Territorial At-Large Representative, Honourable Lorna G. Smith, OBE, has unveiled a new initiative, Roots to Resilience: Together We Thrive, aimed at fostering vibrant, healthy, and united communities across the Virgin Islands.
The programme, comprising 17 projects, seeks to empower residents through intergenerational engagement, environmental stewardship, and cultural preservation.
In a media release, it said the mission of Roots to Resilience is to strengthen the Virgin Islands community by promoting education, health, and financial well-being while fostering environmental awareness and cultural pride. Its overarching goal is to create a connected and empowered society where every individual feels valued and supported.
Hon. Smith explained, “We must remember that the Virgin Islands is OUR place. This programme is a perfect opportunity for us to rebuild our communities, not only physically but also in spirit.”
Key Projects for 2024
The programme’s inaugural year will focus on seven targeted projects, designed to engage residents across demographics and islands: Paint the Town: Community Beautification Project; Clear the Clutter: Derelict Vehicle Removal Drive; Tradition Meets Tomorrow: Home Economics Training; Wisdom Week: Senior-led Mentorship for Young Adults; Old-time Talk: Cultural Dialect and Slang Mingle; Roots & Branches: Plant a Tree for the Future; and Art from the Heart: Recyclables Competition & Silent Auction.
Hon. Smith has extended an invitation to her fellow House of Assembly members, government departments, and community leaders to collaborate on the initiative.
“We have the power to make the changes needed to return our Virgin Islands to its former heights,” she emphasized.
Residents, volunteers, and organizations are encouraged to participate. The first project, Paint the Town, is set to kick off the program by beautifying communities across the territory, with a focus on building cooperation and pride among neighbours.
The programme will officially launch on December 3, 2024, with details to be shared in the coming weeks.
For more information or to get involved, visit the Constituency Office at Road Reef, contact Brenda Lettsome-Tye at 344-4720, or email togetherwethrivevi@gmail.com.
“Clean is by choice,” Hon. Smith said, reminding residents that a resilient Virgin Islands starts with each of them.