Caring for Others, a leading international non-profit organization based in Atlanta, Georgia, has announced that it will convene its 2026 conference in Antigua and Barbuda.
The announcement was made at a press conference held on Wednesday at the Copper and Lumber Store where three senior officials of the organization, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Eslene Richmond-Shockley, Board Chair, Crystal Khalil and Board Member, Megan Lowell addressed local media representatives.
When asked what led her to forming Caring for Others, Dr. Richmond-Shockley revealed that she was called upon by God, to start the organization some 25 years ago. “Twenty-five years ago, I started with $25.00. I came from the corporate world and I left corporate because I was told that I had a brain tumor and that I had six months to live. Against that backdrop, here I am today because it was back in 1995 when I received that diagnosis. I was called by God to help his people and this is where I am today. It’s the most rewarding job that I have ever had; my husband and I,” she remarked.
According to Dr. Richmond-Shockley, Caring for Others does not have a religious component; rather, it has a faith component. “We help anyone; you don’t have to be religious,” she stated.
However, she believes strongly in the maxim, ‘faith without works is dead’. “I am literally doing what I was called one night to do; go help God’s people,” she added.
Dr. Richmond-Shockley explained that her organization operates from its own offices in Atlanta, Georgia in the United States, and that it also owns large warehouse spaces from where it distributes food and clothing to the poor in several communities, not just in the United States but also in several Caribbean territories, including Antigua and Barbuda.
For over 25 years, Caring for Others has worked tirelessly to combat poverty and restore dignity to vulnerable communities across the globe. Through its comprehensive support services, including food distribution, clothing assistance, and sustainable economic empowerment programs, it has become a catalyst for lasting change in the lives of thousands.
At the press conference, the organization announced the launch of the 2026 International Poverty Forum and Think Tank, scheduled to take place in March 2026 in Antigua and Barbuda. This groundbreaking global initiative will bring together influential leaders and change-makers from the public, private, and non-profit sectors to advance bold solutions to end poverty.
Additionally, the organisation announced the 2026 Beneficiary of the Economic Empowerment Fund—a cornerstone of the Micro Economic Community Empowerment (MECE) Programme. This fund is dedicated to investing in sustainable projects that support self-sufficiency and entrepreneurship in under-resourced communities.
Rhonda Spencer, a single mother of three, who has survived health challenges and homelessness, was the recipient of the award for US$5,000.00 to assist her set up a small business producing authentic souvenir items for sale to tourists.
