Time to help youth who are making a difference!

Dear Editor;

Is there a place in the Bahamian society for young people? We constantly hear complaints about how the youth of the nation are on a downward spiral to destruction, but what is being done to prevent this from happening?

Why are we not helping those young persons who are actually trying to make a difference and be a positive influence in society? I belong to the Rotaract Club of Freeport, a Rotary sponsored organization that promotes professional development and community service for persons between the ages of 18 – 30.

Presently, we have a strong club of approximately 30 active members. Recently, we lost a member of our club to cancer and have therefore partnered with the Cancer Association to try and assist them with the expansion of their hospice.

Our first big fund-raiser in this venture was the Pink and White Affair. There were many companies on the island that assisted as best as they could with this venture for which we are truly grateful, however, I must say that I am extremely disappointed in the support from the media.

Other than Cool 96 and Bahama Buy and Sell, who are always supportive, we basically had zero support from other media sources. It is extremely frustrating and disappointing to be constantly faced with this problem. After many, many phone calls, we were able to get The Freeport News to put a small spot in the paper for us.

ZNS cancelled our press conference with promises of calling to reschedule, but the only calling that took place was us constantly calling, almost to the point of stalking.

However, this would have not been the case if our event was political, or if we had committed a crime. Why is it to get anything done in Freeport you must always have 'the hook up?' We need to move beyond this narrow- minded way of operating and treat everyone with respect whether you know their family background or not.

Please remember that we are the future of this nation and should be given a chance to prove that some of us are actually trying to head in the right direction.

Sincerely Yours

CANOVIA MISSICK

© 2008 The Freeport News