FREEPORT, Grand Bahama – Minister of State for Finance and for Grand Bahama, Senator the Hon. J. Kwasi Thompson, on Friday, July 2 committed to working with the LEAD Institute, during its official launch.

LEAD is a non-governmental organization that assists at-risk youth as well as those who have been incarcerated, re-enter society smoothly. They are located on Queen’s Highway in Orlando House.

Minister Thompson said it was a pleasure to be there. The theme for the event, “Saving Our Communities” he said was fitting as it speaks to strong communities and the effect they have on functioning societies.

“Being an island nation, a big part of our culture really is rooted in our communities and building our communities.” It is important that effective policies are continuously developed, and everyone must work together.

“The government has to play its part to provide social support, to provide economic empowerment. The family has to provide its support when it comes to the spiritual and moral; and then we have the community where we have the church and civic groups like yourselves who have to come together.”

He said he was proud of the meaningful and commendable work that is being carried out.

“The LEAD Institute not only works to rehabilitate but to transform lives enabling those to impact the lives of others.”

As the Minister for Grand Bahama, he welcomed the organization to the island and committed to working with them to change lives for the people of Grand Bahama.

Also in attendance were: Ms. Phedra Rahming, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Social Services and Urban Development; Chief Superintendent of Police, Wendell Smith; Ivan Butler, District Superintendent, Ministry of Education; Troy Clarke, president and CEO of LEAD Institute along with senior police officers and representatives from the Royal Bahamas Defence Force.

Bringing brief remarks was Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, the Hon. Iram Lewis who commended the organization for the work they have done over the past 12 years assisting 3,000 young adults.

He also committed to working with the organization and said, “I believe that if we collaborate on a few programs to steer those at-risk youth in a positive direction, we will be successful in turning some lives around before it is too late.”