Youth clubs doing big things

More than just a recreational space, this youth club has become an important forum for community policing, providing an outlet for vulnerable youth and acting as a sustainable form of social intervention. It is a model that should be supported in the long-run, if we are serious about tackling crime.

The club, the second oldest, is this year celebrating its silver anniversary. But while we may count its 25 years of existence, it is harder to quantify the invaluable impact it has had on its community and, potentially, society at large. So many youths have experienced the positive effects of the club.

Yesterday’s report in this newspaper, detailed a few instances, including: the case of a young man from Laventille who lost three brothers to murder and the other three to prison; another young man put out by his stepfather and a disabled mother simply seeking an additional parental figure for her son.

Not only has the club had a positive impact on the lives of its members from a personal standpoint, but it has also in created respect between communities and the Police Service.

While there are already well over 100 youth clubs (four new clubs were launched last year in Caparo/Palmiste, Flanagin/ Mamoral, Tabaquite/Brasso and Gran Couva) there needs to be more of this. Certainly the demand is high.

In April 2013, police officers overseeing these clubs were made full-time, meaning they were now tasked with running these clubs to the fullest of their abilities. But a few weeks ago, a call was made for youth clubs to be set up not only across divisions but also in all primary and secondary schools.

“We will like to see the Ministry of Education institutionalise and incorporate police youth clubs in all primary and secondary schools and we will like to see greater collaboration among government agencies to more effectively address the issue of school violence,” said ACP Enez Joseph, who is in charge of community policing.

Some time ago, these same schools were serviced by youth organisations who would undertake to visit the sick in hospitals, developing an attitude among young people so that they can appreciate having a role in society.

Such organisations have been useful in instilling discipline and respect. Sadly though, these organisations need resources.

In this regard, the St James Youth Club has been fortunate.

It has been supported by the UK Women’s Club; the American Embassy, which refurbished the club in 2001; the Citizen Security Programme, which donated a bus; the Lion’s Club; the Rotary Club; the Canadian High Commission and the British High Commission.

But while thankful for this support, the club’s manager/ founder PC Derrick Sharbodie is urging the private and public sector to get involved.

As part of its 25th anniversary celebrations, the club is planning a career day, featuring alumni members who now work in various fields; a gospel concert; a family and fun day; a public speaking discussion; an Easter variety concert featuring past members, including reggae singer Jah Melody and media personality Jason Williams; a University of the West Indies panel discussion on the relevance of youth clubs; panel discussion on youth and crime and an awards ceremony.

Sharbodie hopes that all police youth clubs will eventually become full-time centres, like St James, and places where young people know they can receive help without judgement or intimidation.

It’s a noble aspiration which should be supported by all.