Minister of Education, Training and Employment, the Hon. Rolston Anglin has cited the importance of strengthening the connection between youth and seniors.
He was representing Community Affairs and Housing Minister, the Hon. Mike Adam, MBE at a 24 October Older Persons Month weekend retreat reception at the Reef Resort in East End. The event was hosted by the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) with assistance from sponsors including Rotary Sunrise.
Noting that young people have much to learn from seniors, Minister Anglin said “If we are to build a stronger community, it is essential to keep a connection between both groups.”
He promised that his Ministry will work with the Ministry of Community Affairs and Housing to expand an existing programme wherein seniors visit schools to share traditional Caymanian culture, positive values and special skills.
“This move will also help seniors to better understand our youngsters, thereby bridging the generation gap and helping to eliminate some of the social ills impacting the society,” Mr. Anglin said.
Citing seniors who already volunteer in this capacity with young children and high school students, he added, “This is an important role that our seniors can continue to play.”
The Minister further lauded the 60-plus senior participants for sacrifices made to the community over the years. “I personally thank each of you for your contributions to building our country and shaping its development,” he said.
In turn, DCFS Deputy Director Alicia ’Jen’ Dixon thanked the Older Persons Month Committee for organising the events, and also expressed her own appreciation to the seniors for their hard work in nation-building. She told all concerned that the annual series of events kept important traditions alive.
Rev. Mary Graham of the George Town Anglican Church also reminded the seniors that ageing is a blessing. “Society sometimes tries to tell you that there is something wrong with ageing, but it is the process that leads us back to our Creator,” she said.
She encouraged participants to enjoy the here and now to the fullest, and urged, “At every stage of life, we are called to embrace life in all its abundance.”
The Rev. Louis Sully from East End United Church also ministered to the seniors, who went on to enjoy a buffet style dinner and an evening of dancing, with additional entertainment from Barefoot Man.
