This week I had the opportunity to attend a ribbon cutting ceremony at a school supported by the Sandals Foundation in Ochi Rios Jamaica. Tucked away beside a tiny church was the Boscobel Public school. You could hear the school before you saw it, stuffed full of more than 250 children dancing, laughing, and brimming over with joy and happiness. All the kids, in Grades One through Six, were excited by the visitors from far away gathered in their tiny school to celebrate the opening of their brand new computer lab.
The children put on dances and plays for the visitors, speeches were heard and thanks were given. Then the ceremonial ribbon was cut and the computer lab all in one large air-conditioned room was officially opened. A momentous occasion.
It was heart warming to be able to steal a few minutes with some very grateful kids as they just acted like themselves. Enjoying some vanilla, pistachio or rum and raisin ice cream.
Showing us their classrooms where they work and learn each day.
Stopping to show off for those smiles and huge personalities for the camera.
A few even mugged for photos with me.
When I asked this young man if I could take his picture?
His response was “Yes please Miss.”; and with that one look, he stole my heart. 
I’m grateful to have had this opportunity to meet these incredible kids, for the chance to donate to the Sandals Foundation, and for the important work Sandals Resorts does to support their own communities. They are harnessing the power and passion of the Sandals and Beaches brand to invest in their own communities, and in the process creating better learning environments for the children of the Caribbean. It’s inspiring to see the love and dedication the entire Sandals family has for supporting and giving back to their own communities.
For more information on the Sandals Foundation or how you can help, find them on social on Twitter and Facebook.
Such an amazing opportunity,i am so happy to got to be part of it.So many wonderful young people to meet.
A beautiful post, I enjoyed every bit of it. What an incredible experience to be a part of. I love the fact that Sandals helps in the communities. Education is so important and we take it for granted here, these children are truly grateful to be able to attend school.
This is such a wonderful opportunity!
This is so great for the children. I didn’t know Sandals take part in supporting the communities. Thanks for sharing.
The amazing thing was that it was fantastic for me too. I loved the opportunity to get into the community, meet those children and pay it forward a tiny bit. Thanks for stopping by and commenting!
That is truly an incredible experience. It is nice to know large companies such as Sandals help support communities like that. Thanks for sharing your journey
For me it’s just one more reason to pick a Sandals or Beaches Resort when travelling. I adore that they give back to their communities.