The Tribune

A NEW scholarship aims to save at-risk youths from falling victim to the streets while at the same time, bolstering the nation’s Olympic programme.

And, it gives donors the chance to cement the legacy of their generosity, or name the donation after a deserving person of their choosing.

Olympic Judo Federation president D’Arcy Rahming said that for less than $2 a day, a company or individual can help one child develop the discipline and character to overcome his or her challenging circumstances.

Mr Rahming said he founded the Youth of Steel Discipline programme based on his experience as a martial artist and community activist.

The goal is for many of the children to become members of the national team and eventually, Olympians.

As well as providing an elite competitive martial arts training regime, the scheme aims to impart lessons about integrity, honour, character and sincerity – traits that are increasingly in short supply in today’s Bahamas.

“I had no idea the need was so great until I actually got out there,” Mr Rahming said.

Soon after he began the programme, he realised that if it was going to make an impact he would have to expand.

Mr Rahming explained that he trains top College of the Bahamas students to lead the programme, not only in Judo, but also subjects like anger management, conflict resolution and how to protect from child predators.

He said the scholarship funds go towards paying these coaches, buying safety mats and uniforms, paying for tournaments and buying trophies.

Each annual scholarship is $600 and can be paid in increments.

“You can sponsor one scholarship or whatever your heart and your pocket moves you to contribute,” he said.

Mr Rahming said he understands that things are difficult for many businesses in the Bahamas at the moment, and that as tough economic times persist, more and more organisations are sending out requests for help.

That is why he decided that the Youths of Steel Discipline programme must also give something back.

He explained that each donor will not only get to name the scholarship, but also have a link on the programme’s website dedicated to their business or organisation.

“We drive traffic to your products and services, offering you a customised web page and heighten your public image in a way that far exceeds an individual scholarship,” he said.

“It’s also a great way to immortalise someone who’s contributions may have gone unnoticed.”

“Every donation is important and without it, another at-risk youth could fall victim to the streets,” Mr Rahming said.

• See the INSIGHT section in today’s Tribune for more.