we anticipate seeing our young men attain higher goals, better grades and attitudes, higher self-esteem and self-worth before departing for Secondary School. As with any new program/initiative, there are some challenges and as such we need the support of organisations and individuals in the society to assist us in fulfilling our theme “To build up our young men before they become broken men.” This can be achieved by either volunteering your services or making a donation.
It is clearly noted that when a plant on the inside of a house begins to grow, it naturally grows towards the light. It is our hope that this program will be the light for our young men to assist them in overcoming any obstacles that may confront them in their everyday lives.
The program wishes to thank both The Anchor Mini Golf Course, situated in Island Harbour, for opening their doors to the boys and teachers, allowing them the opportunity to bond with the boys of the program. In addition, Cuisinart Golf and Resort has also welcomed the boys to spend quality time on their premises and treated them like tourists. The boys enjoyed themselves immensely at both places and we look forward to your continued support. We also wish to thank Johnnos Beach Bar and Restaurant in Sandy Ground for granting lunch to 3 of the members who have exhibited commendable leadership skills and improved behavior.
The assistance given to the Big Brother Program was greatly appreciated and very beneficial to the boys. We continue to rely on your assistance and partnership in going forward together as we aim to help develop the wellbeing of our future men while encompassing a holistic approach.
– Contributed
(Published without editing by The Anguillian newspaper.)
