The trip was an opportunity for the students to experience the culture of the country and form relationships with the people. This trip helped the students to see that all the people in the world are connected far more than they had previously thought. Working with the children showed them that it really is of paramount importance for them to have a good education and upbringing because they are truly the future of the world.

Assisting the older persons and listening to their stories helped them to gain respect for their elders, which they cherish and will take back to America. The Stories and wisdom that the older persons passed on to the students is not something that they will soon forget.

Working at the Grotto really opened the students’ eyes to see that there is a call to extend a helping hand to those in need here Dominica and in their own towns back at home. It inspired many of them to look for other ways to give back and help in any way that they can. Before they left, the group made donations to each of the institutions that they worked with.

After ten days, none of the students were ready to leave. Stepping out of their comfort zones were difficult for some of the students, as they had never been exposed to some of the situations that they saw here in Dominica. But, they left all saying that it was worth the heat to have the experiences that they had. The people that they met here in Dominica will forever remain in their memories and hearts.

According to the students, this experience inspires them to do more work around the world.

The guests were entertained with exquisite renditions from the notorious Mrs. Ophelia Marie and our own Board Member, Dr. William Green with his recitation of repertoire from William Shakespeare and last but not least, Brother Bosco Wakeham who with his usual witty jokes had the audience in a steady uproar of laughter.

In his featured address, His Lordship Bishop Gabriel Malzaire highlighted the means and ways in which we as a society (both young and middle aged) can reach out to the older persons based on the theme “Bridging the Gap: The Social Effects of Segregation.” The following is an extract from his speech:

“Bridging the Gap: The Social Effect of Segregation,” presumes that all is not well with our society, or any human society for that matter. It admits that there are splits and cracks in human relationship and interaction by virtue of our very existence. The ‘generation gap’ describes the chasm that exists between older folks and the young. That involves the difference in the attitude, priorities and world views among generations.

The entire purpose of technological advancement is to improve the quality of life of people as a whole. But whose life is being improved? Or is life really improving with technology? Or are certain means of social communication causes of more lack of communication between the generations?

The young become poorer and poorer at one-to-one conversation and more comfortable being spoken to by gadgets and the screen than by people. Ironically, children and older persons are the two extreme ends of the generation spectrum. How we treat them says a great deal about how we value human life and how we value their presence in our midst; whether we see them as assets to our development or liabilities to be set aside or discarded.

This gap has always been enormous, only that the circumstances in our modern world seem poised to make it widen. Certainly a greater openness to our youth and their needs, and a greater measure or patience with and respect for our older persons can go a long way in bridging the gap and alleviating the unnecessary feeling of segregation.

In an effort to solidify her skills for her work throughout her community in Grand Bay, Mrs. Pascal was recommended by the Dominica Council on Aging for PAHO fellowship in “Community Care of the Elderly” in Jamaica for six months in 1997. On completion of this course, she was awarded a certificate. Also, with the support of the late Fr. Jerome Moody, Mrs. Pascal started the “Prayer in Action” prayer group which eventually led to the launching of the St. Jerome’s Ministry which focuses on ‘Care of the Elderly.’ The ministry is actually named after the late Fr. Jerome Moody.

“Friends of the Seniors” is another programme started by Mrs. Pascal to assist in bridging the gap between the young and the seniors. Her love and caring concern for the older persons continue to shine through the many works she does which also includes the staging of a few productions namely, “Beauty of Aging,” “Beauty of the Night” and “Emancipation in the Garden.”

HATS OFF! to Mrs. Pascal and may God bless you as you continue to labour in His vineyard. Once again, CONGRATULATIONS!

Emerald Pool.

Vendors lined the entrance of Emerald Pool, selling an array of candies, fruits, and colorful souvenirs. Accompanying the group of vendors sat a musician delivering a rendition of a traditional Dominican jig, of which one of the grannies took instant notice. With impressive coordination, the granny began to beautifully execute each move of the jig, much to the delight of a small audience (including the other grannies, the REACH staff, and a few of the vendors and tourists). After this bit of entertainment, the grannies munched on chips and fruit, while three members of the REACH staff and two of the grannies began a brisk walk to the beauteous Emerald Pool.

The grannies gazed on in awe as the immaculate waters of the pool and waterfall reflected a kaleidoscope of greens and blues. Pictures were taken, and experiences and sights were committed to memory. The grannies were then ready for the second portion of their day trip adventure;

onward to the Carib Territory.

The grannies gazed out of the window of the REACH bus in utter delight as the bus entered the Carib Territory. The beautiful sights of Dominica’s nature and rich history rewarded their eyes. Lining the sides of the road were women weaving baskets, long haired children skipping and running about, and men performing daily tasks such as construction and gardening. After parking the bus, the jovial group of REACH staff and grannies commenced on a short walk to the Carib Model Village.

The lecturers were Fr. Michael McDermott who spoke on Mental Health of the Elderly focusing on Parkinson’s Disease, Mrs. Rene Miller (RN) who spoke on Stasis
Dermatitis and Mrs. Dorene Spies – a qualified administrator who spoke on the Eden Alternative. The conference was geared at educating persons on how to take care of the skin, mental health and the overall care of older persons.

Among the participants were Religious Sisters, administrators of nursing homes, nurses, care takers, older persons and Marpin Telecoms. The information received
were interesting, informative and very educational.

The management of REACH express sincere thanks to the team for their generous support to REACH, and best wishes in all their endeavours. God bless you all!

This year our Featured Speaker was Fr. Michael McDermott from Grand Island, Nebraska. In his speech, Fr. McDermott not only stressed on the mental health of older persons but highlighted their spiritual need as well. Fr. Michael said, “The Spiritual Needs of older persons are equally important as their Mental Health.” He encouraged all to take serious interest in the spiritual needs of the older person(s) they care for.

REACH was blessed to have Bro. Bosco Wakeham back with us this year, as out Master of Ceremony. With his witty sense of humour, he kept the audience laughing for the whole evening. The entertainment this year was extremely amazing. The Pointe Michel Cultural Group serenaded everyone with their beautiful enchanted cultural songs and dances while Tarina Simon left everyone in awe with her uniquely amazing voice. She had everyone rocking in their seats to the song ’Simply the Best’ by Tina Turner. Tarina herself was just simply the best.

The hall was beautifully and uniquely decorated by Mrs. Jennifer Fadelle. REACH expresses sincere thanks to her for her contribution. REACH also thanks all those who worked tirelessly to make this event a success.

Entertainment was provided by the Giraudel jing ping band and a local primary school group. The Fete Charlotteville committee graciously prepared lunch, snacks and dessert for all the older persons who attended the event, and had a great assortment of foods such as sandwiches, fish, chicken, pork, fig and macaroni pies, and cake.

The Fete Charlotteville Day for the Elderly was truly a treat for the older persons who attended, and R.E.A.C.H. is thankful that its daycare patrons were able to attend!