Last Saturday, the Maxfield Park Children’s Home was abuzz with excitement, when the TEENage Observer team, joined with the University of the West Indies’ Rotaract Club, to host a pre-Christmas treat for the children.

Backed by various corporate sponsors – NCB Foundation, Juici Patties, Island Grill, Cooyah, Western Electric, MegaMart and Scoopies Ice-cream – the event was a success.

“We are really pleased and excited,” beamed Joy-Ann Tabanor, president for the university’s Rotaract Club.

“We have built a relationship with these children over the years and we are even more pleased that the GSAT passes have gone up to 67 per cent. One ward even copped six subjects in the recent CSEC exams,” she stated proudly.

As testimony to this vast academic improvement, numerous trophies and awards glistened from a glass cabinet, nestled in the corner of one of the rooms at the home. Trophies for first place performances in reading, spelling and other oratorical competitions, sponsored by the Rotaract Club were exhibited there.

The voluntary initiative was started in 2007 and since then more than 100 children who reside at the home have been receiving mentorship and academic tutelage from the over 30 active members of the club. They are assisted with homework and GSAT lessons on weekends and treated to tasteful entertainment at the end of each semester.

Last Saturday, saw the culmination of this semester’s activities and undoubtedly, the children had a grand time, with music, delicious treats and performances.

Raising the excitement to a high pitch, DJ Ash from Coppershot reeled off hits such as QQ and Ding Dong’s Skip To Ma Lou and Elephant Man’s riveting dance selections. Media personality Candace Buchanan, along with musical sensations Raine Seville and Alaine followed, engaging the musical talents and dancing prowess of children, who never shied away at competing in dance and song.

One ward of the home, Avital Harvey, passionately belted out the lyrics to Rihanna’s Unfaithful, much to the amusement of her peers, who pierced the roof with screams.

The excitement intensified when 12-year-old Trenica Woodstak, battled on the dance floor with Raine Seville, skilfully motioning to Ding Dong’s Holiday.

And if the talents could not get more impressive, the children showed flexible vibes, dancing to gospel and ska and finally, imitating Michael Jackson’s incredible moon walk dance.

Host Buchanaon serenaded the crowd with her amazing voice, sweetly chiming Jesus Loves Me, much to the surprise of the crowd.

In closing, the entire list of sponsors was awarded with certificates of appreciation from the Rotaract Club.

Members of the club’s planning executive -Trilissa Anderson, Trudi Anderson, Kristen Williams, Christina Calhign, Patrick Forrest, Rohan Allen, Phylicia Williams and Warren Gordon – expressed sincere gratitude to everyone who made valuable contributions.

“Nuff thanks to TEENage Observer and the UWI First Year Experience Group,” they declared.

Executive member, Trudi Anderson, in closing, earnestly besieged every student to get involved in these gestures of selfless giving. She strongly affirmed that giving back to our children will aid our development and our nation’s betterment.

“Children are the future,” she passionately reminded.

Further donations of canned food items are being requested. Just search for the UWI Mona Rotaract Club and make your contact from there.