Health benefits from CIBC FirstCaribbean contributions

Two local organizations recently staged successful health promotion campaigns with assistance from CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank.

The Junior Chamber International (JCI), formerly known as Jaycees, along with the St James School of Medicine were in different areas of the island on Saturday, June 4, 2016, raising awareness about diabetes, HIV/AIDS and other health matters using different methods, all of which were successful.{{more}}

The St James School of Medicine orchestrated a “Colour Me Cured” diabetes 5K fun run, starting at the Arnos Vale Sports complex and ending at the Victoria Park in Kingstown.

Along the way, participants were drenched in paint in an array of colours by volunteers, which resulted in a spectacular sight at the finish line, where a health fair was also conducted. The institution used the event to raise awareness of diabetes, its causes and preventative measures.

In the countryside, the JCI also hosted a health fair which took place at the Biabou clinic. Under the theme: “Healthy Lifestyles: Impacting Communities One by One,” JCI volunteers administered blood pressure checks, glucose monitoring, rapid HIV testing and conducted a series of demonstrations.

The well attended event saw individuals from the community leaving with a better understanding of health issues, and how they can work to prevent or reduce the occurrence of chronic non-communicable diseases.

Both the JCI and St James School of Medicine, in preparation for these events, approached CIBC FirstCaribbean for partnership for these activities, through financial contributions.

Jacintha Hinds, Business Support officer and Employee Engagement champion said the bank was happy to contribute to the projects since health and fitness is a major part of the bank’s corporate responsibility focus.