Director of Community and Social Development commends Independence Awardees
By Terresa McCall
Reporrter-SKNVibes.com
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Jovil Martin - Director of Community and Social Development
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BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – SPECIAL commendation was given by Director of Community and Social Development Jovil Martin to the 36 recipients of the 2008 Community Awards, for the way they have personified and promoted the Federation’s motto of “country above self”.
Martin made the remarks yesterday (Sept. 16) at the 25th Independence Anniversary Community Service Awards Ceremony held at the Royal St. Kitts Hotel and Casino.
“The 36 recipients representing the various communities were selected because they have demonstrated leadership in philanthropy or in a number of community-based activities including, but not limited to education, sports, health, religion, business, youth development.
These are individuals who have a clear understanding of social issues and have readily accepted the responsibility not only for themselves, but for those living amongst them. These individuals exhibit daily what it means to live a life that is truly country above self.”
The Director described the awardees as individuals who view community service not as harassment but rather as their civic duty and contribution towards the advancement of the Federation. ~~Adz:Right~~
“The people being awarded today do not view community service as a hassle or a bother. They believe it’s a good thing. In fact, giving back to the community should be something people volunteer to do willingly. To be engaged in community service means to volunteer, to give up time, talent, expertise, services, resources, to take on the task that you are not required to do for pay…”
Martin explained that for the past 25 years the Federation of St. Christopher and Nevis has seen much development, progress and success which volunteers and civic-minded individuals such the awardees has assisted in bringing about.
“On this our National Hero’s Day, the Ministry of Social and Community Development and Gender Affairs and the Ministry of Health applaud all of you for promoting collaboration and cooperation and for utilising your skills and experience for the empowerment of St. Kitts and Nevis. Truly, our 25 years of success belongs to you and to the others of similar vein within our community. Pride, Development, Progress; Independence 25 years of Success, which we applaud you for today.”
The Independence Community Awards, as explained by Martin, is aimed at “foster(ing) pride in our community and in the people who work unselfishly and undividedly to make St. Kitts and Nevis a better place to live”.
