PLM Donates $5,000 to VG Basketball Club
The People's Leadership Movement has donated $5,000 to the Virgin Gorda Basketball Club during the opening of the 2026 VG Summer Jam Basketball League. PLM Leader Mark H. Vanterpool presented the contribution to help cover operational expenses and equipment needs. The donation highlights the newly formed political party's stated commitment to supporting youth and sports across the territory.
The People's Leadership Movement (PLM) has pledged its ongoing commitment to youth and athletic development across the territory with a $5,000 donation to the Virgin Gorda Basketball Club. Vanterpool presented the cheque on Saturday during the opening ceremony of the 2026 VG Summer Jam Basketball League.
The businessman and former government minister attended the event at the club's invitation, delivering brief remarks before making the presentation ahead of the evening's second scheduled matchup. Vanterpool explained that the financial contribution was designed to demonstrate the PLM's active support for young athletes and sporting programmes throughout the British Virgin Islands.
Club officials had previously indicated that approximately $4,000 was required to purchase a new public address system for the tournament. In response, the PLM opted to donate $5,000 to help meet that goal and support the league's broader operational needs. During his address, Vanterpool reflected on his personal connection to local basketball, recalling his involvement in the sport spanning nearly five decades.
He described his attendance as a nostalgic moment and paid tribute to his late friend Jeffery Caines, after whom the Virgin Gorda basketball arena is named. Vanterpool shared his satisfaction at seeing the tradition of basketball continue strongly among the next generation of Virgin Gorda athletes.
Virgin Gorda Basketball Club President Trevor Stevens welcomed the financial assistance, emphasizing the considerable expenses involved in staging the annual league. Stevens noted that organizing the competition requires significant resources to guarantee a safe, professional, and enjoyable environment for players and fans.
He added that contributions like the PLM's donation are essential to maintaining the league's success for the wider Virgin Gorda community. Vanterpool concluded by wishing players and organizers a safe and successful tournament. The PLM leader, who maintains established commercial ties to Virgin Gorda, noted that he plans to return to the sister island soon in his political capacity to engage with residents ahead of the upcoming General Elections.
The party is expected to announce a full slate of candidates in the coming weeks.
Primary source: 284 Media