Brother Fred named CIBC FirstCaribbean Unsung Hero for SVG

An 84-year-old Belair resident is this country’s newest CIBC FirstCaribbean Unsung Hero.{{more}}

Edward Williams, also known as Brother Fred, or Uncle Fred, is a physically challenged man who has committed his life to the selfless care of others, in particular, young children. His work is particularly remarkable because he has suffered from polio since the age of 16 years. At present, he is unable to sit, performing all his work while standing on crutches, or lying in bed.

In spite of his challenges, Brother Fred has mentored children and adults in his community, ‘adopted’ or housed more than a dozen children, provided financial assistance to children and students, provided meals for the less fortunate, as well as offered food and shelter to the homeless. The former resident of the Leprosy and Louis Punnett Homes has also taught practical and technical skills and craft to youths and adults. He has taught Sunday School, and served as a Song Service, Stewardship and Temperance Leader at his church for some twenty-four years.

For his efforts, Brother Fred was awarded the CIBC FirstCaribbean donation of US$6,000.00 which will go towards his cause, among other gifts. He will now be among other regional finalists who will be judged for the title of Regional Unsung Hero, when the judges meet next week in Barbados. A further 7,500 US dollars will be on offer, should the local hero win the regional competition. Since the programme’s inception in 2003, St Vincent and the Grenadines has had six finalists at the regional level, three regional heroes and two regional runners-up.

The CIBC/FCIB Unsung Hero Programme is a regional initiative aimed at recognising and honouring individuals within the community, who serve selflessly without reward and recognition. The bank views this initiative as a standard-bearer for volunteerism in the region.

During last Saturday’s Dinner and Awards ceremony held at Government House, CIBC FirstCaribbean Country Manager Elroy John underscored the importance of the Unsung Hero Programme and reiterated the Bank’s commitment to ensuring it remains a premier corporate social initiative.