By Foresee Foundation
In a display of community building, NPOwer, a program of Foresee Foundation, collaborated with the Dutch Marines stationed in St. Maarten to enhance the look of Milton Peters College (MPC) with a fresh coat of paint. This repainting project not only revitalized the school’s appearance, but also highlighted the power of volunteerism and community engagement.
Over the course of three days, from September 16 to 22, the Marines took on the challenging task of painting the school’s exterior doors and walls. Their determination and skill allowed them to overcome dazzling heights, ensuring that every nook and cranny of the school received a fresh coat of paint.
The result? The school’s exterior now boasts a fresh and clean appearance, offering a welcoming sight to all. The transformation has not only beautified the school, but has also instilled a sense of pride and positivity in the MPC community. The Foundation for the Advancement of Secondary Education Windward Islands SVOBE, recognizing the significance of this project, expressed heartfelt gratitude to both the Dutch Marines and NPOwer for their exceptional dedication and contribution to the community.
What inspired the idea behind painting MPC school?
This task of painting the MPC school was carried out during the annual Windward Express exercise of 2023, which brought together marines from Aruba and Sint Maarten. This exercise presented a unique opportunity to harness the surplus of marine manpower for the benefit of significant charity projects on St Maarten. MPC was chosen as the recipient of this goodwill because they had a substantial project at hand, and the Dutch Marines are always willing to assist worthy causes.
How many Marines were involved in this project?
The Dutch Marines tackled the project with zeal, organizing themselves into three units, each comprising approximately 30-35 marines. This collective effort amounted to a total of around 100 marines who dedicated their time and expertise to paint the school.
Why do you believe supporting the school is so important?
The Dutch Marines and NPOwer believe that supporting educational institutions is of paramount importance, as quality education is essential for the growth and development of children worldwide. Well-maintained schools serve as the cornerstone of providing this education. By actively participating in projects like the MPC makeover, the Dutch Marines aim to contribute to securing a brighter future for the youth of St. Maarten, recognizing that education plays a pivotal role in achieving this goal.
Share the highlight of the day’s volunteer activity.
One of the highlights of the volunteer activity was the sense of camaraderie and teamwork that fuelled the project. Witnessing the school’s transformation after the efforts of the Dutch Marines was very rewarding. Additionally, the last group of marines took the opportunity to bond with the students by engaging in a friendly game of basketball, fostering a sense of community and shared joy.
The collaborative effort to rejuvenate the school serves as a shining example of what can be achieved when organizations come together for a common cause. This project not only brightened the school’s exterior but also left an indelible mark on all those involved. It underscores the importance of community engagement and the positive impact it can have on educational institutions, ensuring a better future for generations to come.
