The Saint Lucia National Youth Council is counting on its Golden Odyssey fundraising gala to help sustain scholarships, mental health initiatives and other programmes that President Bernell St Rose says its government subvention barely covers.
The Golden Odyssey President’s Ball is scheduled for Saturday, November 14, at the Sandals Grande Ballroom, with Justice Mario Michel, the Council’s first president and one of its founders, delivering the featured address.
St Rose said the Council hopes “the fundraiser can help sustain its work for six months to a year.”
With “funding options very limited,” she said the aim is to “ensure that we have the resources to respond to the needs of our young people.”
Proceeds will support programmes in education, agriculture, mental health and sports, as well as recreation and training for community groups. St Rose linked the fundraiser to her executive’s pledge of “restoring the pride and trust in the NYC.”
“For us to do that, we need funding,” she said.
Securing sponsorship has been difficult, St Rose noted, as some businesses had already finalised their annual budgets or committed funds to Christmas activities. The Council is encouraging businesses to purchase tables or sponsor tickets for young people who cannot afford to attend.
The gala will also showcase the work of district youth and sports councils. St Rose said Michel’s invitation recognises his role in establishing and first leading the organisation.
Tickets remain available. People unable to attend can still contribute through the Council’s donation account or online donation link, with contributions also accepted through the 4circles ticketing platform.
