‘Parade Gardens has changed for the better’

“Since Project STAR came to Parade Gardens, we’ve seen less crime, more people finding jobs, and children playing outside without fear. Parade Gardens has changed for the better,” said Patricia Durrant-Young, community leader and founder of the Inner City Youth Task Force & Job Force Limited and the Parade Gardens Parenting Club.

Durrant-Young shared this testimony during an event held to officially mark NCB Foundation’s $3-million donation to Project STAR at The Atrium in New Kingston. Led by the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ) in partnership with the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), Project STAR works with communities to design solutions that reduce crime, improve social outcomes, and expand opportunities.

“Project STAR came into the community with a clear plan for change. They sought out people like me who were already working in the community, and they gave us the support to do more,” Durrant-Young said.

Through the Parade Gardens Parenting Club, which started in 2003, Durrant-Young has touched the lives of more than 100 residents, giving parents a safe space to learn, share, and build livelihoods. With Project STAR’s support, the club offers mentorship on parenting and business development.

In 2017, Durrant-Young expanded her efforts by founding the Inner City Youth Task Force & Job Force Limited to support unattached youth.

“Every Saturday we open our doors to the children,” she explained. “We do arts and crafts, spelling bees, reading sessions, even essay competitions. Some have even received tablets to help them with schoolwork. For the older youths, once they graduate, Project STAR helps place them in jobs. That’s what keeps them focused and hope alive in the community.”

Durrant-Young’s passion is personal.

“I know what it is to struggle growing up. That’s why I give back. I want the next generation to feel supported in ways I didn’t,” she said.

NCB Foundation’s funding support will help Project STAR expand into more communities, building on progress already seen in Parade Gardens.

“Patricia’s story is proof that when everyday people are given the right support great things happen,” said Perrin Gayle, CEO of NCB Foundation. “Through our support of Project STAR, we are helping to build a better Jamaica by empowering families, creating opportunities for young people, and making communities safer.”

Ian Neita, chair of Project STAR’s Monitoring and Reporting Committee, also praised the partnership.

“Support like this strengthens our ability to scale what works. With NCB Foundation’s funding support it adds to our ability to track these successes, expand them to more communities, and ensure the transformation is both measurable and sustainable.”