Powell
IN HIS capacity as chairman of the Fletchers Land Management and Benevolent Society, Carlton Powell said it is a desire to initiate a change in his community that motivates him to give freely of himself.
"I want to see some doctors and some teachers rise out of the community. The youths need to be able to boast about the growth of Fletchers Land," Mr. Powell continued.
Volunteer Today: Why did you take up the mantle to be a leading figure for positive development in Fletcher's Land?
Carlton Powell: Voluntary service is the highest rewarding service.
VT: What do you mean?
CP: To devise an initiative and to see people respond to it positively and be edified by it is a precious feeling that gives the kind of satisfaction that has to be cherished.
VT: Do you think that a social worker like yourself is in a position of influence within the community?
CP: A teacher's accomplishment is teaching a lesson, a manager's accomplishment is making sure that his subordinates do their job, but a social leader's positive accomplishment is to empower the community. While I unite the people, through my same position I can divide them.
VT: Do you intend to always give of yourself freely to Fletchers Land?
CP: It is very challenging. At times, I get frustrated but I must go on. This morning I left home with $110 in my pocket and a student asked me to assist with funds to get to school. I gave him $100 and kept $10 for myself. While I was happy to help, the Government and corporate Jamaica need to assist community-based organisations with greater financial support.
J.C.
