Dear Editor,
I have been observing the selfless acts of community development by the Women of Substance Organization. It was formed by a group of women primarily from Henrietta on the Essequibo Coast about one year ago, and their membership is gradually increasing. One of their projects is to clean, maintain and beautify the community of Henrietta. They are also raising awareness among other villages so they can replicate the concept.
Several irrigation channels are clogged, which often leads to flooding. It is therefore quite pleasing to witness the women in action, and in collaboration with other volunteers weed the bushes along the roadways, and remove the plastic bottles from the drains.
I am also impressed with their drive to educate the community which I am optimistic will provide positive results. Previously they engaged the youths during their recess, something undertaken by teachers within the group. The nonprofit organization is also providing the necessary tools for its membership to gain entrepreneurial skills which has led to them holding regular fund-raising activities to raise money. They have also invited professionals to come and lecture.
Notably several members of the group were in the float parades on Mash Day in Essequibo, and their inventive designs were memorable. The Regional Administration has supported their cause by providing a rehabilitated building in Henrietta where they can formally meet, and which is also being used for their promotional and educational activities.
Yours faithfully,
Elroy Stephney
