In developing countries, children from households that are at or below the poverty line have an increased susceptibility to experiencing economic hardships as an adult. This trend commonly stretches across generations and perpetuates inadequate living conditions, inequitable access to education, and health disparities. Together, these challenges can impede the holistic health of the child, family, and community at large. However, primary preventative measures such as investments in education and community engagement can mitigate these paradigms.
Alphonso Scholarship Fund, Inc. (ASF) was founded in response to the need for financial support for children graduating from primary school. Secondary-level education in Jamaica is technically free. Still, many families from rural areas struggle to pay fees associated with transitioning from primary to secondary school. Alphonso Scholarship Fund, Inc. began as a traditional scholarship fund and disbursed the first of its need and merit-based scholarships in 2018. After welcoming its founding board of directors and officers in 2020, Alphonso Scholarship Fund, Inc. continued to engage various community leaders and stakeholders in St. Catherine and St. Andrew parishes. Based on the communities’ feedback, the organization expanded its programs to include Outreach Programs and a Summer Literacy Camp with the latter taking precedence.
Key programs of ASF are scaffolded on principles found in the field of Community Health. Thus, the organization focuses on the effects of primary prevention initiatives, such as access to education and community engagement, on the holistic health of vulnerable people groups. Considering their amplified susceptibility to adverse experiences and the unique economic and social challenges associated with developing countries, Alphonso Scholarship Fund, Inc. strives to fulfill its mission to bridge the achievement gap for children in rural communities of Jamaica.
Alphonso Scholarship Fund, Inc. recognizes the paradigm of children from rural communities performing below academic performance indicators. A widely accepted assumption presumes this is due largely to limited access to intensive educational support and resources. Although academic rigor is not the sole determinant of overall health, delays in intellectual development do have the ability to affect the trajectory of individuals’ lives and predetermine child prosperity into their adult years. This direct correlation to holistic well-being transcends to community health which further creates challenges for families living in underserved parishes.
By investing in the education of children from these communities, ASF, Inc. can mediate the long-term risks associated with poor access to adequate education, community underdevelopment, and financial burden.
Mission
The mission of Alphonso Scholarship Fund, Inc. (ASF) is to bridge the achievement gap for children in rural communities of Jamaica.
Vision
Our vision is to be recognized as an advocate for rural communities through intentional investments in education and community health.
Values
- Respect – We treat all people with dignity and respect regardless of race, gender, age, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.
- Equity – We support and advocate for fairness, justice, and impartiality.
- Community – We believe in the impacts of community engagement and efficacy.
- Education – We challenge each other to strive for excellence and to continually learn.
As Alphonso Scholarship Fund, Inc. works to promote its mission and vision, it is guided by values that are rooted in and arise from, the organization’s history, tradition, and culture. Therefore, ASF, its stakeholders, volunteers, and staff will:
- Be intentional with our words, actions, thoughts, and behaviors to develop consistent and safe relationships within rural communities.
- Actively listen to and advocate for the concerns of our youth and their communities while maintaining their authentic voice.
- Acknowledge challenges by focusing on the development of self-efficacy and sustainability within the communities we serve.
- Support the healthy development of youths while encouraging them to become lifelong learners and well-rounded citizens.