Kimberly Wright-Thurston

If the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement were a business, it would not be in the business of giving and would be among the world’s leading commercial enterprises. However, the Movement is not a business: It is a global independent voluntary service that impartially dispenses help everywhere and to anyone. The Bahamas Red Cross Society (BRS) stands on these principles. Our theme this year “Lights, Camera, Action” confirms that the BRS is always active, always being a light in the world, and always visible as a key player that consistently and expertly fosters harmony, collaboration, tolerance, and human connections on the world stage. Not many organizations have survived for nearly a century to remain at the forefront of expeditiously delivering care, compassion, and renewal to lives affected by hardships, disasters (natural or man-made), diseases, and shortages of food, shelter, clothing, peace, opportunities, and other human necessities. As The Bahamas continues to recover from the lasting effects of weather systems, particularly Hurricane Dorian, and from the debilitating years of the COVID-19 pandemic, the BRS is resolved to bridge the gaps and to assist in improving the well-being of individuals in the country. Accordingly, the BRS is resolute in its readiness to assist in stemming the negative consequences of current and looming global conditions such as climate change, economic distress, supply disruptions, conflicts, population and ethnic displacements, impoverishment, and mass migration. “Lights, Camera, Action” indicates that the BRS is prepared and willing to face the glare of its responsibilities; the BRS will continue to be active without regard to applause, reward, or fanfare; and the BRS will continue to perform capably with all stakeholders to make The Bahamas and the world better for human safety, security, and well-being. We are indeed grateful to all who participate in and sponsor the selfless mission and work of the BRS. The representatives of companies and individuals who are in attendance at this Ball, sharing the night, lights, and delights, are warmly welcomed to this forty-ninth iteration of this important BRS fund raising festivity.

I extend special thanks to this year’s hard working Ball Committee including Ball Volunteers for your dedicated efforts and unwavering support. Tonight’s honorees, The late Mrs. Cyndi Williams –Rahming ( whom I miss dearly), and CIBC First Caribbean International Bank, are to be commended and congratulated for their consistent , long standing and dedicated service and assistance to the Bahamas Red Cross. Special thanks is also extended to BTC our title sponsor for partnering with us. We are grateful and deeply indebted to you for your support. It is the action of the many that expend time, financial, and other resources, which infuses the BRS with the capacity to uplift the lives of others. It is the actions of many that light the way for the upkeep of local programmes of the BRS such as the After-School Programme, Assistance to Refugees, Disaster and Emergency Relief Assistance, Family Island Services, First-Aid Services, Junior Red Cross/Red Cross Youth, Meals-on-Wheels, School Milk Scheme, and Training.

Tonight, let’s celebrate and enjoy; let’s have a Ball. We have much to be thankful for and so much more to accomplish!

Warm Regards

Message from The Co-Chair