Rebuilding Hope: Volunteers Unite to Restore Munro College, St. Elizabeth, Jamaica

On Saturday, December 6, 2025, something powerful happened at Munro College. What began as a day marked by destruction, heartbreak, and uncertainty transformed into a movement of unity, service, and hope. After Hurricanes Beryl and Melissa left significant damage to the P.H.A.S.E. 1 Academy dorms and living spaces, our youth faced the unimaginable unsafe housing, damaged belongings, and interrupted routines that are essential to their academic and athletic development.

But Jamaica showed up.

Led by Wayne Dawkins, Director of P.H.A.S.E. 1 Academy, and Randy Finnikin, Director of the Spring Village Institute of Vocational and Professional Training (IVPT), an incredible team of skilled contractors, youth volunteers, parents, and community members gathered to begin the rebuilding process.

Walking through the damaged dorms, the weight of the moment was undeniable. Rooms once filled with laughter, discipline, teamwork, and purpose now carried the scars of severe flooding, roof damage, broken walls, and lost belongings. Yet the volunteers didn’t flinch. They came with tools, courage, and a deep belief in the impact P.H.A.S. E. 1 Academy has on Jamaica’s youth.

Throughout the day, teams worked tirelessly rebuilding walls, repairing beds, installing fixtures, cleaning debris, restoring water-damaged areas, and bringing life back into the spaces that mean so much to our athletes. The energy was electric. Apprentices from IVPT gained hands-on experience while contributing to a cause that directly impacts their peers. Parents and local supporters picked up brooms, hammers, and paintbrushes. Coaches cheered on the young volunteers learning new skills.

It was community at its best.

As the sun set and final tools were packed away, the dorms looked different not just repaired, but renewed. This was more than a rebuild. It was a recommitment to the youth we serve, a reminder that no storm can break the spirit of a united community.

But the work isn’t over.

P.H.A.S.E. 1 Academy and The Bridge Network Foundation will continue hosting volunteer days over the coming weeks as we restore, upgrade, and transform the Munro College facility into a safe, inspiring environment for every child who calls it home.

Thank you to everyone who showed up. Thank you to everyone who donated. And thank you to everyone who believes in our mission. Together, we rebuild not just buildings but futures.

If you would like to volunteer or donate supplies, please contact us or visit our website for upcoming dates.

Rebuild With Us.

Together we can restore hope, safety, and opportunity for Jamaica’s youth.

Volunteer • Donate Supplies • Support the Mission

Follow @phase1_basketball_jamaica

Message us to join the next volunteer day.

“When we show up, our youth rise.”