Mrs. Yolanda Gumbs, who was a long-standing employee of the Anguilla Social Security Board, recently turned 65. As a mark of appreciation for her dedicated tenure with the organization, a reception was held on Thursday, March 29th, in her honour, to present her with her first Social Security check.
Mrs. Gumbs joined the staff of Social Security Board in 1981, the same year that the Social Security was established. As an entry level employee she first worked as Registrar/Contributions Officer. Throughout the years, she ambitiously worked her way up the ranks to become Deputy Director, as was her post upon her retirement at age 60.
In chairing the event, Social Security Director, Mr. Timothy Hodge, said: “The proof of the pudding is in the eating. Here is the proof that what Yolanda has put her life’s work in has really paid off for her. Today, the entire staff and I join together in celebrating with her as we present her with her first Social Security check at age 65.”
Attending the brief ceremony of appreciation were Chief Minister Hon. Victor Banks, Minister responsible for Social Security, as well as Mrs. Evalie Bradley who had been Yoland’s very close friend and working colleague.
In making remarks, Mr. Banks said that he was privileged to be with Social Security in the formative years, since its inception, 37 years ago. He claimed, “We were involved in the trenches with Social Security as it began. The first staff of Social Security would obviously have taken on that role under very uncertain circumstances.
“A person like Yolanda, who has been such a great public servant, has helped us to make the transition by being seconded to the then newly established Social Security. She has faithfully given of her time and taken the risk to be with this organization when the future was not as hopeful, at that time, as we know it today. So we are very happy for her selfless service.
“We would like to congratulate her for those years of service, yes, but we are grateful, most of all, that she has been blessed enough to reach to the point where she can receive her first Social Security check.”
Mrs. Bradley then commented: “This is indeed a time to celebrate. Yolanda and myself go a way back. We started high school together, and there is where we became good friends. From then until now, we have maintained that friendship over the years. Yolanda was one of those public servants back in the day who knew the reason why she entered the public service. She knew she was to work hard and give good service. Yolanda was one of those foundation members of the Public Service as it is today. She worked faithfully and dedicated herself to ensure that she always gave great service.
“When she transitioned to the Social Security Board in 1981, I knew that she would take with her the same kind of characteristics in rendering her dedicated service to her tasks. She worked hard through various challenges, but was able to overcome the odds. Yolanda, you have quite a lot to celebrate, and I give God thanks for the long life he has given to you.”
The Director then proceeded to make the presentation to Yolanda by saying: “Statistics indicates that Anguilla is one of those countries in the world with the highest life expectancy, so Yolanda, you can look forward to receiving your checks for a long time. Anguilla Social Security benefits are extended to pensioners all over the world. We do have benefit recipients in the Philippines, in Sri Lanka and other far-flung countries. Today we honor you, Yolanda. Love and blessings to you from the entire Social Security staff and from yours truly.” The Director himself then offered a prayer of blessings and thanksgiving upon Yolanda’s behalf.
Accepting her check, Yolanda then responded: I wish to thank everyone, and especially the Hon. Chief Minister, for attending this ceremony. Mr. Banks and I have worked for some time together in Social Security, and I felt elated to hear he would be here today. I also thank Mrs. Bradley who has been my good friend, and like a sister to me, for many years. Then, I thank Mr. Hodge, my Director, whom I have been associated with for so long in Social Security work. I would like also to thank all the staff — my good colleagues. You always make me feel at home. I feel so joyful and grateful for your kind gesture here today. I pray that each and every one of you would have a strong and healthy life. I do pray that God would bless you all and your families. Thank you!
Tributes of appreciation were spoken by several other staff members who reflected upon their worthwhile years spent working with Yolanda.
The Anguillian extends hearty congratulations to Mrs. Gumbs and hopes that she continues to enjoy her retirement.
