Remarks for the Self-Help Program Recipients

Port Louis, March 23, 2011:

It is my pleasure to be here with you today to celebrate the success of nine organizations and their value and importance to the community.

I want to stress that the engagement between the United States of America and the Republic of Mauritius is not just between our governments, but truly comes from the American people who, even in these tough financial times back home, seek to encourage civil and social responsibility and seek to support well-being of Mauritius.  Only by working together can we make life better for ourselves and our neighbors.  Non-governmental organizations and community groups are a critical part of the social and economic development of Mauritius and express some of the most important aspirations of the people.

The U.S. Embassy is very pleased to be able to support Self-Help Projects in Mauritius.  The Ambassador’s Special Self Help fund’s main objective is the uplifting of communities. It aims to provide support to those projects whose members are working to do just that.  This Fund is not meant to be handouts or charity, but seed money that if used wisely can reap more for the community. 

We are proud to say that over the years, the Ambassador’s Self Help awardees in Mauritius have made a tremendous and positive impact on their communities for the betterment of all Mauritians.  

Our current group of grantees, here with us today, follows in this fine tradition. You have helped equip and provide free education to the needy, provided hearing aids for the hearing impaired, and improved the lives of those fighting against substance abuse and its consequences.  You maintain these facilities for the benefit of the whole community.  You work hard to improve the lives of those around you.  We recognize that the most important contribution comes from community leaders like you.   We honor and commend you for your work and are proud to be able to play a part in it.  

We are confident that you will use the Ambassador’s Self Help funding efficiently and effectively to improve your important community programs.  For that, we believe in you and we believe in your future, which is why we are proud to stand here with you today and want to help you make your plans and dreams succeed as you strive to create a better Mauritius.

Once again, let me congratulate each and every one of our nine grant recipients.  My team looks forward to progress reports on how each of your projects are developing, and when your projects are completed, we will be eager to visit your projects to see the success and progress you have made. 

Congratulations to all of you, and good luck in your endeavors.