Avis Henriques lauded for outstanding service

AVIS E. HENRIQUES was lauded for her outstanding contribution to the professional development of the voluntary sector and in particular the CVSS/United Way of Jamaica at a farewell and appreciation function held recently in her honour.

Mrs. Henriques served the organisation for 14 years as the president/chief professional officer. Under her leadership, the organisation raised and disbursed in excess of $180 million to more than 3,000 projects islandwide.

The Port Antonio Suite of Le Meridien Jamaica Pegasus was transformed into a breathtaking and magical setting for the farewell function.

Lt. Cdr. John McFarlane serenaded the guest of honour with his rendition of such songs as Unforgettable and Bridge Over Troubled Water.

In her tribute, Pauline Knight, director, Social and Manpower Planning Division of the Planning Institute of Jamaica said: "It is a grave loss to United Way that you are retiring as head of that organiSation. Your influence in the wider NGO sector is of such importance that the loss there will be felt and will undoubtedly have even more far-reaching implications.

Tony Ray, director, Corporate Affairs at Desnoes and Geddes Limited, who represented the donor community, spoke of Mrs. Henriques' capacity for hard work especially when faced with difficult challenges and of her focus and commitment to the task of helping the less-fortunate in our nation.

A framed copy of the tribute and an item which Alvaro Casserly, chairman/chief executive officer of the Jamaica Unit Trust Services Limited and a member of the Board of United Way of Jamaica described as "not for display, but which I assure you is bankable", were presented to her.

In her reply, Mrs. Henriques said she was overwhelmed by the toasts proposed to her, which made her feel like an icon, which she was not.

- Contributed

Back to Entertainment