On Friday, 1 November 2013, during the 32nd Independence Ceremony of the Nation of Antigua and Barbuda, the Executive Director of the GARD Center, Mrs. Roberta Williams received the Grand Officer of the Most Illustrious Order of Merit (GOM).  This national award was for her work over the last twenty-four (24) years with youth and community development through the GARD Center.
Mrs. Williams was very humbled and became emotional as the Governor General, Dame Louise Lake-Tack, shook her hand in front of the hundreds of folks gathered at the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Grounds to view the proceedings.
Roberta, later emailed her staff to officially inform them of her award and wrote, “This award is for all of us, for all those who over the years have contributed to the growth of our Center and to all of you who are incredible. I cannot say thank you enough…  Thank you all again for your passion and support. May God bless you all and to Him all honor and glory.”
The staff of the GARD Center wish to congratulate the Executive Director on receiving this prestigious award, of which she is truly deserving.