To help raise funds for the 16 social ministries run by the Living Water Community, the corporate sector and top local chefs, artists, designers and entertainers, in partnership with the Hilton Trinidad and Conference Centre and Brian Mac Farlane, came together under the theme “The Joy of Our Nation” on August 30.
Corporate Trinidad and private individuals were invited, not just to attend the event, but to decorate their dinner tables in accordance with the theme to vie for prizes. What emerged was a stunning display of creativity celebrating the splendour and diversity of our country on the eve of the celebration of Independence Day.
This year’s gala fostered a tremendous community spirit and shared purpose, particularly as guests listened to the testimonies of two people who shared the transformative impact that two of the community’s social ministries had on their lives–Our Lady of the Wayside–a home for children in crisis, and Marion House–a second-chance home for young men.
Proceeds from the gala will directly support the Living Water Community’s developmental programmes that range from children in crisis to disaster relief to drug rehabilitation.
As Rhonda Maingot, co-foundress of the community, shared, “Each dollar donated to the community in the last 50 years of its existence has helped to bring hope to this country by transforming lives, one by one.”
John Peter Clarke, who is part of the organising committee for this event, shared the following: “Tonight is about more than writing a cheque; it is about standing shoulder to shoulder as a community of responsible corporates and citizens, united in a cause greater than ourselves. In times like these, when the world can feel divided and challenges can seem overwhelming, it is gatherings like tonight’s that remind us that compassion, solidarity and shared responsibility are the true foundations of progress.”
