A force to be reckoned with is an apt description for the founders of the non-profit group Women in Action for the Needy and Destitute (Wand).
Humbled by the recognition of their efforts to serve the less fortunate, needy and vulnerable in society, Wand says they have been inspired to accomplish even more in the coming year, after they were presented with the Medal for the Development of Women (Gold) for community service at this year's national Independence Award Ceremony on August 31.
The group was deeply appreciative of the award, which was first given in 2011.
Speaking during their monthly meeting, Wand President Mona Khan quoted anthropologist Margaret Mead who said, "Never underestimate the ability of a small group of thoughtful, committed individuals to change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."
Khan received the award from President Anthony Carmona on behalf of the group which includes secretary Allison Harford, treasurer Michal Andrews, public relations officer Gloria Nelson, and directors Jan Ryan, Anna Bonnin, Penny Elias, Wendy Voss, Nicole Galt and Karen Lee Lum.
Acknowledging the hard work, dedication and commitment of the "Wandies," Khan highlighted efforts by the members who continue to serve communities and individuals in need.
However, she was equally quick to extend gratitude to the "many loyal donors, supporters and contributors" who had assisted Wand during its 15-year existence.
Founded in 1998, the non-profit, charitable organisation has successfully completed numerous projects over the years including rehabilitation centres, vocational schools, homes for the elderly and has also provided financial assistance to deserving individuals for medical expenses and house repairs.
Among their list of projects was equipping the All In One Child Development Centre, Beetham, which was visited by Prince Charles in 2000. Their second and largest project was building and furnishing a vocational training centre at La Brea for battered and abused women and children.
That centre was opened by former prime minister Patrick Manning in 2002.
The third project was the construction and equipping of a vocational school for more than 100 displaced and challenged youths in Tunapuna, at a cost of $2 million. The school was opened by former president George Maxwell Richards in 2007.
Partnering with the Eternal Light Community who manages this facility, Khan explained that Wand often sought the services and guidance of existing NGOs who possess the knowledge and wherewithal to operate such centres.
Participants benefit from a wide range of subjects which include welding, plumbing, computer literacy, music, hairdressing, woodwork, catering, metal work, English and Math.
In 2007, Wand sprung into action after they recognised the need for a residential drug rehabilitation centre catering exclusively to women and was able to lease three acres of land from Palo Seco Agricultural Estates Ltd to construct the Wand Centre which is run by New Life Ministries.
It can accommodate up to 30 women at one time, and is completely sustainable as the residents grow their own produce, in addition to rearing chickens and fish for consumption.
The Coora Camp in south Trinidad which consists of four buildings on nine acres of land–and which was donated to Wand in 2010 with the support of United Way–has seen Wand provide New Life Ministries with a building to use as a transition home for residents of the Palo Seco Centre, and another building to the Living Water Community to use as a home for the elderly.
A retreat center is currently being established at the camp, and that will be managed by the Eternal Light Community.
Free literacy classes are also done by Wand's members on a voluntary basis, and anyone willing to assist can contact Wand via their Facebook page: WAND Foundation.