You can help BHCT build new hospital

Every resident in Bermuda can play his part with the building of the new hospital.

The Bermuda Hospital Charitable Trust is well on its way to reaching its goal of $40 million, but still needs your help as the KEMH Redevelopment Project heads towards the home stretch.

That is why it has created a Community Engagement Committee for the Why it Matters campaign.

The Committee will help provide guidance on activities which will help with both fundraising and awareness of the project.

With just over a year until the completion of the hospital, there will be special events to help reach its goal.

Wendy Augustus, executive director of BHCT, said in a press release: “The response to the campaign thus far has been very heartening and we are extremely grateful that we have been able to raise $27.5 million, however, there are additional funds that need to be raised.

“The success of Why it Matters — and the future of healthcare in Bermuda — depends on the support of everyone on island. We are excited to implement the initiatives set forth by the Community Engagement Committee to reach the community in creative ways.”

The Community Engagement Committee currently consists of individuals representing a variety of organisations, including: Judith Hall-Bean, assistant Cabinet secretary; Ralph Richardson, past commodore Royal Bermuda Yacht Club; Zuri Darrell, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity; Dwayne Trott, Bermuda Sea Cadets; Cecil Hendrikson, vice president of the Bermuda Basketball Association; and Kalmar Richards, principal at CedarBridge Academy.

Laura Lyons, BHCT’s community development officer will liaise with the committee on behalf of BHCT.

To encourage a philanthropic mindset amongst the island’s younger generation, outreach to the community will include a strong focus on primary and high school students across the island.

A Youth Committee has been formed and these young people will be able to spread the message about the Why it Matters campaign and provide guidance in the best ways to reach and educate their peers.

Other initiatives the public can expect include campaign tie-ins and presence at major upcoming community and sporting events, as well as island-wide fundraising activities. In addition, the BHCT will be recognising donors in unique and surprising ways.

Also, social media will play a huge part in reaching the community. BHCT is engaging the community through its website, http://whyitmatters.bm/, as well as through Facebook updates.

In addition, the online donation section of the website has been expanded to include personalized giving options such as online pledge pages.

For more information or to get involved in the community engagement phase of the campaign as a supporting organisation or as part of one of the committees, please call Ms Lyons at 295-2428.