Basseterre, St. Kitts, December 09th, 2011 (SKNIS): The Department of Youth Empowerment is calling on residents of St. Kitts and Nevis to give back to society by volunteering.
 
“It is something we are really pushing,” the Department’s Director, Geoffrey Hanley, told SKNIS. “It helps to develop an individual, and it gives you a sense of satisfaction … when a project or event is successful. Even if it is not as successful as you would want it to be, at least you can learn from your missteps and go back to the drawing board.”
 
Volunteerism can take any form. Some of the more popular forms include service to agencies, such as the Red Cross or Fire and Rescue Services, a church or community oriented committee, or for events, such as participating in a beach cleanup. Mr. Hanley noted however, that persons can volunteer their time to tutor struggling students, mentor young people, or develop programmes/projects that benefit the underprivileged or underserved.
 
“Volunteerism is actually a breeding ground for leadership, and this is something we are trying to encourage our young people to do - to take the lead,” the Director explained, noting that it is often the same persons that step up to give their time freely. “These faces are being burnt out, so we are trying to develop a passion within more young people to experience the excitement of service.”
 
Mr. Hanley added that he has done community service over the years, and he has become a better man because of it. In September last year, he was honoured by the Scout Association in the United Kingdom for 20 years of Outstanding Leadership Service. Today, he still serves as a member of the St. George’s Anglican Scout Group.
 
Additionally, the current state of global affairs has resulted in a reduction of funding for projects by local, regional and international agencies.
 
“Because of the financial situation that the world faces right now, it is even more important and practical for us to be pushing volunteerism, showing people that it’s not all about money, and they can get satisfaction beyond the pocket,” Director Hanley stated.
 
Persons wishing to volunteer for programmes organized by the Department of Youth Empowerment can get information via telephone 467-1393 or 465-2521 extension 1393. Others preferring service elsewhere are encouraged to contact the relevant authorities.
 

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