Jamaica
Our Work in
Empowering Martha Brae Youth:
The Transformative Impact of the Saturday School
Our founder Manijeh’s engagement with the Martha Brae community in Trelawny Parish predates the establishment of Village Rise by several decades, reflecting a deeply personal and sustained commitment to the community.
Village Rise, in partnership with local leaders, established the Saturday School Program, which provides critical educational and nutritional resources to local children and youth and continues to address the systemic challenges that perpetuate poverty.
The Saturday School Program’s Focus
Jamaica faces significant socio-economic challenges, and the lack of a robust social safety net exacerbates these issues, making it difficult for children to access quality education and nutrition. The Saturday School Program directly addresses these needs by providing educational support, meals and counseling, creating a safe and nurturing environment on weekends to children aged 2-18 across Trelawny’s surrounding communities.
The Saturday School Program originated from collaborative discussions between Manijeh and Pastor Shawn Kelly, identifying that many local students required additional educational support beyond their regular schooling. This vision gained momentum when Pastor Shawn moved to a space with greater capacity, enabling the program's expansion to serve at-risk children in the broader community.
To ensure the program's effectiveness, a dedicated team was assembled, and a strategic operational plan was developed through collaborative discussions, bringing the Saturday School to life. Alongside this, Village Rise addressed housing, education, and small business needs, aiming to empower the Martha Brae community.
Partners & Team Members
In Jamaica, Village Rise partners with the Independent Baptist Mission for Jamaica and the Dominican Republic (IBMFJ&TDR), a crucial partner providing resources and on-the-ground support, the Martha Brae Independent Baptist Church (Pastor Shawn Kelly), which administers the Saturday School and facilitates community connections, and Local community leaders and educators, which actively participate in program implementation.
Our Dedicated Team
Pastor Shawn Kelly is an invaluable all-rounder, a true "jack-of-all-trades," ensuring the program's smooth operation by handling everything from sourcing essential supplies to providing mentorship.
Ms. Tamara Lewis has a passion for child development and extensive experience, she skillfully facilitates learning for children aged 7-11.
Mrs. Euphemia Rodney has an early childhood education specialist, engaging children aged 2-6 with fun and effective learning activities.
Ms. Dhaina Kelly is a recent high school graduate with a heart for youth development, assisting with teaching both teens and younger children.
Ms. Allison Lattibeaudiere is a social worker specializing in child care, providing invaluable support to teenagers through teaching and counseling.
Our Impact
Improved educational outcomes: Children receive tailored tutoring and support.
Nutritional support: Children receive fruits and warm lunches, addressing food insecurity.
Counseling support: Professional counselors addressing the children’s emotional and social needs.
Community engagement: Parents and community members actively participate.
Resource provision: Essential supplies and equipment are provided, including printers, art supplies, and school materials.
Program growth: Plans for educational trips and enhanced organization are underway.
Children served: 25-30 children served weekly
Enhanced living conditions: Housing initiatives provide stability for families.
Third Base - Helping Young Adults Transition from Orphanage Care
The "Third Base" Program, a complement to the Saturday School Program, is a vital initiative in the Martha Brae community. It is designed to provide a "hand up, not a hand out" to young adults transitioning out of orphanage care. This program focuses on equipping these individuals with the necessary skills, education, and support to become self-sufficient and productive members of their community.
Young adults transitioning from orphanage care often lack the necessary support systems to navigate life independently. They face challenges such as finding stable housing, securing employment, and continuing their education. Without proper support, they are at risk of falling into cycles of poverty and crime.
Our Impact
In order to address the critical needs of young adults transitioning from orphanage care, the Third Base Program established a comprehensive support system, involving conducting initial assessments to identify housing, educational, and employment gaps, followed by providing safe housing and daily necessities. The program also provides job placement assistance and mentorship to further educational and vocational training to aid with successful integration. Through ongoing monitoring and evaluation, the program adapts to the evolving needs of its participants, directly addressing the challenges of independent living and fostering a pathway to self-sufficiency.
Young adults are gaining essential life skills and securing employment.
The community is witnessing positive changes as these young adults become productive members of society.
Participants are developing skills for independent living and contributing positively to their communities.
We are seeing a reduction in vulnerability as these young adults build stable, self-sufficient lives.
As productive members of society the young adults have the tools and education to break the cycle of inequity in Jamaica.
