The Anguilla Red Cross brought warmth and gratitude to the fore during its Volunteer Appreciation Ceremony on Wednesday, 3rd December 2025, held at the Office of His Majesty’s Governor. The gathering, hosted two days ahead of International Volunteer Day on 5th December 2025, drew dozens of volunteers, partner organisations, and dignitaries, including Her Excellency the Governor Julia Crouch and the Hon. Deputy Governor Perin Bradley.
It was an evening marked by heartfelt remarks, well-earned recognition, and a resounding reminder of the essential role volunteerism plays in Anguillian life.
Red Cross Director, Ms. Pamela Riley, opened the ceremony with a moving address that underscored both the breadth and the quiet constancy of need within the community.
“Although we are celebrating a little early this year, the sentiment remains the same,” she said. “We have a deep appreciation for the volunteers and organisations who give so much of themselves to support our community.” Ms. Riley reflected on a recent visit to Canada that deepened her understanding of the invisible nature of vulnerability. “It reinforced an important truth. Vulnerability does not have a look. It is not always visible, and it exists everywhere,” she told attendees.
Highlighting the organisation’s work beyond disaster response, she noted the Red Cross’ growing focus on mental health, youth outreach, and support for seniors. The relaunch of the Youth Red Cross, renewed visits to seniors’ homes, health fairs, and the training of hundreds of residents in lifesaving first aid all testify to a revitalised vision of service.
She emphasised the diversity within the organisation’s volunteer corps—“different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences”—a feature she believes strengthens the Red Cross’ reach across the island.
Above all, she urged volunteers to carry forward “the power of kindness”, a message she said she shares in every training and public talk.
Pastor Elmead Allen, Chair of the Anguilla Red Cross, echoed Ms Riley’s gratitude while charting some of the organisation’s significant gains over the past year.
“This occasion provides us with an important opportunity, not only to recognise service, but also to acknowledge the collective achievement that continues to strengthen our organisation and our community,” he said.
Pastor Allen highlighted the revitalised Youth Red Cross as one of the year’s most meaningful milestones. “Their enthusiasm and dedication are a source of great encouragement,” he noted.
Investment in training has also deepened the organisation’s capacity, with courses in orientation, practical first aid, and train-the-trainer programmes strengthening both volunteers and the wider public.
“Our work is far from finished,” Pastor Allen acknowledged, “however, we have established a solid foundation upon which we can continue to build.”
Her Excellency Governor Crouch delivered an address that blended humour, humility, and admiration for Anguilla’s volunteer community.
“In Anguilla, we know the value of community,” she began, referencing the island’s experiences with natural disasters, economic challenges, and rising violence. “These issues test our resilience, but they also reveal something profound.”
Governor Crouch recounted getting lost on a recent Saturday morning walk and unexpectedly joining a group of residents clearing litter in the heat.
“It reminded me that service is not just about the task, it is about that spirit of unity,” she said. “It’s the joy of giving back, and a sense of belonging to a purpose that’s bigger than ourselves.”
As patron of the Red Cross, the Governor lauded the organisation’s swift response following Hurricane Melissa and expressed delight at the relaunch of Youth in Action. She also commended other volunteer groups present — including ADRA, the We Care Organisation, AXA Care Food Delivery, and representatives from the American University of Anguilla and the New Anglia Medical School — for their contributions to the island’s wellbeing.
“All of you are part of the golden threads that weave together strength in Anguilla,” she said.
A key part of the evening was the acknowledgement of volunteers who recently completed essential Red Cross training.
Orientation — the foundation of every volunteer’s journey — was recognised first. “This training ensures that each volunteer understands the mission they are joining, the communities they will serve, and the values that guide every action we take,” Ms Riley explained.
Participants of the Practical First Aid course were also honoured for acquiring lifesaving skills they carry into their homes, workplaces, and communities.
Train-the-Trainer programme graduates, along with those who completed the advanced master trainer component, received special recognition. These individuals, Ms Riley noted, “become multipliers,” expanding the Red Cross’ ability to deliver high-quality training across the island.
Two Community Awards were presented this year — one to an individual and one to an organisation — celebrating service that extends beyond the Red Cross.
The 2025 Individual Community Award went to Mr Rudy Webster, a figure described as embodying “selflessness in every sense of the word”. His commitment to youth basketball— from coaching teams at multiple primary schools to refereeing games, organising tournaments, and championing opportunities for girls — has shaped both the sport and the lives of hundreds of young athletes.
The 2025 Organisation Community Award was presented to the We Care Organisation, recognised for its tireless work supporting vulnerable individuals seeking medical care abroad, and for hosting annual children’s events that bring joy during the Christmas season.
Their compassion, Ms Riley said, “shines through everything they do”.
Volunteers working directly with youth were also highlighted. Ms Riley spoke of the Youth Red Cross’ weekly sessions at the Albena Lake-Hodge Comprehensive School: “We have approximately, on average, 14 active participants… we’re really proud to have started the youth.”
As the ceremony drew to a close, Ms Riley offered special thanks to ADRA for their ongoing collaboration and expressed genuine gratitude for all who attended.
“Your service, your compassion, and your willingness to give your time truly make a difference,” she told volunteers. “This evening is for you, to honour your commitment and to celebrate your achievements.”
The night ended not only as a celebration of volunteerism, but as a reaffirmation of what binds Anguilla together: kindness, service, and the enduring belief that community is strengthened when people give of themselves.
By Janissa Fleming
