A fund has been established at the Anguilla Community Foundation to support the development of the Tae-Kwon-Do Youth Initiative. The Anguilla Tae-Kwon-Do Club has been enhancing students’ self-esteem, developing social skills and imparting the graceful mind and body control from white belt through black belts over the last 15 years.

L-R: Carolle Devonish, Emmmanuel Laud, Melinda Goddard and Val Banks

Today, three 1-hour classes are conducted each week for over 140 students in The Valley. Exemplary behaviour at home and at school are pre-requisites for advancement in the programme. The Initiative hopes to draw additional children and youth into the programme with the support of community donors.

“After observing the transformation of many children into respectful youth over the years, I believe we can take an important step toward community security, and our future prosperity, by investing in even three students from each school who could benefit most from being sponsored in this programme,” said Melinda Goddard, who brought the idea of the Fund to the Club founder and president, Emmanuel Laud, known as “Sir” to his students.

“I will work with the Education Department to find the children,” said Mr. Laud, who made various inquiries in preparation for the Fund to be established. “I spoke to some parents, and they were so excited for the opportunity to help their children.”

“The Foundation will set up a Tae-Kwon-Do Fund so others can donate and keep the students enrolled over time. As funds are contributed, grants will be made to sponsor students registered in the program,” said Carrolle Devonish of the Anguilla Community Foundation.

“The NBA is excited about the initiative and appreciates being invited to support it,” said E. Valentine Banks, CEO of the National Bank of Anguilla. “Since smaller increments are needed over time for uniforms, classes, belts, exam fees and such, a dedicated donations account for the Tae-Kwon-Do Club will facilitate ongoing access to the grants on behalf of each student. People can see this as a tangible programme with tangible results and accountability!”

Ms. Goddard and her husband, Terry Brady, are the initial donors to the Fund for the first six students representing two primary schools. “This is just a start. There are six other primary schools and the high school, with a goal for at least three students from each school,” said Goddard. “We hope others will soon join us toward this goal and to recognize Mr. Laud for his dedication and leadership as a vibrant role model in our community.”

The Anguilla Community Foundation, founded in 1999, is the island’s charitable foundation providing grants and aid to support community programmes and issues on Anguilla. For information regarding the Tae-Kwon-Do programme, contact Mr. Laud at 235-6267. To sponsor a student through the Fund, please contact the Anguilla Community Foundation at 497-2432.

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