There was a double community and churc
h event on Sunday, November 27. It was the Tenth Anniversary of Anguilla Community Action Network (ACAN) and the Quarterly Celebration of Youth Month at the World Harvest Church in The Quarter.
ACAN, formed by Mr. John C. Lake, an HIV/AIDS activist in Anguilla, is a non-profit non-governmental organisation. Its main mandate is to support persons living with and affected by HIV/AIDS.
During the church service he spoke on leadership with particular reference to his role in the organisation, its survival, achievements
and linkages it forged over the decade. Though still much in need of funding, Mr. Lake said ACAN was fortunate to have received financial assistance for a five-year strategic plan from the Governor’s Office in Anguilla through Project Hope. He was delighted that the organisation had established partnerships with the Ministry of Health and Gender Affairs in Anguilla, the AIDS Foundation in St. Martin/St. Maarten and a Cuban HIV/AIDS project.
Lake was particularly happy that ACAN had also succeeded in forming a Youth Arm, at the Albena Lake-Hodge Comprehensive School, now assisting in spreading awareness information among other youngsters in school and the wider community. Members of the club, who were at the church service, participated in sharing information about ACAN and the e
ffects of the HIV/AIDS virus on world communities.
Mr. Lake was also pleased with the involvement of the World Harvest Church in ACAN’s work and that Pastor Hugo B,rooks had ag
reed to serve as chaplain for the organisation.
Replying, Pastor Brooks said his church was aware of the health concerns poised by the disease and that, apart from the spiritual responsibility of the church, it also had an obligation to look after the wellbeing and health of the community a
s well.
Meanwhile, the pastor and members of the church also showed much appreciation and support for their own very active youth group which recited their pledge during the service. They are also involved in a drum band, horn, and flute music in which they are making much progress. It may not be long before they are seen performing
alongside ot
her youth organisations in appro
priate community and church functions inclu
ding parades.
