November 2023
There's power in partnership
By Glen Herbert
There was a social post recently that caught my eye. It's the image here of Simon Bluteau of United Fitness with members of the Threadworks team. Simon had offered a special rate to Threadworks, so they've all been going there and working out together.

How great is that? It's a small thing maybe, on the face of it, but for me it's significant of something bigger, of the web of connections between all these various people. On the reasons that the image struck my eye is because we've worked with both Simon and Jessica on programs, both in the past an ongoing, for youth on island. We funded summer camps with United Fitness and the Hub, under Jessica Jaja's direction, to great effect. We've also sponsored Positive Vibes, an annual production by the Hub and hosted at De Reef. We've just recently launched a partnership with United Fitness to offer eight months of physical training and mentorship to island youth.

I think sometime we don't see these kinds of connections between people and organizations, but they're there. Everyone works together, no one operates alone. I recently sat on a board meeting of the CFSVG run by Felicity Harley. I was on the call presenting about the GI projects and initiatives, and there were others presenting on the work of Action Bequia, the STEM initiative at CFSVG, and others who are close to programs that have been managed on island over the years.

Again, it's a reminder that we are all connected through the work we do, the people we know, and the influence we can have. And that's the real power of everything we do. We're strong because of all the relationships we share, which you can see throughout the island. It's there at Positive Vibes and along the Belmont Walkway; it's there in all the children learning at the island schools, and Fritz taking out the junior sailors.

There will be a lot happening the next month partly because of the season. The youth fitness program will be getting up and running at full steam. We'll be in the Learning Center, and at the sailing program, providing learning, fun, and mentorship to youth. We'll be providing hot lunches to students in Port Elizabeth, thanks to the work of Ms. Primus. We'll be distributing cooking gas and food vouchers. We're forever proud of our ability to help support the dental clinic in Paget Farm under the direction of Dr. Jack Dee.

These things help the recipients in ways that may not always be obvious at first. There is food, and lessons, and medical help. But it's not just that. Every interaction is significant of that web of relationships. Each interaction is a reminder that we're here, we're working together, and we're not alone.
For more on any of the programs this season or throughout the year, reach out to me at glen.herbert@grenadinesinitiative.org.
Best,
Glen Herbert
Executive Director
Email: glen.herbert@grenadinesinitiative.org
Ph: 289 439 7052
Threadworks launches a new line
Another encouraging example of energy and optimism on the island is the progress of Bequia Threadworks. They show in practice how the abundant talent that exists within the community can be harnessed to create meaningful livelihoods.

In an effort to offset the seasonal lull in tourism on Bequia and to create a viable social enterprise, they launched their new brand NOYO which is now available online for global shipment. You can shop NOYO online at www.noyobequia.com. NOYO is an ethical and sustainable fashion brand producing effortless resortwear on the island of Bequia in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

NOYO was created under the umbrella nonprofit and social enterprise, Bequia Threadworks, whose mission is to promote economic freedom and women's empowerment through ethical employment and training in fashion and manufacturing. 

Into The Wild—NOYO's first online collection—infuses the relaxed atmosphere of Bequia life with the lush tropics of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. It is thoughtfully designed in house using organic, natural and low-impact fabrics and produced by their team of pattern makers and seamstresses.

Shop NOYO online at www.noyobequia.com and get a little piece of Bequia delivered straight to your home anywhere in the world.
The heartwarming work of Chappy House
By Tylisha Miller
Dogs are often referred to as man's best friend, but unfortunately, not all dogs are lucky enough to have a loving home. In many parts of the world, stray dogs roam the streets, searching for food and shelter. But on the small island of Bequia in the Caribbean, one woman is making a big difference in the lives of these furry companions.

Ngaere Durling is the founder of Chappy House, a nonprofit organization dedicated to finding homes for dogs, while also providing them with necessary medical care. With the help of her team, including Keon Edwards and volunteer "paw mother" Naja Corbett, Ngaere has changed the lives of countless dogs on the island.

Chappy House is not just a shelter for dogs, it's a home. Ngaere and her team have created a safe and loving environment for these animals, who may have otherwise faced a life on the streets. The dogs at Chappy House are not just taken care of physically, but emotionally as well. They are given love and attention, and in return, they show their gratitude with wagging tails and affectionate licks.

But Chappy House is more than just a place for dogs to stay temporarily. Ngaere's ultimate goal is to find permanent homes for these animals. And with her dedication and hard work, she has successfully done so for over 15 dogs in just the last month.

One of the main ways Chappy House helps these animals is by spaying and neutering them. This routine medical procedure not only helps control pet overpopulation, but it also prevents medical and behavioral problems from developing in the future. By providing this service, Chappy House is not only helping individual dogs, but also making a positive impact on the community as a whole.

Chappy House also provides other necessary medical care for the dogs in their care. This includes worming and other medications, as well as trips to the mainland for long-term treatment when needed. All of these services are made possible through donations and the hard work of Ngaere and her team.

Currently, there are 12 dogs being housed at Chappy House, including seven puppies that will soon be up for adoption once they have been vaccinated. But not all dogs at Chappy House are able to be adopted. There are five strays who have become permanent residents at the shelter, due to various reasons such as health issues or behavioral problems. These dogs may have once been unwanted or neglected, but at Chappy House, they have found a loving home where they will be cared for until the end of their days.

Chappy House has also been a driving force in educating the community on responsible pet ownership. Through their work, they have helped change the mindset of many locals who may have previously viewed dogs as just another animal on the island. Now, people are more aware of the importance of spaying and neutering their pets, as well as providing them with proper care and love.

Ngaere and her team are truly a blessing to the dogs of Bequia. Their love and dedication towards these animals is heartwarming and inspiring. Their work not only helps individual dogs, but also has a ripple effect on the entire community, creating a more compassionate and responsible society.

So, if you ever find yourself on the island of Bequia, be sure to stop by Chappy House and meet some of their furry residents. And if you're looking for a new furry friend, consider adopting from Chappy House. Not only will you be giving a dog a loving home, you'll also be supporting an incredible cause.

Thank you, Chappy House, for all that you do for our four-legged friends. Your selfless and tireless efforts are making a huge difference in the lives of these animals, and we can't thank you enough for keeping them in mind.
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