Construction Development Company Projetech emerged as top donor in the recently held Corporate Charity Challenge (CCC) - a golf tournament staged to raise funds for charity, including the Ashley’s Learning Center (ALC), in Providenciales.
Ashley's Learning Center is a vital institution dedicated to supporting children with mild to moderate special needs. In recent times the institution has garnered crucial backing from the corporate community in Turks and Caicos, while steadily advancing its mission of fostering inclusivity and enhancing the quality of education for special needs students.
Recent collaborations with businesses, community organizations, and benefactors have not only elevated its profile but also enabled essential infrastructural improvements.
Founded nine years ago, ALC operates as a non-profit organization that caters to 18 students in its day program with a faculty of 10 dedicated educators.
Its Chairman of the Board, Ben Avenant, emphasized the board’s establishment in 2020 as a pivotal step towards formalizing the organization, streamlining operations, and increasing outreach to funding partners.
“Our goal is to work alongside the government to address the special needs agenda on the island,” he stated.
This year, the Corporate Charity Challenge emerged as a significant fundraising initiative that brought together businesses committed to giving back to the community. Projetech led the challenge, which raised an unprecedented $96,000, marking the most funds ever collected during a charity golf event in the 32-year history of the Royal Turks and Caicos Golf Club. The funds were allocated to two beneficiaries: Brayton Hall and Ashley’s Learning Center, with $66,000 specifically directed to ALC to address critical needs.
Murad Muhammad, a CCC board member, highlighted the importance of supporting projects with tangible outcomes.
“The funds raised have directly impacted ALC, allowing for essential repairs such as replacing the roof and enhancing safety and security measures,” he noted. The school’s leaking roof, previously a recurring issue, was repaired through this initiative, creating a more secure and comfortable learning environment for students and staff.
The fundraising success was further amplified by the generosity of the business community. Entry fees for the golf tournament, set at $2,500 per team, combined with a matching donation initiative, significantly bolstered the final amount. A notable contribution came from an anonymous donor who pledged $20,000, contingent on it being matched, which the community successfully achieved.
Dave Douglas of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Golf Course, and who is another key supporter, described the Corporate Charity Challenge as more than just a golf tournament.
“The event is a celebration of community spirit, with businesses participating in both the competition and related social activities,” he explained. Beyond raising funds, the challenge fostered a sense of unity and purpose among the island’s corporate entities.
Douglas pointed out also that Kyle Camarro of Projetech, played a pivotal role in the raising of the funds, for which he expressed much gratitude.
The funds raised have facilitated not only infrastructural improvements but also investments in resources to enhance the educational experience for students.
According to Avenant, Renu Energy, along with 7 other corporate and private entities are part of our Monthly Pledge program. The others are: Grant Thornton, HAB Group, Mere Financial, Turks and Caicos Banking Company, The Source, Carol Gartland, Interhealth Canada Construction & Services Ltd. He pointed out that each of the donors give a set amount per month in support of the school’s operations.
Principal Shelrica Banton expressed gratitude for the growing awareness and support ALC has received.
“The backing from corporate sponsors and community members has been heartwarming. People are recognizing the importance of our institution and stepping forward to volunteer their time and expertise,” she shared.
ALC’s vision extends beyond its current achievements. The school is exploring plans to expand its capacity to accommodate more students and develop additional programs. The leadership also maintains a close partnership with the Special Education Needs Services (SCNS) Department, participating in conferences and events to remain aligned with best practices in special education.
Upcoming fundraising events, including the “Santa in the Streets” initiative in December and the annual concert in April, are expected to further rally community support. These initiatives are vital for sustaining and expanding the school’s operations.
As ALC transitions into its next decade, its leadership remains focused on creating a more inclusive society for individuals with special needs. Through the unwavering support of the corporate community and dedicated individuals, Ashley’s Learning Center is poised to continue its impactful journey of empowerment and inclusion in Turks and Caicos.
In the meantime, Avenant is inviting other potential donors in the Turks and Caicos Islands to join the program. Interested donors can lend their support by contacting: chairperson@ashleyslearningcenter.org, or donate to the school’s RBC account: EXTRAORDINARY MINDS ASHLEY’S LEARNING CENTER; Transit #: 05395; Account #: 4019444.
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