Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis (PMO) – The Keys community gathered yesterday, November 10th, 2024, to celebrate the renaming and rededication of the Keys Community Center, which will now be known as the Louise Phillips Jones Multi-Purpose Center. Prime Minister and elected representative for Constituency eight, Hon. Dr Terrance Drew, while at the ceremony, honored the life and legacy of Mrs. Louise Phillips Jones, a beloved teacher, mentor, and community leader whose impact continues to resonate throughout Keys Village.
During his remarks, Prime Minister Drew emphasised the deep-rooted influence of Mrs. Jones, noting her role in shaping the lives of generations of Keys residents. “This building is a testament to the enduring strength and resilience of the Keys community. Today, we acknowledge the contributions and honour the life of a true champion from the Keys community – Mrs. Louise Phillips Jones”.
Prime Minister Drew praised Mrs Jones’s legacy as an educator who guided young students with “patience and care,” helping to mould the character of the community’s youth. In the early years, the community centre building served as a primary school, where Mrs Jones was a guiding force for young children. Her legacy, Prime Minister Drew shared, is “woven into the very fabric of this community” and has been a unifying presence across generations.
The decision to rename the centre in Mrs Jones’s honour was initiated by a planning and dedication committee comprised of Keys residents. Prime Minister Drew acknowledged this collective effort, describing the choice to name the centre after Mrs Jones as “a no-brainer.” He also extended gratitude to Mr Dominic Steven, who has been a vital supporter and driving force behind the centre’s transformation.
The revitalisation of the Keys Community Center, which had fallen into disrepair over the years, was an inspiring community-led project. “From the painting to the construction, the windows to the fencing—nearly 100 per cent of the work done on this project was led by the people of Keys,” Prime Minister Drew said, acknowledging the partnership between the community, the Office of the Prime Minister, and the Ministry of Social Development and Gender Affairs. He praised the initiative as a model of community spirit and collaboration, urging other communities across St. Kitts and Nevis to follow Keys Village’s example.
The newly renamed Louise Phillips Jones Multi-Purpose Center will serve as a hub for after-school programs, community gatherings, sports, and learning opportunities. Prime Minister Drew expressed his hope that the centre will continue to be a “living, breathing part of the Keys community”.
