Cayman Islands Further Education Centre (CIFEC) students participated in the annual Golf Cart Building Project sponsored by the Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman during two consecutive Saturdays, 16 and 23 April.

The golf cart was built under the supervision of Project Manager Tom Sperandeo and the final touches were completed in preparation for auction in early June. The proceeds will support two charities: Feed our Future and Francis Bodden Children’s Home.

The Golf Cart Building Project adds to the programme of activities which the students say benefits them in terms of team skills, problem solving, managing priorities, effective communication, self-confidence and enjoying something new in the knowledge that they are giving back to their community.

“I like working now on my own but found that team work is good too,” said student Dwight Barnes. “One benefit is meeting people I never knew and getting along with them.”

Minister for Education, Hon. Tara Rivers, who visited students while they were undertaking the project in Governor’s Harbour, praised all involved for completing the project.

“I applaud our CIFEC students and the other volunteers, organisers and sponsors for their community spirit and willingness to help those less fortunate, in such a unique and fun way,” she said. “As Minister for Education, I am especially happy about our students’ participation because I think this experience teaches them important values that will benefit them not only in their studies but also in their personal and professional journeys, and they also receive the satisfaction that comes with helping others.”

Career Services Manager at CIFEC Heather-Ann Cahill said it had been a pleasure observing the students using their skills and learning new techniques to complete the tasks at hand.

“This event is an excellent demonstration of a well-known company, volunteer experts, parents and young people coming together to make a positive difference,” she said. “The support from Tom and the Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman is priceless and on behalf of Career Services, CIFEC staff and Minister Rivers, we thank them for assisting our young people.”