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The air in the Ianthe Pratt Primary School devotion buzzed with a quiet anticipation that warmed my heart. As Chairman of United Way Turks and Caicos, standing there on March 31st, 2025, watching the bright, eager faces of the children, felt like a moment truly worth all the effort. The launch of our “Yes I Can Read” intervention program at this wonderful school marked not just an expansion – our second year already seeing such positive impact at two other schools – but a deeper connection to the future of our islands.
My mind drifted back to the initial vision, the quiet determination within our United Way Board to tackle the critical issue of literacy head-on. We knew that a child who couldn’t read at grade level faced an uphill battle, a shadow cast over their potential. It was a burden we felt compelled to lift.
Looking out at those young eyes, I imagined them unlocking the magic held within the pages of a book, embarking on countless adventures, and gaining the confidence that comes with understanding the world through words. That’s the real victory, the quiet triumph of comprehension.
Thanks to the Schechter Family Foundation, whose generous funding made this new chapter at Ianthe Pratt possible. Their belief in our mission fuels our ability to reach more young minds. And of course, my appreciation goes to our dedicated CEO, Ms. Ewing, whose tireless effort is the bedrock of UWTCI smooth operation and the program’s success.
As I shared my enthusiasm with everyone gathered, emphasizing the crucial role of our donors, it wasn’t just words I spoke. It was a genuine outpouring of hope. Hope for these children, hope for their bright futures, and a deep-seated commitment to see this program flourish.
When Vice Chair Rex offered a heartfelt prayer for the entire school community, it resonated deeply with our collective commitment. Improving literacy isn’t just a project; it’s a promise – a promise to these young minds. It’s about giving these children the key to unlock their own success, one word, one sentence, one story at a time. And that, for me, is the most rewarding chapter of all. Thanks to the Minister of Ed Principal Ms. King her Vice Ms Saunders.
