May I take this opportunity to comment on the letter from M. Thompson-London titled “Do Something to help the Young People” in your March 20th issue. While I agree with some of the opinions expressed, I take issue with the fact that the writer thinks that nothing is being done to help young people gain life skills to boost their self-esteem and maturity to enable then to become responsible adults.
The writer suggests that Government putting money into building a multi-purpose Youth facility will be the solution to perceived problem. I would record that for 60 years The Girls’ Brigade, an International, interdenominational organization, has offered a programme of educational, spiritual, service and physical activities, plus The Duke Of Edinburgh Award and Leadership Training, that has equipped hundreds of young women to take leading roles in this society.
There is a Company in every district of Grand Cayman so no one has to travel to a Facility in George Town to have access to its programmes. Every church in the Islands has some form of youth programme (Elmslie United caters for about 300 children and young people on its premises every week:) there are Scout Troops, Cadets, Key Clubs, After-School Programmes, After-School Clubs in the High Schools, Youth Clubs, Sports Net Clubs (football, basketball, baseball, Little League Softball, Rugby, Swimming, Netball, Cricket, Volleyball), for those who like sports.
For the academically inclined there are Evening Classes and Art Classes. Then there is such a thing as engaging in a hobby, or making your own amusement with friends as all young Caymanians did in days gone by (and there was little crime!). So, what am I trying to convey?
No building, however well-equipped and staffed, is going to make “good citizens” and give young people something to do – just good parents, dedicated teachers, vibrant Christian role models-and I see plenty of these around! I also see relevant agencies to take care of any with special needs. Young people need to take advantage of all opportunities that exist.
Olive Miller
Editors Note: This letter is reprinted because some information was inadvertently left out previously.
