Taj Donates Sports Gear To Communities

THE ST. LUCIA MIRROR

Article by: Reginald Andrew

During a recent seven-day visit to the island, Taj Weekes' role as a Goodwill Ambassador for a division of the United Nations was extended to several communities in St. Lucia. The St. Lucian born international reggae artist also shares a passion for football, and through his US based non-profit organization, They Often Cry Outreach (TOCO), he donated a range of football gear, uniforms and balls to various district clubs on the island.

TOCO was founded by Weekes and is dedicated to improving the lives of underprivileged children in the Caribbean and beyond through sport, enrichment, educational and wellness programmes. At a TOCO Soccer briefing held late last month, the programme was endorsed by Donovan Williams, permanent secretary in the department of youth and sports. Other distinguished persons at the press briefing included Dr. Stephen King, chairman of RISE, Richard Peterkin, chairman of the Olympic Committee and George Eugene, Diabetic Association representative.

In his comments, Williams said, "Partnership is crucial… and that is why we can work alongside many different organizations using whatever skills they have to advance the cause of sport." Responding to the accolades that were being showered on him at the briefing, Weekes declared, "This goes to show that St. Lucia is a great place… because I did not become the person that I am living in a bubble. I mingled with lots of people and the people that I met were positive people, and that is reflected in the person that I am today." He added: "With this little initiative here, if we can help some people realize their potential and live the way that they should live, then they can help give meaning to what I am doing."

TOCO's soccer programmes are being implemented to empower schools and community groups with the supplies and support needed to teach basic soccer skills and organize neighborhood tournaments. In addition, the goals of the programme include addressing the accelerated rate of diabetes throughout the Caribbean as well as to provide a fun, healthy community-based activity.

Weekes presents football gear to president of Allez, Jermaine Corsinie, at the Anse La Raye playing field.On his final lap, Weekes donated gear to the Allez Sports and Cultural Club of Anse La Raye and also presented supplies to the I CAN [I Can Change a Nation] youth group from Soufriere. He plans to return to the island later this year to continue "the mission of giving." As he says, "There is great joy in giving back something to your community."