ST. THOMAS — Three Charlotte Amalie High School students were awarded gift awards to assist with funding their college applications and/or books, following the end of a six-week writing clinic held at their school.
The students—Gwendaline Pimentel, Gia Freeman, and Juchara Margetson—were presented the gift awards on January 30th, 2018 at the C.A.H.S. Career Center, wrapping up the last session of the six-week clinic.
The writing clinic was part of the efforts of former C.A.H.S. students Michael Vante and Amber Lewis, who say that they wanted to continue to make a difference, not only at their Alma Mater but in their community. Post Hrricanes Irma and Maria, Ms. Lewis and Mr. Vante were made aware that school hours were being cut at the high school. Ms. Lewis realized the challenges the students would face, being that internet services were limited, and college applications were soon due.
“I knew that the teachers and students were all overwhelmed and doing the best possible; yet they couldn’t do it all. I wanted to help out and I figured that I had enough expertise in writing, resume building, and mentorship to volunteer my time in those areas,” she said.
Amber Lewis andMichael Vante
Ms. Lewis added that after pitching the idea to C.A.H.S.’s senior principal, they were able to speak with the senior class about the writing clinic. Two weeks later, they held the first session, where students were assisted with college essays, college application and resume building. The gift awards were conceived as an additional reward offered to three hard working students; Ms. Lewis describes the recipients as well-deserving young ladies.
Ms. Lewis and Mr. Vante both started and personally funded the writing clinic while working full-time jobs as healthcare consultants.
“We want our community to know that you don’t need a significant amount of time, energy, or even funding to give back, you simply need a willing heart,” said Ms. Lewis.
Two months later, Ms. Lewis says she is still coaching one of the three young ladies through her college applications and decisions.
Tags: amber lewis, usvi, writing clinic
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