On Saturday evening, Feb. 8, over 300 people turned out to support Project Promise’s fourth annual silent auction fundraiser in support of its Caterpillar Project (TCP) program. The Havana Nights/Tropical Rainforest-themed event was held at Fort Frederik, and it featured an authentic Cuban experience with Cuban cuisine, antique cars, salsa dancing and a silent auction.
Officials from Project Promise again combined the Havana Nights fundraiser with its annual Youth Recognition event to showcase three high school students and spotlight their accomplishments over the last school year. St. Croix Educational Complex senior Chadiya Stevens, St. Croix Career and Technical Education Center (CTEC) senior Juan Batista and St. Croix Central High School senior Okeyno Cornelius were all honored Saturday as this year’s Project Promise Youth Recognition Award recipients.
They were selected to represent their respective schools by a panel from Project Promise after submitting an essay. Each student received a laptop computer, a Crucian Gold Pendant, a custom T-shirt from Cruzan Creations, an award certificate and a custom-made handcrafted plaque for their accomplishments over the last year.
Three participants from Project Promise’s Caterpillar Project were also recognized at this year’s event for their outstanding service during this past summer’s ‘Service Trip Across America’.
The proceeds from Havana Nights benefits Project Promise’s Caterpillar Project, a long-term program designed to make a significant difference in the lives of at-risk youth on St. Croix. The Caterpillar Project began on Jan. 25, 2016, with selected fifth graders from the Lew Muckle Elementary School, the support of the Department of Education and community partners.
