Running Events Jamaica donates $135,000 to Enid Smedmore Foundation

The Running Events Foundation has extended a much-needed hand of support to the Enid Smedmore Foundation through a donation of $135,000 recently at the Wolmer's High School for Girls.

Diane Ellis, who is a past student of Wolmer's High School for Girls and a director of Running Events Jamaica, was elated to make the contribution to her alma mater. Propelled by her rich experience as a student and guided by the Wolmerian motto, 'Age Quod Agis', (whatever you do, do well), Ellis believes it is Running Events' duty to contribute to the country in meaningful ways as that is the true mark of success.

"From inception, our organisation has had a focus of giving back or making a positive contribution to society. And we have been blessed to be able to formalise that process through the Running Events Foundation," Ellis stated.

"We are delighted to be able to make this donation today. The main motivation for us was the fact that the funds from this foundation will help young ladies who want to continue their education. That's something that's very dear to us, so we definitely wanted to be a part of the movement to help the Enid Smedmore Foundation."

The handover was done by directors of Running Events Jamaica, Alfred 'Frano' Francis and Diane Ellis, in the presence of Norma Brown-Bell, chair and trustee of the Enid Smedmore Foundation, and Jacqueline Hinkson, treasurer of the Enid Smedmore Foundation.

According to Jacqueline Hinkson, the donation arrived just in time. "We are greatly touched by Running Events' donation. We greatly needed the funds because over the years, the funds have been depleted. Running Events has really come to our rescue, so we are eternally grateful," Hinkson stated.

Chair and trustee of the Enid Smedmore Foundation Norma Brown-Bell outlined that seven students from second through to fifth form are supported by the foundation. The tuitions of these students are partially paid so as to lessen the financial strain of both the parents and students. Since inception, the Enid Smedmore Foundation has assisted 30 students who have gone on to successfully pursue their dreams.

The students eligible for funding are chosen by the guidance counsellor, who then recommends the students to the principal. Seven recipients are then selected. The members of the Foundation Committee also go beyond the call of duty by meeting with students and offering guidance and mentorship.