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Support SJCCDO & SPBS to Send CEMSS to the 2026 Penn Relays!
We are excited to launch this fundraiser for the South Jersey Caribbean Cultural Development Organization (SJCCDO) in collaboration with the Sandy Point Benevolent Society (SPBS) to assist the student-athletes of St. Kitts & Nevis. These incredible organizations work tirelessly to uplift our community and support our students.
For the students of the Charles E. Mills Secondary School (CEMSS) in Sandy Point, St. Kitts, the dream isn't just to run a race; it's to run toward a future full of possibilities. This year, we are proactively raising funds to send 12 athletes and three (3) coaches from CEMSS to represent St. Kitts and Nevis at the 2026 Penn Relays in Philadelphia.
We would like to continue this initiative of collaborative fund-raising annually through 2027 and beyond for all schools in the Federation of St. Kitts & Nevis. This is for the good of all student athletes in St. Kitts & Nevis.
The Penn Relays, hosted by the University of Pennsylvania, is not just another track meet. It is the oldest and largest track and field competition in the United States, a historic event held at Franklin Field since 1895. Every year, over 15,000 participants from across the globe descend upon Philadelphia to compete . For a young athlete from the Caribbean, walking onto that track is a life-changing moment.
A Legacy of Excellence: CEMSS at the Penn Relays
This is not CEMSS's first time on this prestigious stage. At the 2025 Penn Relays, the CEMSS Eagles soared, achieving their best finish to date and proving they belong among the world's best.
Gold Medal Victory: The Boys' 4 x 400 m relay team of Vancelle Douglas, Naseem Gerald, Jaheem Clarke, and Tejuan Webbe brought home the gold medal with a stunning time of 3:27.03.
Top Finishes: The Boys' 4 x 100 m relay team blazed to a 3rd-place finish in their event, clocking 45.19 seconds.
Individual Excellence: Jaheem Clarke showcased his talent in the Javelin Throw Championship, securing 9th place with a personal best throw of 182 feet 3 inches (55.56m).
These results are a testament to the dedication of these student-athletes, their coaches, and the unwavering support of their community. Now, they are ready to build on this success.
More Than Medals: A Path to a Brighter Future
Is this trip about winning? Absolutely. But the medals, while glorious, are not the ultimate prize. For these students, the Penn Relays is a powerful platform that can alter the trajectory of their lives. It is a proven pathway to higher education.
The Penn Relays is the single biggest recruiting meet for college scouts in the United States. Coaches from universities and colleges across the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) flock to Franklin Field to find the next generation of talent . Competing on this stage gives our CEMSS athletes the invaluable opportunity to be seen in person, to showcase their skills, and to open doors that would otherwise remain closed.
This exposure can lead directly to academic and athletic scholarships. Just as athletes like T'anna Liburd and Shamarie Kamarley Newton from St. Kitts and Nevis have earned scholarships to US colleges, our CEMSS athletes can use this platform to pursue a university degree while continuing their track career . For many, this is the first step toward a fulfilling and sustainable career, gaining an education that will benefit them and their families for a lifetime.
While in Philadelphia, Team SKN will also have the opportunity to visit local universities and experience American culture, broadening their horizons far beyond the track.
How Your Donation Will Help
Your generous support will directly fund the participation of 15 team members for the April 2026 Penn Relays. The funds raised will cover:
- Local Accommodation: Safe and comfortable housing for the team during their stay in Philadelphia.
- Transportation: While in the USA we will be providing transportation to and from JFK Airport and also local transportation in Philadelphia during the week of April 21-28th.
- Meals: Providing nutritious meals, hydration supplies, and water to keep our athletes fueled and ready to compete daily.
- Incidentals: Covering essential miscellaneous costs for the team's well-being.
NOTE: All donations made to this ongoing fund-raising initiative will be tax-deductible per IRS rules.
No donation amount is too large or too small. Every dollar brings these talented students one step closer to their dreams. By supporting the CEMSS Eagles, you are not just funding a trip to a track meet; you are investing in the future leaders of St. Kitts and Nevis.
Join us in cheering on Team SKN and help us show the power of community support. Together, we can help these athletes run toward a brighter future.
Thank you for your support!
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