YouthNet Charity Will Cease Operations
After 25 years of service, YouthNet will cease its operations, with the charity saying that economic climate and the unprecedented impact of COVID-19 has led to the decision to wind up.
A spokesperson said, “It is with deep regret that, after 25 years of service within the community, YouthNet will cease its operations.
“YouthNet was established in 1996, and quickly became a valued partner with schools island-wide, providing all levels of mentoring ranging from traditional mentoring and peer mentoring, sports mentoring to work-site mentoring programmes.
“The charity also partnered with several other non-profit organisations within Bermuda’s community in its efforts to meaningfully impact and transform the lives of our residents.
Former Executive Director of the charity, Clare Mello stated: “For the past 25 years, YouthNet has served thousands of students. Through building meaningful relationships, hundreds of volunteer mentors have worked to bring out the best in our students by providing them with the encouragement and support needed to succeed. We sincerely thank them for their dedication and continued efforts over the years.”
“Bermuda’s economic climate and fundraising has been challenging for the non-profit sector. These factors, coupled with the unprecedented impact of COVID-19, has led to the decision to wind up.
“The Board and former staff of YouthNet are proud of the accomplishments achieved throughout the community over the years. It has been an honor to be able to serve Bermuda, and it would not have been possible, without the participation and support of the many volunteers, school officials, donors, community partners, and the YouthNet team.
“Enquiries can be directed to Clare Mello at youthnetbdainfo@gmail.com.”
Very sad. Is this the first domino?
This is a major loss of a programme committed to developing young people. In the 25 years they have served, they probably positively impacted 25,000 lives – think about that.
Having a mentor is often the difference between feeling lost or connected. As the reality of how funding is distributed in Bermuda is revealed with COVID 19 and now questioned through our Black Lives Matter movement, one must ask the obvious:
Why do we continue to fund our very expensive yet broken public educational system and stand by as organisations like Youthnet dissolve?
Is Youthet simply collateral damage to an entrenched system of wealth creation for a few?
As a former YouthNet mentor, I am sorry to hear this news but it is not surprising considering the current conditions. YouthNet did a great service for many of our young people and I am proud to have made a small contribution to the organization. Clare and her many teams, supporters deserve a special thank you for their dedication.
The graduates can save the programme. Step up and win the battle for future generations.