Mitsyann Irving
Executive Director
Nassau, The Bahamas · Since 2014
Community Centres in Nassau.
One Powerful Model for Change.
Lend a Hand Bahamas works in the heart of the community, combining comprehensive programming, local leadership, and global volunteer support to create opportunity for children, families, and adults in Nassau.
Serving Grant's Town, Bain's Town, and Over-the-Hill communities through trusted, place-based programming.
Rooted in Community.
Built for Long-Term Impact.
3
Community Centres
6+
Comprehensive Programs
Education, STEM, Culinary, Arts, and more
500+
Students
Engaged in weekly after-school programs
150+
Workforce Graduates
Trained in culinary and technology skills
10k+
Meals Distributed
Supporting families each year
2k+
Volunteer Hours
Given by local and global supporters
24/7
Crisis Readiness
Prepared for disaster response
All
Generations Served
Children, families, adults, and seniors
About Lend a Hand Bahamas
Community Development, Rooted Where It Matters Most
Founded in 2014, with our first centre opening in 2018, we bring comprehensive programming into the heart of Nassau's neighborhoods. Our centres build trust, improve access, and create lasting opportunities for children, youth, adults, families, and seniors.
2014
Lend a Hand Bahamas is founded.
2018
Our first community centre opens in Grant's Town.
2021
Comprehensive STEM and culinary programming expands.
2023
Additional locations open to serve more neighborhoods.
People Behind the Work
The Team
Joseph Farley
STEM Program Leader
Kavon McInnis
Culinary Program Coordinator
Gurnos Brown
Electrical Program Coordinator
Sweavon Smith
Hydroponics Program Coordinator
Anastaic Bevans
Literacy Program Coordinator
Dora Mae Lafleur
Sewing Program Coordinator
Our Board
Board of Directors
Shelagh Pritchard
Edmund Dorsett
George Maillis
Sharleen Hanson
Lucas Metropulos
Tara Morley
Timothy Carroll
Andrew O'Brien
Saskia Connery
Spencer Wilson
Valentino Brown
Our Model: In the Heart of the Community
We don't just run programs; we build trusted spaces. Our place-based model ensures that extraordinary opportunities are accessible where they are needed most.
Place-Based Centres
Safe, inspiring spaces located directly within the neighborhoods we serve.
Comprehensive Programming
Holistic support addressing education, wellness, and economic opportunity.
Local Leadership + Global Volunteers
Community-led initiatives supported by passionate global advocates.
Three Centres. One Mission.
Neville and Nora Dorsett Community Centre
Grant's Town, Nassau
Our flagship location providing daily after-school programs, adult education, and community services.
Education & Empowerment Centre
Grant's Town, Nassau
Hands-on technology, science, coding, and innovation programming for youth and teens.
Culinary and Entrepreneurial Centre
Grant's Town, Nassau
Workforce-ready culinary training and entrepreneurship development for teens and adults.
Comprehensive Programs for the Whole Community
Education & Literacy
Foundational reading, tutoring, and academic support for school-aged children.
Youth Enrichment
After-school programs, life skills, and mentorship that help young people thrive.
STEM & Innovation
Technology, coding, and robotics that open doors to 21st-century careers.
Culinary Training & Workforce
Practical skills and career preparation for hospitality and beyond.
Hydroponics & Food Security
Sustainable agriculture that teaches and provides fresh produce.
Arts, Creativity & Culture
Creative expression, Bahamian arts, music, and cultural preservation.
Family & Community Support
Adult education, senior activities, and family wellness resources.
Disaster Relief Response
Community staging, coordination, and support during emergencies.
Support Our Programs
Hydroponics & Food Security
From seedling to harvest.
Students learn sustainable agriculture with their own hands, in the garden bed and in the hydroponic rows.
Volunteers Come From Around the World.
The Impact Happens Here.
Whether you're visiting Nassau for a week or you're a lifelong resident, your skills can change lives. We welcome individuals, corporate groups, and skilled professionals.
Tutor students in reading or math
Lead a workshop in your professional field
Help with community centre maintenance
Assist with food distribution and hydroponics
Bring a Group
Corporate & schools
Share Your Skills
Specialized workshops
Sign Up for Updates
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Give
Invest in Community. Create Opportunity.
Consistent support helps keep our centres open and our programs accessible to the communities they serve.
Donate SecurelyContact
Get in Touch
Reach out to schedule a visit or learn more about our work in Nassau.
Mailing Address
11 Lewis Street
Grant's Town
Nassau, Bahamas