LAST WEEK, as patron of Soroptimist International of Barbados (SIB), I attended the funeral of the late Hildegarde Weekes, BSS, JP. I first met Hildegarde when I joined Soroptimists in the 1990s and was immediately impressed and inspired by her wisdom, energy and enthusiasm.
Hildegarde was a teacher as well as one of our first four probation officers. In all that she did, her philosophy was “service to community and to country”. Within her family, she was mentor, friend and confidante, one who found solutions to problems. She was a strict disciplinarian, but at the same time set the gold standard for kindness.
As was noted in a eulogy presented on behalf of Soroptimists by Marguerite Woodstock-Riley, Hildegarde was an outstanding Soroptimist and one of the earliest members of SIB when it was chartered in 1962. She served as president, treasurer and in numerous other posts.
Furthermore, she was involved in the creation of Soroptimist International of the Caribbean, journeying to Jamaica on several occasions, determined that this would become a reality. As the eulogist noted, she succeeded where the men had failed at the West Indies Federation, since Soroptimist International of the Caribbean exists to this day. Perhaps this is a lesson for politicians – involve more women in your deliberations!
Here in Barbados, one of her most outstanding contributions was the inspiration, motivation, and in general, the role she played in the establishment of the Soroptimist Village and Activity Centre in Eden Lodge, St Michael. While on a trip to the US, Hildegarde visited a senior citizens village which captured her imagination and she returned home resolved that her club should establish one here.
Care of the elderly has been a much debated topic for years, with many green and other papers and plans being produced, but with little being translated into real, tangible (or one might say concrete) actions.
Of course, in true Bajan style, many deemed Hildegarde crazy to even consider such an undertaking. Recognising the importance of maintaining independence, dignity and purpose for the elderly, the concept of the village was affordable, independent living for seniors within a community setting and with an activity centre where seniors could be stimulated by sharing activities, learning and companionship.
There was no money or land, but Hildegarde was determined to pursue this dream. She apparently accosted then MP Sir Philip Greaves at a cocktail party and was able to secure from Government a sizeable plot of land on a long-term lease to the club.
She solicited financial support from every conceivable source, local and international, and professional help from architects, engineers and quantity surveyors, who gave of their services freely. In other words, she worked tirelessly and enthusiastically to ensure the dream became a reality. It was the first of its kind in Barbados and possibly the Caribbean, and remains a model in the care for the elderly.
She inspired others to play a part, but they would all agree the village wouldn’t have happened but for Hildegarde.
She worked at it. She personally put the hours in. Andy Voss, the architect, could testify to the hours of site meetings; she behaved as if she was their top client and they treated her as such. Her enthusiasm was infectious.
On completion of the project, she worked at selection of residents, landscaping and maintenance and then served as the first administrator of the activity centre from 1991 to 1994. She continued to volunteer at the centre and attended two days a week until she was 90.
Her legacy as a Soroptimist is much more than the 24 units at Eden Lodge, though that in itself is a tremendous one. Her legacy is in the numerous lives she has enriched, people who have benefited from the facility, the inspiration she leaves us, her drive, determination and working with love.
SIB has plans to enhance the village with a laundry for residents. Let’s hope that young Soroptimists will use the same determination and drive that Hildegarde demonstrated to make this a reality despite any challenges.
As we approach our 49th year of Independence, Barbadians in general would do well to emulate Hildegarde Weekes, a true Barbadian icon. She has taught us invaluable lessons which should help us steer our country back on course.
• Dr Frances Chandler is a former senator. Email [email protected].
