On Saturday, Feb. 13, hundreds of people logged in to support Project Promise’s fifth annual fundraiser in support of its Caterpillar Project program. This year’s event was a virtual experience, with the theme of “The Beautiful Beaches of Cuba.”
Attendees who purchased individual tickets enjoyed a unique Cuban experience with a 15-minute salsa lesson and performances from El Güiro de la Habana y Combinación Perfecta direct from Cuba.
Everyone who purchased a ticket to the Havana Nights virtual affair once again had the opportunity to win a trip for two to Havana and a five-night stay at an all-inclusive beach resort. This year’s lucky winner is Dr. G. Rita Dudley-Grant.
to Omarai Velasquez. (Submitted photo)
Officials from Project Promise once 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 Caliyah Helliger, St. Croix Career and Technical Education Center senior Omarai Velasquez and St. Croix Central High School senior Azani Claxton were all honored Saturday as this year’s Project Promise Youth Recognition Award recipients.
They were selected by school officials based upon criteria provided to them by Project Promise. Each student received a $500 scholarship, an award certificate and a custom-made handcrafted plaque for their accomplishments over the last year as well as gifts donated by Crucian Gold and Bougainvillea Perfumeria.
The proceeds from Havana Nights benefited Project Promise’s Caterpillar Project, along with its three other programs. The Caterpillar Project is 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, and it had the support of the Department of Education and community partners. Project Promise thanks the community, its sponsors and all the individuals who helped to make Havana Nights a success.
For more information about The Caterpillar Project, contact Resa O’Reilly at 340-513-0446. Project Promise is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of at-risk youth on St. Croix by providing empowerment initiatives, cultural programs and family services. To learn more about the organization, visit the website at www.projectpromisevi.com.
