From instability to independence through mentorship, housing, and support

Program
Shelter & Housing + Community Outreach

Location
Martha Brae Community, Trelawny Parish

Overview
Antoinette Clarke grew up in an underprivileged household in rural Jamaica as the eldest of four siblings. From a young age, she helped care for her younger siblings while supporting her mother, who was living with multiple sclerosis (MS). The family lived with their grandfather, whose love and guidance helped them navigate many difficult circumstances together.

Despite financial hardship and significant family responsibilities, Antoinette remained deeply committed to her education and determined to create a better future for herself and her family. Her perseverance and academic dedication led to her acceptance into one of the top schools in Jamaica, reflecting both her resilience and potential.

During this time, Village Rise became part of the family’s journey, providing encouragement, mentorship, and support that helped create greater stability during a vulnerable period in their lives.

In 2021, Antoinette’s mother passed away during her first year of high school, a devastating loss that deeply impacted the family. Even through the heartbreak, Antoinette continued pursuing her education with the support of her grandfather, siblings, and the ongoing care and guidance provided through Village Rise.

Today, Antoinette is preparing for her CXC examinations in subjects including Principles of Accounts, Principles of Business, Theatre Arts, Food, Nutrition and Health, Mathematics, English Language, English Literature, and Office Administration. These studies represent opportunity, growth, and the possibility of creating a more stable future for herself and her family.

Implementation
Support was provided through Village Rise’s case-based community support model, including mentorship, educational encouragement, emotional support, life guidance, and coordination with local community leaders and partners.

Impact

• Supported Antoinette in continuing her educational journey

• Provided long-term mentorship and emotional support

• Helped create greater stability during a critical stage of her life

• Supported a vulnerable family navigating illness and loss

• Encouraged long-term personal and academic growth

Long-Term Impact
Antoinette continues working toward the future she envisioned for herself despite significant personal and financial obstacles. Her story reflects the power of resilience, education, and consistent community support, and serves as an example of how long-term investment in young people can help create pathways toward stability and opportunity.

This program is completed.

Supporting young adults transitioning out of orphan care

Program
Shelter & Housing + Community Outreach

Location
Martha Brae and surrounding communities

Overview
Many young adults aging out of orphanage care in Jamaica face an abrupt transition into adulthood without stable housing, financial support, mentorship, or employment opportunities. Without a support system in place, many are at risk of homelessness, unemployment, and long-term instability.

The Third Base Program was created to help bridge that gap by providing transitional support for young men navigating life after institutional care. Through housing assistance, mentorship, life skills guidance, and employment support, the program aimed to help participants build stability, confidence, and a path toward independence.

Over the course of the program, Village Rise supported four young men through this transition period, helping them navigate education, employment, and independent living.

Implementation
The program was delivered through a tailored, case-based support model with ongoing mentorship, monitoring, and collaboration with local partners and community leaders. Support focused on helping participants secure employment, continue their education, develop life skills, and establish greater long-term stability.

Impact

• Supported 4 young adults transitioning out of orphanage care

• Provided transitional housing and consistent mentorship

• Assisted participants with employment readiness and job placement

• Helped one participant secure employment in hotel security

• Supported another participant, Anthony, through graduation from military school

• Delivered life skills development and ongoing guidance toward independence

Long-Term Impact
The Third Base Program helped equip young adults with the tools, structure, and support needed to transition into stable and productive adult lives. By investing in mentorship, housing stability, and opportunity, the program contributed to breaking cycles of vulnerability and creating stronger long-term outcomes for youth aging out of care.

Strengthening local ecosystems through family and community involvement

Program
Community Outreach

Location
Martha Brae Community

Overview
Village Rise works closely with parents, educators, and local leaders to ensure programs are community-driven and responsive to local needs.

Implementation
Delivered through ongoing collaboration with families, church leadership, and local stakeholders.

Impact

• Active parent and community involvement

• Local educators engaged in programming

• Strong community participation in initiatives

Long-Term Impact
Builds trust, strengthens community networks, and ensures long-term sustainability of programs.