Understanding Family Dynamics in Protecting Children
Editorial: Family is the foundation of our lives
Family is the foundation of our lives and the cornerstone of our society. It is where we learn important values and morals that shape us as individuals and contribute to…
Fostering and adoption on Sint Maarten
Kimberly Dort-Brown, Head of the CoG, and Meredith Concincion, Foster Care Coordinator of SJIS, share the ins and outs about fostering and adoption on Sint Maarten: The Court of Guardianship…
Experts discuss the consequences of teen pregnancy
Milangela Francisca, a social worker, and Janique Kolfin-Baly, an educational psychologist, have been guiding young people for the past 14 years. They are both currently assigned to the Sundial School…
Damali Bryson, on becoming a foster parent
On a regular day in January, while meeting with my colleague, I received an unexpected phone call from the Foundation Judicial Institute St. Maarten (SJIS): “Are you willing to foster…
The power of grandma’s love and support
Column by Aisaiah Nunes My grandmother’s kindness and support have been a constant source of strength for me. Without her, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Growing up in…
The determination and creativity of Kevin Hanson
“My girls inspire me to learn and do new things,” states Kevin Hanson, single father to two girls, Kelina ‘KK’ and Kera ‘Kiki’, ages 10 and 12. Kevin works at…
Shirley Hilairè’s journey of single-motherhood
Shirley is a single mother to her sons, ages 8 and 12. For the past eight years, she has been the sole provider for her family. “They have been my…
Personal Story: Defying Stereotypes
“Some people judge us because we are gay and have a child, but we don’t let that bother us anymore,” share Julian Browne, wife to Jacky Browne and mother of…
A teen mom’s resilience and growth
When Allia was 14 years old, she felt she might be pregnant. She initially pushed away that feeling, hoping it was not true. When she finally took a test, she…
Processing trauma to create a healthy family dynamic
What is a healthy family dynamic for a child? Open communication, quality time, and a safe environment within a family structure are often said to be vital to raising a…