The Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF) has had much commendation from a St Catherine community which it is said defied the don/strongman/enforcer/criminal in that community to save the vandalism of a community project which they had sponsored.

It appears that JSIF personnel were taken somewhat aback by the community's response, treating it as the exception, rather than the rule.

Large investments in these community-based projects only happen where the benefiting community demonstrably proves that it has a vested interest in the project, and this is what pleasantly surprised the JSIF.

This should be the norm, and a bankable proposition for all investing agencies, the assurances of which should be strong.

This is how they and other investment funds can proceed with greater certainty.

Liaise with established community-based organisations, e.g. citizens' associations, development area committees, etc, that have a track record in the community under consideration.

Establish a relationship driven by the principle of equity partnership.

Don't just invest, take a comprehensive interest in the community in which the investment is being made so that a dynamic and the psyche of the people can become your best tool going forward.

Where the people put their lives on the line, as happened in this case, they should be co-opted to the very boards of management/implementation committees within the investing company since even if it takes you long to realise it, they are your greatest resources.

I am, etc.,

DERRICK SIMON

Camp David

Golden Spring, St Andrew