The Big Brother /
Big Sister program of youth mentorship for the teens of Columbus House for
Girls & Boys, spearheaded by
Rotary Club of GB Sunrise President, James Sarles, held a touching holiday gathering
and concert recently at the “Home Away from Home” Old-Aged Home on Grand
Bahama.
As a Christmas treat for the elderly residents, the
children put on a holiday concert which was well received by all the young at
heart. The children enjoyed performing for the senior residents and they did an
excellent job. The teens also brought gifts for each elderly resident and spent
time talking with them, feeding them holiday party fare, and spreading good
cheer.
As part of the
Columbus House teens’ weekly group outings, ju jitsu classes, and life-skill
development activities, the teens have been taking guitar and music classes
with master guitar teacher, Steve Persaud, every Saturday morning with the assistance
of members of The Rotary Club of GB Sunrise.
Their teens’
musical concert enchanted one and all, as did the touching time the youth spent
making connections that expands the family of the heart.
“Home Away from
Home” Old-Aged Home Director, Mervie Knowles, shared her thoughts “… it was
beautiful to see how the two worlds of Columbus House and the Old Age Home came
together to bring life and caring to each other. The wonderful music, simple smiles, and caring touches do so much
to stir the spirit and share the true joy of connection that Christmas is all
about.”
Special thanks to Marina Gottlieb Sarles and Steve
Persaud who worked with the children to prepare for the concert, and to mentor
them in their music each week.
To support or assist this ongoing youth mentorship
program, which includes job placement assistance and ongoing mentoring to
ensure self-sufficiency once the teens come of age, or to see other activities
sponsored by the Rotary Club of GB Sunrise, see their Facebook page online. Giving is a great way to start off the new year!
