The Tribune

By SANCHESKA BROWN Tribune Staff Reporter sbrown@tribunemedia.net VOLUNTEER Bahamas officials yesterday warned the public to be vigilant after several churches and civic organisations were targeted by con artists. Darron Turnquest, director of youth, said individuals have been pretending to be members of Volunteer Bahamas in order to accept money on their behalf. Mr Turnquest said the matter was brought to their attention last week, after the Royal Bahamas Police Force informed them that someone had been arrested and is expected to be charged in connection with fraud. "We were told by the police that regrettably persons have made an attempt to defraud churches and civc organisations in the name of Volunteer Bahamas. "These individuals have been soliciting funds while impersonating staff and members of Volunteer Bahamas. "We have been informed by the police that they are investigating the matter," he said. Mr Turnquest urged the public to contact the police if they are approached by anyone purporting to be from Volunteer Bahamas requesting donations. He said: "Please note the staff of Volunteer Bahamas will only call you regarding your application and participation in the programme. Under no circumstance would any member of Volunteer Bahamas contact you to solicit funds or goods. "Volunteer Bahamas is a programme that does not require your funds, but simply your time." Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham launched the Volunteer Bahamas initiative in November of last year. Mr Turnquest said the programme - aimed at uniting those eager to be involved in social work with the charities that need them - already has 700 volunteers onboard and 23 organisations have sent in requests for their services. Registration forms for Volunteer Bahamas are available on the governments website www.bahamas.gov.bs. They are also available in New Providence at the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture on Thompson Boulevard and at the Ministry of Labour and Social Development in the Main Post Office Building on East Street. Family Island residents can collect or return applications to the Administrator's office on their respective islands.