Organisation for retirees opens its doors

An organisation to recognise and highlight the skills and experience of retired persons, while providing them with an opportunity to continue to contribute to the development of the country, was officially launched today at the Knutsford Court Hotel in Kingston.

Dubbed 'Caribbean Community of Retired Persons' (CCRP) Limited, the non-profit membership organistion is the first comprehensive body for retired persons in the Caribbean. It targets persons 50 years and older, those who are retired, or preparing for retirement.

Speaking at the launch, honorary board member of CCRP and former Governor General, His Excellency the Most Honourable Professor Sir Kenneth Hall, lauded the organisers of the initiative, saying that appropriate programmes must be available to acknowledge and realise the full potential of retirees, while mobilising them to contribute to Jamaica's development.

"It is widely acknowledged that retired persons are healthier, more educated, professionally experienced and capable of contributing to the social and cultural capital of the country," he said.

Betterment

Sir Kenneth noted that the creation of the organisation was intended to be one of advocacy for Jamaica's seniors and that the group should provide an opportunity for the retired, or soon to be, to share their vast store of talent, skill and wisdom for the betterment of the nation.

"The organisation will tap into the acknowledged characteristics of senior citizens in order to capatilise on their willingness to be involved in serving as role models. They will be encouraged to lend their support to sporting organisations, at homework centres and various non-governmental organisations, which are providing invaluable services to our society," he added.

CCRP chairman, Lascelles Chin, noted that seniors should be empowered to make an even greater contribution to the country and region.

"In fact, because of their traditional money-management skills, persons in this mature age group can contribute greatly in helping us to function within the economic constraints which we are facing," he said, adding that CCRP will promote self-reliance, and national and regional development and unity.

Founder and chief executive officer of CCRP, Jean Lowrie Chin, noted that the body would, over time, be expanded across the Caribbean region and to the diaspora.

She said that some of the concerns and needs that would be looked at are environmental safety, building guidelines, legislation dealing with pensions and taxation, as well as social activities.

Members of CCRP can benefit from discounts and special offers from corporate partners; free seminars and workshops on topics such as wellness, retirement planning, learning and leisure; and professional networking to provide opportunities for learning.

For additional information, persons may visit the organisation's website at www.ccrponline.org; or the offices located at 6 Kingsway, Kingston 10; or call 926-6740/926-8676.