'I can' says Rose Heights

Sheena Gayle, Gleaner Writer

WESTERN BUREAU:A group of of volunteers who embarked on a mission to alter the negative perception of Rose Heights in Montego Bay some three years ago, is now celebrating the success of the I Can initiative in the community.

The I Can initiative is a non-profit, community-based organisation that was established in 2009. Its affiliate groups, the I Can Youth Club and the parenting group, are also helping to reform the mindset of citizens while creating opportunities for self-sufficiency.

"Our club is at the community centre that also acts as the Rose Heights Basic School. There, we conduct a homework programme, parenting workshops, and other training and personal-development programmes," said president, Lizette Service.

"I can honestly say that the community is really supportive of our efforts and continues to participate in voluntary activities to help change the face of Rose Heights."

ready for new reputation

The community has been violence-prone for several years, but Service revealed that despite the negative stereotype attached to the community, residents do not want to be the highlight of the city only when there is violence.

Community pastor-turned-parish-councillor for the area, Knollis King, also operates a similar initiative in a bid to reduce the incidence of violence in the community.

The I Can Youth Club recently completed a concrete perimeter wall for the community centre to ensure the safety of the children who attend basic school there.

"This recent project is among several other small projects that we do in the community. We did some community street cleaning on Labour Day, a Jamaica 50 cultural showcase, and some beautification along the roadway. This is all part of helping residents feel good about their community and encouraging community pride," Service said.

One of the most profound responses, she recalled, was when a young man disclosed to her that it was his first time accessing opportunities in the community, thanks to the I Can initiative. It is also said that parents are also seeing tangible results from their children who participate in the homework programme.