The year 1970 is etched in history as the year of “Black Power” demonstrations by communities who felt they were marginalised. Their activities culminated in a revolution for social justice. Forty-four years later, the level of injustice continues to cripple society. The same communities that cried out for social justice are the ones whose children live under conditions similar to the conditions of a war. The sound of gunshots reverberate in their homes, they frequently witness police raids, and pass dead bodies on their way to and from school.
In 1970, a young teacher at St Mary’s College named Fr Gerard Pantin and the famous cricketer Mr Wesley Hall went into Laventille to assist people. They rapped with youths at street corners about their needs. The youths wanted a basketball facility. The teacher told them they must contribute half the cost. The youths said they had no money. He said to them, “If you could buy beer and marijuana, then you could raise half the cost.”
The young people raised their share, and an organisation called Servol was born. The philosophy of Servol is to motivate those who are disenfranchised to set realistic goals and begin the process of self-development. It is a catalyst for social change and the transformation of lives by helping young people. Professionals help them visualise how they can contribute toward their well-being and begin the process of life changes.