The Montserrat Red Cross now operates under its new patron, Mrs. Sujue Davis, wife of the new Governor of Montserrat His Excellency Adrian Davis. Mrs. Davis assumes her new role which over the previous years was held by the wives of Governors as well as Mrs. Deborah Barnes Jones, herself being Governor prior to Governor Peter Waterworth.
In a release from the Montserrat Red Cross branch announcing Mrs. Davis’ appointment, it explains the purpose of her role, which is, “To work in partnership with the Branch Chair, Director (if applicable) and other relevant volunteers and staff to promote the Branch to potential donors and supporters, particularly to people of influence at local level.”
This provided some key functions for the new patron in exercising her role:
1. To identify key external people of influence at local level who would be able to assist the Red Cross to fulfil its vision and mission locally.
2. To support meetings and events that have been arranged to reach key external stakeholders.
3. To support the Branch Chair in her/his ambassadorial role.
4. To support the Branch Chair in her/his official capacity at Red Cross functions, and where appropriate other functions and events.
5. To uphold the Fundamental Principles of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.
The local Red Cross Committee is looking forward to improved cooperation from their new patron. If one is to judge from the pronouncements of her husband Governor Adrian Davis, the local branch may feel assured that such cooperation would be more than forthcoming.
Reports of the general feeling of local members are that there was very little presence and involvement or support from Mrs. Davis’ predecessor.
One local official declined comment but said they look forward to better days.
Celebrating International Red Cross Week
Meanwhile during this past week, the local Red Cross Branch of the British Red Cross, declaring along with chapters around the world that 2011 is the year of volunteers and volunteering.
This is the theme of International Red Cross Week, which ran from May 1 to May 8. Highlights of the week included the Everyday First Aid classes for residents of the Lookout Warden-assisted homes, primary school students and the mentally challenged with instructor Andre West.
Red Cross and First Aiders members were seen carrying out the V’illage Bucket Collections’ to raise funds for the Red Cross on Thursday and Friday.
The Red Cross also participated in the Career Awareness Day being organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs on Friday at the Montserrat Cultural Centre.
A first annual recognition ceremony will be held this Saturday for outstanding volunteers and Peer Educators and First Aiders who have successfully completed the training.
Sunday, May 8, is International Red Cross Day. They will celebrate with mass at the Salem St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church at 7.00 a.m.; followed by a fund raising cake sale, and delivery of gift baskets to the mentally challenged.
