VOLUNTEERS PRAISED
VolunteeriSM is the foundation by which Barbadian culture was built on.
Delivering the feature address at the Inaugural Awards Ceremony for the residents of the St. Michael Central Constituency Council on Sunday night at the Radisson Aquatica, Minister of Social Care, Constituency Empowerment and Community Development, Steven Blackett, stated that their parents and grandparents’ generations and the way that they chose to live their lives – where they looked out for one another and ensured that the needs of others were met – was an indication of that.
He further stated that he recognises that similarly, the work that the awardees have chosen to do is an indication of this same volunteerism and not because they crave recognition for it.
“The Ministry has recognised that your service to the community is not driven by extrinsic rewards, but by that intrinsic determination that is motivated by a love for people, community spirit and people development. This attitude of volunteerism is one which is historic and inherent in Barbadian culture where neighbours ensured that the needs of the other are met; where an entire village raises a child and respect is a core value. This act of being ‘one’s keeper’ is personified in every village in the St. Michael Central constituency and is indigenous to this community.”
However with this being said, it is good to be recognised and rewarded and hence, these Gems of the Community Awards. “Appreciation is noted as a fundamental human need. The Gems of the Community Awards project was therefore conceptualised to recognise the notable contribution of constituents towards the development of the Constituency and their general contribution to nation building.”
This is why these awards are so important to this constituency, said Blackett. “It should be noted that the hosting of this Awards Ceremony is central to the Constituency Empowerment Programme. It is important to the Ministry of Social Care, Constituency Empowerment and Community Development that recognition is given to the members of the community who are deserving of these awards.”
Likewise, it also holds a special place in his heart, he said. “Every household, every family and every constituent in the St. Michael Central constituency holds a special place in my heart, but this evening’s event is being hosted to celebrate the most outstanding constituents; a distinct group of individuals who have given yeoman service to their community.”