In 1989, the Governor’s wife, Mrs. Annette Whittaker, had a wonderful idea. Knowing that the island had many talented ladies she decided to bring them together and at their first meeting The Anguilla Craft Group was formed. Since then the ladies of the ACG have gotten together to meet, exchange ideas and do creative crafts. Not only are handcrafts, friendships, smiles, laughter and camaraderie crafted there but dedication of their talents towards community service has been the main purpose of the ACG.

Twice a year the ACG raise funds by selling their crafts at the Soroptimist Christmas Fair and the ABC Flower Show. Since 1990 this diverse group of ladies has donated their profits to many local charities and youth activities. This year, in addition to their charity sales, the club produced a successful cookbook, Rum, Raisins and Recipes. This book contains a collection of delicious recipes gathered locally and from around the world. It is through the combined profits from their charity sales and cookbook sales that the ACG is proud to announce their Awards Program.

The Anguilla Craft Group Awards Program is available to all local organizations seeking assistance for specific programs and projects that benefit the youth and elderly of Anguilla. The purpose of the award is not to provide operating funding or general requests, but to support specific programs, or help to implement a plan with their award that the applying organizations will continue to support in the future.

These awards will be given at the discretion of the AGC for things such as supplies, respite care for the disabled and chronically ill, books, or approved items. Preference will be given to applications that utilize the funds most efficiently for the greatest number of people or that best serve an individual’s critical needs. No cash will be awarded directly to an individual or organization as the ACG will be responsible for directly paying the bill.

While there may be many worthwhile requests for the Anguilla Crafts Group Awards the ACG can only select a few each year that are in line with their mission and purpose. If anyone is interested and would like further information, the applications for these awards may now be picked up at the library. While the applications are self explanatory it is important to adhere to the deadline of April 22, 2008 since no application will be considered after that date.

The ladies of the ACG meet every Wednesday morning, behind the former Anguillian Crafts building, between the hours of 9:30 – 11:30. The ACG is open to all and they welcome anyone who enjoys sharing and donating their creative talent and their friendship for the good of the community. Cookbooks are still available and can be purchased directly from The AGC on Wednesday mornings.

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