Rayjon Share Care, a Sarnia-based charitable organization supporting Caribbean communities, is celebrating its 40th anniversary.
Executive Director Allison Kingston said she's excited to keep the history of Rayjon alive and looks forward to seeing it continue for many more years.
"I know when John [Barnfield] and [Ray] Wyrzykowski first envisioned Rayjon, they of course hoped it would last forever and hoped they'd be able to continue partnerships with those in communities in Haiti and the Dominican Republic," she said.
Since 1986, Rayjon Share Care has focused on improving education, nutrition, and quality of life through partnerships in Haiti and the Dominican Republic.
According to its website, Rayjon has supported the education of over 6,500 primary school students, helped over 1,800 students with tuition costs, helped over 2,000 adults with literacy skills, and supported over 400 female entrepreneurs through microloans.
To celebrate the milestone anniversary, a free open house-style event will be held on Thursday, June 18, at the Sarnia Golf & Curling Club from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Kingston said all are welcome to attend the casual event.
Photos and artefacts will be displayed to showcase memories of the past four decades, and speeches will begin at 6 p.m.
"There are a lot of trips that have happened. Over 5,000 people from Canada, mostly Sarnia-Lambton, have gone on partnership trips to Haiti and the Dominican Republic, so we're really excited to bring people together," she said. "We are also excited to create an in-depth timeline. We really want everyone to reflect on their memories and share those with us as well."
Part of Thursday's celebration will also memorialize the contributions of past volunteers and contributors.
Earlier this year, Rayjon mourned the loss of its co-founder, John Barnfield.
