Alpha Institute and the Religious Sisters of Mercy who operate the school have launched a redesigned website.

The new-look product — alphaboysschool.org — was designed by Nestor Matilla (mountgrovemusic.com/) and built by Joan Cerdas (mrkowalsky.com) at no cost to Alpha.

“alphaboysschool.org will help us to better stay engaged with you, our friends and family,” the institue said. “Alpha is grateful to Mr Matilla and Mr Cerdas for taking the first steps and all of you who continue to walk the journey with us.”

Cerdas is a Costa Rican citizen currently residing in Paris, France.

“Ever since I heard about Alpha and its mission I always wanted to be part of it. As a musician, web developer and reggae fan I hope to keep being part of Alpha’s cause,” he said.

Despite a series of name changes over the years, the mission of the institution — which began operating in 1880 as Alpha Cottage, then changed to Alpha Industrial School, later to Alpha Boys’ School and is currently styled as Alpha Institute — has remained constant. It supports youth at risk through employment training and care for the whole person.

“The new website will help us to achieve that mission,” Alpha said.

“We encourage you to explore the new website. For visitors in Jamaica and out, the new website is easy to use and full of news and information. We hope the new interactive design will encourage you to browse and stay a little while online. If you are looking for ways to connect offline, please visit the “Get Involved” page to find out how we can stay in touch.

There are other features, which include an online shop with Alpha’s hand-crafted speciality wood pieces and classic screen printed Alpha gear; information about academic and vocational training, and community volunteerism

Alpha is a non-profit vocational and education school. We rely on the input and contributions from many sources. Alpha staff and students are grateful to Nestor Matilla and Joan Cerdas for the generous donation of this new website.