A steady recruitment drive in the nation's second city is paying off for the Governor General's Youth Award, particularly in the last few weeks.

Presently, there are 1,690 youths across The Bahamas enrolled in the international award programme, which often sees a member of the British Royal family present the highest award, the Gold Award, in a Government House ceremony.

Last year, there were 221 Awards presented in Grand Bahama. Next to New Providence, GB has the second largest enrollment of GGYA participants.

There are units active at Bishop Michael Eldon School, Eight Mile Rock High, Grand Bahama Catholic High, Jack Hayward High, Lucaya International School, St. George’s High, St. Paul’s Methodist College, Sunland Baptist Academy and Tabernacle Baptist Christian Academy

Recently, the GGYA brought on stream new part-time officer, Sandra Laing, to not only aid in recruiting volunteers and participants, but also to assist in getting the word out about the programme.

"There was a need in Grand Bahama to have the units better coordinated," explains GGYA's national director, Denise Mortimer. "We required a central point person to distribute and collect GGYA materials, equipment and fees, when necessary."

Additionally, Ms Laing will represent the GGYA at local functions and ensure that Awards are presented in a timely fashion.

The 20-year, veteran educator previously taught at Grand Bahama Catholic High School and, more recently, worked with the 2013 CARIFTA team. She brings a wealth of knowledge to her new post and knows how to engage with today's youths.

It's an important skill to possess considering a key GGYA initiative is to attract 2,000 participants into the programme which honors youths with Bronze, Silver, or a Gold Award after they've met minimum requirements in physical recreation, volunteer work, skill development activities and hiking.

Netting new units Since Ms Laing came onboard, the GGYA has welcomed into the fold Tabernacle Baptist Academy led by religion teacher, Ashell Bain. Approximately, 25 students expressed an interest in joining. So far, 10 have already turned in registration forms.

"There are a couple of schools on the island that are not a part of the programme. I'm looking forward to getting those schools involved," said Ms Laing.

"I hope to bring more awareness of the programme to the Grand Bahama community and consequently expand on the existing enrollment levels."

The GGYA's planned expansion is being made possible through a generous partnership with the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture. The G.O.L.D. initiative brings a financial infusion to the non profit organization and enables it to sustain units on often overlooked Family Islands.