Joy of Youth Foundation strikes a chord
Published:Tuesday | December 13, 2011 | 12:00 AM
Correction & Clarification
The newspaper incorrectly said Beverley Anderson Manley attended a fund-raising concert at the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts. It was, in fact, Mrs Manley who was present. We regret the error.
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Less than a year after the organisation's inception, Beverly Hunter, founder and executive director of the Joy of Youth Foundation Limited, has managed to make a noticeable and well-needed impact on the lives of some of the residents at the National Children's Home - self-proclaimed the 'Winners Music Group'.
Born out of a desire to make a change, if even in the life of one child in a government-sponsored home, the Joy of Youth Foundation Limited works to give the children the opportunity to not only express themselves, but to express love.
The foundation has now embarked on a mission to foster a caring and nurturing environment for children and youth within these homes in order to provide support to meet special needs.
The Joy of Youth Foundation recently hosted a fund-raising concert at the Vera Moody Concert Hall at the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts.
Comedic enthusiast Dr Michael Abrahams excelled in his role as master of ceremonies alongside celebrity performances from the likes of Derrick 'Stewie' Stewart and the Rhythm Five Band, Brown Sugar, Errol Lee and the Bare Essentials, Everton Pessoa, Omari and a host of others who gave and continue to give of their time and efforts to improve the quality of life the children are able to access.
The real showstoppers, however, were the performances from the Winners Music Group, comprising recorder, percussion, keyboard, guitar, violin and voice ensembles.
Each piece performed much to the delight of noted guests including Beverley Anderson Manley and Joan Tucker, renowned music educationist.
The show highlighted the tremendous talents the children possess, which proved to be particularly enchanting, since actual music lessons were only initiated in July.
Despite the financial challenges and resource constraints, Hunter, the foundation's director, remains hopeful for the programme and for the children involved.
Leroy Anderson, director of the National Children's Home, lauded Joy of Youth Foundation's efforts and referred to the sweet sounds of Saturday afternoon lessons as "heartwarming" and explained that with the hardships some of the young residents have lived through, the programme is a true ray of hope.
More information about the Joy of Youth Foundation's efforts can be accessed by visiting their website at www.joyofyouth.org or email info@joyofyouth.org.