Reviving Blue Hills community landmark

(August 14, 2012) – The Sandals Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Beaches Resorts, joined forces with several companies in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos, to renovate the Fuller & Clementina Walkin Children’s Park in Blue Hills, breathing life into a community landmark.

The park, which was originally built by longtime Blue Hills resident Anthony Walkin – the great-grandson of Fuller & Clementina after whom the park is named – reopened in time for its 10th anniversary celebration. The opening attracted community members, who all came to see the beautifully remodeled playground, which is fully equipped with picnic tables, slides, swings, sea-saws and a volleyball court.

Earlier this year, the Foundation teamed up with Department of Environmental and Maritime Affairs (DEMA) to plan the park’s renovation. Henry Wilson, director of DEMA, commented on the partnership and the benefit of providing a playground for the Blue Hills community.

“DEMA is extremely happy to team up with the Sandals Foundation and the people of Blue Hills in developing and maintaining the parl. This showcases a public-private partnership where the ultimate winners are the people and the environment,” he said.

Blue Hills resident and community leader, Tamera Robinson noted that when she was asked by DEMA to be the community liaison for the refurbishment and the park’s future operations, she happily accepted.

“I am pleased to be a part of such a worthy community project as the park is a significant part of Blue Hills’ history,” she said. “The community of Blue Hills is very appreciative of the initative shown by the Sandals Foundation in making the investment to refurbish the park. We are encouraged by this partnership with a corporate citizen who understands the importance of community and its role in the country’s total development.”

The Sandals Foundation was able to attract the support of several prominent businesses and leaders of corporate community including corporate donors such as the Building Materials Do It Center, TCI Paints, Pelican Designs, Provo Electric, CBMS, S. Walkin & Son Marina, Jays Skips, Island Stairworks and Dock Direct.

Blue Hills is home to two high schools, one of which the Sandals Foundation sponsors, as well as three primary schools and countless families. The Sandals Foundation works closely to provide support and assistance to communities, civic leaders and neighbors, implementing programs that will have the most sustainable and positive impact in the Turks & Caicos Islands.