COMMUNITY EDUCATION PROGRAM
The Community Education Program brings community members together to learn about the topics they are curious about. This can be in the form of Learning Circles led by an enthusiast about that topic or Workshops led by experts who want to share what they know with interested community members. Scroll down to see what sessions are available this month.
PROGRAMS: DECEMBER 2024
STRIVING FOR SECURE ATTACHMENTS
Facilitator: Debbie Richardson
Workshop Overview
This workshop about Attachment Theory is designed for soon-to-be parents and parents of children ages 0-6 years old.
Workshop Description
In this insightful workshop, led by Debbie Richardson, parents (and expectant parents) of children ages 0-6, will learn about Attachment Theory for the sake of building secure and healthy attachments with, and in, their children. Through practical strategies and expert guidance, you’ll learn how to foster emotional connections, support your child’s developmental needs, and create a nurturing environment that promotes trust and resilience. Whether you’re a new parent or looking to strengthen your bond with your child, this workshop will equip you with the tools to cultivate a secure attachment that supports lifelong well-being.
Workshop Description
- Fostering emotional connections with your child
- Supporting your child’s developmental needs
- Creating a nurturing environment that promotes family trust and resilience
Facilitator Bio
Coach Debbie M. A. Richardson is a certified life coach and EMDR certified. REBT certified. As a graduate of the Academy for Coaching and Counselling of the Netherlands, I have created Real Insight Counseling and Coaching as a safe space for my clients to explore possibilities. My talent for helping create cohesive communities inspired me to look at the dynamics of attachment theory as a resource to bring empathy and collaboration to the wellness industry. I approach each session with this as the basis of my coaching. Included in my approach is bringing awareness to how outcomes are affected by temperament, health, poverty and racism, sexism, and peer pressure – and not just your parents. Insight into how you affect your world is the key to self-empowerment—identifying behaviors and strategies that sabotage vital relationships. As your coach, I will journey with you to this place of self-awareness and personal growth.
Dec 3, 2024 · 5pm – 7pm Fee: $20 Location: MPC
THE MASCULINE MINDSET:
DEVELOPING HIGH VALUE HABITS AND FINDING PURPOSE
Facilitator: Dwight Williams
Learning Circle Overview
A space for men to discuss building a life grounded in purpose, resilience, and self-mastery.
Learning Circle Description
This Learning Circle is dedicated to helping men build a life grounded in purpose, resilience, and self-mastery. Participants will explore the pillars associated with living a meaningful life—physical health, mental and emotional well-being, relationships, and personal growth—and learn how to develop daily habits that strengthen these areas. Through guided self-reflection, practical goal-setting, and discussions on character development, attendees will clarify their values and embrace the journey of becoming a man who contributes positively to family, community, and society.
Learning Takeaways
- Building character and self-awareness
- Contributing more meaningfully to your family and community
- Creating your own roadmap to navigate personal growth and masculinity
Facilitator Bio
Dwight Williams is a seasoned financial consultant and CFO with over 20 years of experience in finance, corporate management, and accounting. He also consults for the NRPB, supporting small businesses on the island. A fitness coach for over a decade, Dwight is passionate about holistic well-being, blending financial expertise with wellness coaching. As a devoted husband and father of 20+ years, he finds purpose in family, leadership, and service to his community. Dwight is committed to empowering others, inspiring men to lead lives of purpose and impact.
Dec 12, 2024 · 6:30pm – 8pm Fee: $5 Location: MPC
THE ALBATROSS EXERCISE
Facilitator: Nelly Blaise
Learning Circle Overview
This session is a simulation and social experiment followed by a discussion to raise awareness on personal stereotypes about other cultures & genders.
Learning Circle Description
Albatross is an opportunity to learn by observation and experience. In this simulation, you are confronted with the power structures and differences that shape societies. There are two parts to the exercise. The first part consists of performing a ceremonial greeting between members of an imaginary culture called Albatross and foreigners. No onlookers. The second part consists of an extended discussion to analyze the ceremony in detail, what everyone observed and experienced.
Learning Takeaways
- Using observation and dialogue as a tool for deeper insight
- Building empathy through immersion in a new ‘culture’
- Understanding how societal norms influence our biases
Facilitator Bio
Jean-Oneli Blaise is an advocate for youth empowerment with a double master’s in Business Administration & Team Management from the European Business School of Barcelona. His research on educators as environmental ambassadors has been published by Emerald Publishing. He authored Kushobi Origins, a graphic novel featured in local institutions and international anthologies. As a former Project Manager for the St. Maarten Youth Brigade, he worked to uplift at-risk youth and proposed youth-focused policies to the European Parliament. Jean-Oneli continues to create opportunities for empowerment through education, writing, and advocacy.
Dec 13, 2024 · 6pm – 8pm Fee: $5 Location: VSS Office