Probation & Child Protection Services Youth Day Camp

Basseterre, St. Kitts—2nd September, 2013–As the Ministry of Community Development, Culture and Gender Affairs continues its efforts in nurturing the youth of our Federation through the implementation of various community-based projects, we embarked upon a camp focused on harnessing the potentials of the St. Paul’s youth.

In April of this year, the Department of Probation would have introduced the first of many community outreach programs with an Easter Camp for youth at-risk, concentrating on young males between the ages of 12-17 from across the island. The camp, although tremendously successful, we believed that with more time and attention with a significantly smaller group than previous we could achieve more. Hence, the Department decided that it was necessary to have more in depth sessions with a limited number of participants, starting with the St. Paul’s community then progress through the other communities throughout the island.

On August 12th, 2013 we began what would be one week of deep-thought, personal testimonies and fun-filled activities that were all concentrated on shifting the ideals of the St. Paul’s youth.

There were several speakers including Dr. Vance Gilbert who spoke to the participants about the importance of Men’s Health and how to remain healthy throughout their lives. Meshach Alford and Terry Morris, two outstanding young men from the St. Paul’s community, Jeffrey Hazel, Director of Sports, Royd Phipps and his drumming team, Franklyn Dorsette and HMP inmates, and Prime Minister, the Honorable Denzil Douglas, who took a few minutes to impart encouraging words.

Noteworthy also, was the presentation made by Sergeant Jacknald Audain. He gave his personal testimony as a youth deemed at risk who grew up and took full advantage of the opportunities life presented to him. Now, he speaks several languages and has earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics.

The kids indulged in a bike ride excursion. This would have been the most exciting activity for them. They rode their bikes together which exemplified solidarity among the young men.

At the conclusion of the camp, the participants received a back-pack filled with back to school supplies compliments of Kittitian Hill. Also, daily meals were made possible with the generous donation of White Gate Development.

The Department of Probation and Child Protection Services wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to the community of St. Paul’s for welcoming us with such warmth and enthusiasm. To the contributors, White Gate Development and Kittitian Hill, we thank you for you willing support towards such a worthy cause. We would.