International collaboration between two Kiwanis Clubs has left one in Jamaica with a bounty of half a million dollarsThe Kiwanis Club of Bighton (Western New York) and the Garden Parish, Ocho Rios are celebrating their success in raising a large sum of funds to help the two clubs, communities and countries.The proceeds of exactly J$ 505,000.00, was handed over to the past president of KC Garden Parish, Eva Myers by Lieutenant Governor of KC Bighton NY, Jordan Neuringer.
The money is slated to benefit the children and communities in the parish, particularly in aid of constructing a sick bay at the Breadnut Hill basic school. Plans to implement parenting and education billboards are also under way.The cheque was in turn handed over from past president Eva Myers, to the current KC Garden parish president, C. Angela Strudwick, and president designate, Audrey Sutherland-Grant.
The funds were generated from a 50/50 raffle organized in 2015, sponsored by Jewel Resorts Jamaica – Paradise Cove, Dunns River and Runaway Bay, as well as Mystic Mountain, Dolphin Cove, Chukka Adventure Tours and Urban Development Corporation.
The presentation was held on Tuesday, August 16, at Evita’s Italian restaurant, where weekly meetings are held for the KC Garden Parish.
According to LG Jordan, the raffle was first showcased at the New York district mid-winter convention. Tickets were sold in the neighbouring communities and at other conventions. The winners of the raffle, he said, will receive all-inclusive passes from a Jewel Resort, as well as a few secured excursions. He proudly added that the three winners of the raffle are all Kiwanians who are very excited to visit Jamaica. As it related to the funds generated for the Kiwanis Club of Bighton, a playground in the area is to be upgraded to facilitate children with disabilities.
The aim is to observe their theme, “Preserving the legacy, sustaining the future for our children” and, as stated by LG Jordan, is being done “one child and one community at a time”.He also mentioned that details of the raffle will be submitted to the Kiwanis International Magazine so as to urge other worldwide Kiwanians to interact. He hopes for another staging of the raffle next year.General manager Jewel Paradise Cove Beach Resort and Spa, Barbara Burton spoke on behalf of the Jewel Resorts expressing their gratitude for being involved in the worthwhile venture.The ceremony ended shortly after a toast was given to Kiwanis International.
