The Rotary Club of Barbados is teaming up with the Juvenile Liaison Scheme to help at-risk school children be the best version of themselves.
The 12-week programme is called Project Elevate: Peace Through Service, and acting sergeant at the scheme, Kim Harris, said violence at school, home and in the community could have a negative impact on young minds.
Harris, who was speaking to the media during the launch of the programme on Saturday morning, said it was aimed at helping children 11 to 16 years refrain from indulging in such behaviour and encourage their peers to do what is right.
“We are looking at conflict resolution, building character and building self-esteem,” she said. “We want children to advocate for non-violent behaviour. School should be a place where they feel comfortable and they should be able to feel comfortable on the street. They should not have to worry about violence on the streets and so we are trying to encourage them to be peace ambassadors.”
Director of the Rotary Club, Arlene Ross, said there would be a wide variety of activities for children to take part in that would develop their interpersonal skills. She said the students would be mentored and benefit from motivational speeches.
The programme is taking place at the Royal Barbados Police Force Boys and Girls Club, Bay Street, St Michael.
There is also a parental component of the programme. (SB)
