U.S. Embassy organizes Cross-Cultural Community Service Day in Linden

Last Updated on Saturday, 26 December 2015, 21:01 by GxMedia

GEORGETOWN – The U.S Embassy’s Youth Action Network (YAN) teamed up with partners for a lively day of community service in Linden under the theme:  “Ready to Serve, Ready to Lead.” 

The YAN members joined together with U.S. military cadets from the Cultural Understanding and Language Proficiency Program (CULP) and U.S. Peace Corps Volunteers.  A total of 76 volunteers completed three different service projects, all of which were identified by Linden-based Peace Corps Volunteer Wendy Kogel. 

The first service activity took place in Retrieve, across from the Brittelbank Daycare Center, where volunteers joined community members to clear overgrown bush to begin work on a playfield for the children. 

The second service project involved painting murals on the walls of McKenzie Sports Club that have positive messages for the community, including “say no to drugs” and “keep Linden litter-free.” 

The last activity brought several disadvantaged Linden youths out to the Bayrock Community Center (the Basin) in Wismar for a cross-cultural, sports diplomacy exchange.  Guyanese and U.S. youths shared in games from both countries, while emphasizing the importance of good sportsmanship, teamwork, and exercise.  Ambassador Hardt and Embassy staff joined the volunteers in Linden to support their civic engagement.

This is the first major community service project organized by the Embassy’s Youth Action Network.  The Network gives motivated youths an opportunity to participate in networking and training activities to enhance their leadership skills, professionalism, and implementation of community service and development projects.