Kids Day Dominica 2005, “the first ever”, was sponsored by Dr. Janet Taylor and focused on health, safety and environmental awareness for children ages 2-8. It took three months of coordinated efforts to plan the day. It was a free community event involving any individual or group who offered demonstrations or information on one of the three main categories and hence included the entire island of Dominica.
Spinal screening, first aid, herbal remedies, fire prevention, sustainable and organic living, karate, marine preservation, yoga, and massage were among some of the presentations. Dr. Taylor donated child ID cards. The police department provided fingerprinting for these. Photos also were taken for the ID cards along with dentists indicating teeth patterns on the card diagrams. The child ID card becomes a valuable record for parents when traveling abroad with their child.
A fire truck and ambulance were on the scene available for tours. Balloons, food, face painting, and over 100 donated door prizes were also part of the day. Five local individuals received Children Empowerment Awards for their outstanding service to youngsters. The President His Excellancy Dr. Nicholas Liverpool and Mrs. Liverpool, Mayor of Roseau Mr. Cecil Joseph, and the 2005 Carnival Queen were on the site as well.
A child’s bike was the grand prize and could be won by visiting all the stations and demonstrations. Freely contributed proceeds of over $900 were donated to the Children’s Heart Fund and Kiwanis Children Priority One.
Over 79 organizations co-sponsored the event donating time, talents, food, advertising or other needed items. Over 700 children were entertained for the three hours and the venue was immediately outgrown! Since Kids Day Dominica was such a huge success, it was recommended by many to become an annual event!
