This month, I traveled to Abaco as part of the Map4Good Bahamas initiative—our national effort to chart and connect non-profit and faith-based organizations across the archipelago. The trip was a powerful reminder of the strength and spirit found in community, as well as a valuable opportunity to listen, learn, and lay the groundwork for lasting collaboration.
We met with several key organizations including FRIENDS of the Environment, the Perry Institute for Marine Science, the Bahamas Marine Mammal Research Organisation (BMMRO), the Abaco Stewardship Council, Treasure Cay Foundation, and others. These conversations highlighted both the resilience and innovation present in the community, as well as opportunities for collaboration and mapping. Many shared their excitement for the Map4Good project, recognizing its vital importance in helping communities connect, collaborate, and strengthen their collective impact.
The trip included stops in over a dozen settlements, stretching from Sandy Point in the south to Crown Haven in the north. Along the way, I visited numerous churches, community centers, and NPO headquarters—many of which are still navigating the long-term impacts of Hurricane Dorian.
Notable stops included:
- Southern communities like Sandy Point and Crossing Rocks
- Central hubs including Spring City, Marsh Harbour, and Dundas Town
- Northern settlements such as Treasure Cay, Blackwood, Cooperstown, Cedar Harbour, and Crown Haven
The trip allowed me to identify key contacts and many organizations for follow-up—those deeply embedded in their communities, delivering critical services, and eager to connect through the Map4Good platform. Their insights and local knowledge will play an important role in shaping how we represent Abaco’s civic landscape.
In the weeks ahead, we’ll continue outreach and verification efforts to ensure the map is as inclusive and accurate as possible. This includes reconnecting with a number of churches, community initiatives, and emergency services identified during the visit.
This visit to Abaco is just the beginning. Over the next few months, we’ll be traveling to additional islands to continue this work—building relationships, collecting data, and creating a digital tool that reflects the strength and service of Bahamian communities.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who took the time to meet with me, share insights, point me to other groups, and offer to spread the word—your support makes this work meaningful and possible. If we didn’t get a chance to connect this time, I’d still love to hear from you. This project is stronger with your voice and involvement.
If you’re part of a non-profit or faith-based organization—or know of one making a difference in your community—we’d love to hear from you. Visit https://www.orgbahamas.com/map4good/ to sign up or refer an organization to be included on the map. Every submission helps ensure that vital resources and services are visible, connected, and accessible across The Bahamas.
— Vanessa Bethel
Project Manager, Map4Good Bahamas