Mormon youth and missionaries gave a Marshall Islands hospital a face-lift recently. The young volunteers, all members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, took three hours on 27 June to transform the facilities of the Majuro Hospital Rehabilitation Department.
The project was the result of the combined efforts of Romina Manrique, director of the hospital’s rehabilitation department; Sherwood Tibon, hospital physical facilities; and local Latter-day Saint leaders. Community groups donated both materials and food for the volunteers.
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The young volunteers ― easily distinguished by the bright yellow “Mormon Helping Hands” vests they were wearing ― used 40 paintbrushes and 16 rollers as they went through nine gallons of paint.
What was previously “an eye-sore,” according to some observers, became “refreshingly beautiful.”
“That was such an improvement,” Mr Tibon said after the project. “Someday I hope they can paint the entire hospital.”
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints encourages both youth and adult members to actively participate in community service projects. Often project ideas are developed jointly with community leaders.
Local Church leader, Elder John L. Johnson, said, “I am so proud of the young people who came together to do this project.”
“It was hot, but they came and supported…giving.”