Marching on! Despite challenges, Montego Bay Boys and Girls' Club continues to make a difference

WESTERN BUREAU:Despite failing to attract the kind of financial support required to fund the programmes it offers to troubled youth in western Jamaica, Montego Bay Boys and Girls' Club (MBBGC) remains one of the only institutions of its kind to offer its services free of charge.

Founded in 1942, the historic non-governmental organisation currently has over 180 boys and girls on its roll, and depends solely on proceeds from the exploits of its marching band to pay its bills.

"We are determined to continue the mandate and the mission of the club," said Programmes Director David Earl. "We have seen a number of the boys and girls who have passed through this institution develop into nation builders, and that is what we will continue to do."

Earl is also a product of the institution, having started his journey through the ranks at the tender age of nine.

"We have been able to stay afloat, mainly through the band, which is very popular, and is hired to perform from time to time. Past beneficiaries and a few private groups have also actively contributed to our programmes," he added. "One of our greatest needs at this point is for a club bus because most of our earnings have to cover transportation, and if we [can reduce our] transportation [costs], we could save a lot," said Earl.

49-y-o Marching band

In 1962, 20 years after the MBBGC opened its doors on Fustic Road in Montego Bay, the marching band was formed and has since established a proud history, while participating in several international events.

The MBBGC seeks to provide adequate opportunities to enhance development in the field of sports, arts, skills training, and academics, as well as foster spiritual, cultural, moral, and social needs while promoting high standards of health, education, character, and citizenship.

Other activities include football, basketball, and netball, with cricket now a pasttime event.

Computer, homework, and remedial classes are offered on a daily basis, mainly supported by volunteer lecturers.

"I have been at the club since 1950, and while there have been some differences among our children, there has never been an incident of violence," Earl recalled.

"Where there are children, there will always be challenges, but the fact that all our boys and girls come to us at a tender age, they grow as a family. So it is not difficult to iron out differences."

Some prominent Jamaicans who have been past students of the club include the late Professor Rex Nettleford and Anthony 'Ruption' Williams of world-renowned reggae band Third World.