Former Grand Gedeh County Superintendent Champions Voluntarism for Development

Paynesville Liberia: Former Grand Gedeh County Superintendent, Hon. Christopher Beh Bailey, has underscored the importance of voluntarism as the foundation of effective community service, envisioning lasting development for the Thinker's Village Block-D Community. 

                              By: Cooper Sanger 

A seasoned public servant who served as Superintendent during Former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf’s first term (2006–2012), Hon. Bailey spearheaded significant developmental initiatives in Grand Gedeh County. Now, as a newly elected leader, he has set his sights on advancing the community of Thinker's Village Block-D, with a commitment to transform it into a model of progress.

Hon. Bailey was selected through a white ballot vote, a clear testament to the community's trust in his leadership. Along with his team, he was inducted as part of a newly elected leadership corps to steer the community’s affairs for the next two years.

The newly inducted leadership team includes:

1. Hon. Christopher Beh Bailey – Chair

2. Dr. Juwe Kercula – Co-Chair

3. Amb. Fatorma Judson Boakai – Secretary General

4. Pst. Ellen S. Jones – Treasurer

5. Madam Myre Johnson – Financial Secretary

Inaugural Address: A Vision for Unity and Collective Action

In his inaugural address, Hon. Bailey shared his vision for the community, focusing on unity, voluntarism, and collective action. Reflecting on the importance of selfless service, he emphasized that true leadership requires a commitment to the welfare of others, without expectation of personal gain. "The hallmark of such an organization is voluntarism," Bailey stated. "It’s the willingness of each individual to serve the community for its betterment, without expecting salary or personal benefit."

He acknowledged the challenges of community leadership but urged residents to unite with passion and dedication to uplift their community. "Each resident has a role to play in the growth of Block-D," he said, stressing the importance of collective effort in building a thriving and resilient community.

Strategic Plan for Community Development

As part of his strategic vision, Bailey outlined both short- and long-term goals for the community. Key initiatives include:

Sanitation Improvements: Establishing a sanitation team to tackle waste management and improve public health.

Infrastructure Upgrades: Enhancing road conditions and installing street lighting to curb crime and improve safety.

Recreational Facilities: Developing a recreational center that will provide safe spaces for children and families. "We will engage landowners to create a hub that will expand our community’s recreational opportunities," Bailey shared.

Bailey also pledged to work closely with both local and international organizations to foster partnerships that benefit the community, particularly in supporting orphanages and empowering single mothers through skills development.

"Our goal must be collective action in everything we do," Bailey emphasized. "If we want to make Block-D a community to be proud of, we must work together, united in purpose."

Serving as induction officer, Montserrado County District #6 Representative Hon. Samuel Enders offered words of wisdom to the new leadership. He cautioned the leaders to remain resilient, especially given that the position comes with no financial rewards. "You will be tempted and criticized, but I urge you to endure the challenges," he advised. "Community service often brings tension and disappointment, but it’s your commitment to the greater good that matters."

Referencing the ongoing impasse at the House of Representatives, Hon. Enders noted that public service often involves making tough decisions for the benefit of the many, even when others resist. "Leaders like Speaker Fonati Koffa face opposition because they are pushing for change, like the audit of the House of Representatives, which some see as not in their interest," he explained.

In closing, Enders reminded the new leaders of the importance of accepting both the rewards and hardships of service, urging them to stay focused on their mission of advancing the community.