The community is being praised for its positive response to a campaign focusing on improving the lives of the Island’s children.

Residents have been reaching out to support Family Centre’s “Change Starts With Me” initiative and to “be the change that starts the change”.

The inspirational campaign, which launched at the start of this month, urges the community to think about how we can make a difference in the lives of young people by making simple changes in the way we think and behave.

Parents, grandparents and supportive members of the community have stepped up to make changes in their lives and be role models, with many sharing their stories publicly in advertising in an effort to motivate others.

One mother highlights how “when I started to make positive changes in myself, my children started to see me in a better light”, while a grandmother says that “I have learned to have a strong commitment to live my beliefs and to set a standard for my grandchildren – this does not happen overnight, and it must become my lifestyle”.

A former inmate shares how he turned his back on a life of crime.

“I always looked at how I could get rich quick,” he says. “Instead, I got 12 years in prison. That’s when I decided I had gotten myself roped into trouble and that I had to make a change.”

Many residents have come forward asking how they can assist Family Centre and its clients, especially over the Christmas period.

Their holiday season wish list for families includes Belco, grocery and gas vouchers, toys and gifts for children and adolescents, writing journals and school supplies.

Donations to Family Centre’s work are also gratefully received, with all funding going towards their vital work to reach at-risk families through counselling and community services, training and advocacy.

“We have been blessed this year with a wonderful outpouring of support for families, from international and local companies, individuals, Government, and attendance at our events,” said Martha Dismont, Family Centre executive director.

“Our Beach Bash gala event raised more revenue than in previous years and this was due to the tremendous support from individuals and sponsors.

“Due to the shortfall of previous years, we needed to have a good year this year, and we are almost there. Our end-of-the-year funding campaign, done in partnership with Kirk Kitson, is our last push for funding for the year. We thank all who have given and those who have pledged — your support truly does make a difference.

“Next year is the twenty-fifth anniversary of Family Centre and we will be celebrating the journey of 25 years of caring for children by telling the story of the progress that has been made and the hope that has been instilled.”

If you would like to donate to Family Centre’s year-end campaign, you can do so through their new website at www.tfc.bm or by making a cheque out to Family Centre.

For more information, call 232-1116 or email info@tfc.prevention.bm. You can also visit the Family Centre BDA Facebook page for updates regarding the “Change Starts With Me” campaign.