With no financial support from Government to speak of ‘Camp Rescue’ is gaining headway in impacting the lives of youths at risk in Dominica.
Thanks to the complement and commitment of organizers, facilitators and private donors alike, another Dominican youth who stood before the court for a criminal offense has gotten the opportunity to rehabilitate himself outside the prison system.
The 16-year-old Fond Cole male was charged with the theft of a bag on August 17. Following his initial court appearance, talks with the magistrate, probation officer, and about one week in Camp Rescue Londonderry the charge was dropped, with condition of a two-year probation. He was also asked to apologize to his victim.
At today’s hearing in Magistrates’ Court # 2, his parents were encouraged by presiding Magistrate Tiyani Behanzin to reintegrate their son into the school system. They were advised to play a more active and positive role in his life.
Magistrate Behanzin also ordered that the male teen to be sent back to the Camp Rescue programme to complete another season, which will be more academically oriented.
“Make something of your life and everyone will want to be associated with you. Ignore the negatives,” Magistrate Behanzin advised the juvenile.
He further suggested that Camp Rescue could be an alternative or replacement to prison for juvenile offenders, if adequate resources are made available.
“Dominica is lucky to have inspectors and officers that take the time to coach the youth down the right path,” Magistrate Behanzin stated.
“We cannot fail our youth,” he concluded, before signing the young man’s probation order.
Camp Rescue is a collaborative exercise of welfare officers, the Police Force and the church along with private citizens of Dominica.
The six-year-old initiative is intended to provide counseling, anger management training, and general rehabilitation programs for at risk youths in Dominica.
Director of the camp Assistant Superintendant of Police (ASP) Gabriel St. Jean –who was also the presiding prosecutor for the state on this case –said the camp operates exclusively with the support of private donors.
He said government had pledged its support of financial aid to the project some time ago, but still has not lived up to it.
more money and support needed!
well said very good programme
I wish to commend the hard work of those involved, Fr. Cuffy, Gail Hodge , St. Jean and everyone else who continues to give themselves selflessly. We need more people like you, yes, but its good to know that you are there. I hope the authorities realize the importance, and the long term implications of what you are undertaking and give 150% support in all ways.
Its good that the program is getting the deserved recognition and its value is being seen by the law enforcers as a tool for rehabilitation.
Keep it up, its for our children, its for us. You are in my prayers.
I would like to commend the men and women who contributed to Camp Rescue Londonderry, (25 July to August 21, 2010). At the review the most powerful statement was: “God has already rewarded me!” If four (4) millions dollars were invested in the House in Jimmitt for Children at risk. I have no doubt that those in authority will see the need to invest in a juvinille Centre for our youth at Risk, instead of having the incarcerated in the State prison, as recommended by our Constitution.
where can someone volunteer!!
One would think that the D/ca government would be the first to fund this program or at least provide a certain portion. What is the hold up?
Youths are the future adults. If they are appropriately taught and rehabilitated, they could become useful citizens. Dominica in general will benefit from this.
This education should commence at an earlier age while they are attending school which may deter them from committing crimes, be they petty crimes. Petty crimes lead to bigger and worst crimes.
While citizens may be able to assist, it is the primary responsibility of the government to ensure that these youths obtain this important education and should therefore fund this program.
I have never heard of a government not being eager to assist and immediately fund such a juvenile program.
I have always yearn for a system that would provide better tratment of these young people who commit picadillos. Too many of our young people are sent to jail and forced to leave with hardcore criminals. What a waste of young talent. To those who support this program Cheers.