Vassell

Anglican Deaconess Dr Rachele Evelyn Vernon, self-described womanist and supporter of the Jamaican women's movement, is scheduled to deliver the message at the 25th anniversary church service of the Women's Resource and Outreach Centre (WROC) this weekend.

The anniversary church service, to be held Sunday at the Webster Memorial United Church on Half-Way Tree Road in St Andrew, is intended to commemorate and give thanks for 25 years of survival, WROC chairperson Linnette Vassell said.

Vernon, who is attached to the St Mary the Virgin Church and who has been involved with the centre since its inception, said: "WROC has been an inspiration as a community-based organisation that has actually managed to involve the people of the community in their own liberation."

Tomorrow WROC will host an open day and exposition to which all are invited. An afternoon concert will feature MC Erroll Lee and Everton Pesseoa of the Bare Essentials band, as well as local community talent.

Visitors are also invited to patronise a farmers' market and lunch programme tomorrow. Proceeds are in aid of WROC's advocacy programmes.

WROC was formed on March 8, 1983. Friday's birthday celebrations and Sunday's anniversary church service will mark a quarter century of working for the development of women and their children in Jamaica.

Significant difference

Within the past two decades and a half, the centre has implemented several projects which have made a significant difference in the lives of the families in its client communities. These include health and wellness programmes for the women of Lyndhurst/Beechwood and nearby communities, as well as livelihood and personal development programmes. Its medical clinics, homework centre, CXC classes and livelihood training, with an emphasis on sustainable development, have impacted the lives of many families.

"Having weathered the challenges since opening our doors at 47 Beechwood Avenue on March 8, 1983, we invite all of Jamaica to celebrate with us as we commemorate this very special milestone," Vassell said.

WROC has also been active in advocacy as it seeks to increase the number of women who hold positions of leadership in Jamaican society. Current projects include research into how boards are appointed in Jamaica.

In St Thomas, the organisation has been working to train chicken and cash crop farmers in business development as well and in Manchester and Kingston.