By Foresee Foundation
In the face of persistent funding challenges, St. Maarten’s non-profit sector continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience and determination, according to Jose Sommers co-Founder and Director of the Foresee Foundation. She brings over three decades of experience to her assessment of the island’s non-profit landscape. “With over 34 years in this sector, I have witnessed first-hand the challenges and triumphs of non-profits where ‘Drive and Passion’ are the keywords.”
Complex funding environment
The funding environment on St. Maarten is multifaceted, with various sources available, each presenting its own set of hurdles. Sommers highlighted key contributors, including the St. Maarten Development Fund (SMDF), Samenwerkende Fondsen Cariben (SFC), Resources for Community Resilience (R4CR), and EU and Cultural funds.
“The small size of our island can be both a blessing and a curse,” Sommers explained. “It fosters close-knit communities where grassroots initiatives can thrive, but it also presents challenges in managing resources and gaining sustainable support. By creating a master plan that aligns the goals of donors and non-profits, we can maximize our impact and ensure that our efforts are greater than the sum of their parts. Accountability and transparency, supported by data, are key to this collaborative approach.
Political challenges
Sommers also pointed out the impact of the political climate on non-profit sustainability. “The St. Maarten government plays a crucial role as a subsidy grantor. However, the political climate and lack of a cohesive vision pose significant challenges, with limited transparency on structural funding.” The public sector, often plagued by political instability and a lack of long-term vision, struggles to provide consistent support to non-profits. This environment creates a sense of insecurity among the population and drives passionate individuals to take the lead in addressing community needs.
Optimism despite obstacles
Despite these obstacles, Sommers remains optimistic about the sector’s potential. She emphasized the importance of collaboration in driving positive change, citing the Foresee Foundation’s focus on “communication, collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking” as essential 21st-century skills. As a former educator, she believes in the power of people’s stories and the connections they create. These narratives bring out the best in individuals and help transform the island. Often, the contributions of volunteers from all walks of life go unnoticed, yet they are the backbone of our community’s resilience.
Looking forward
Sommers expressed gratitude for those involved in the non-profit sector: “I am immensely proud of the fantastic ‘givers’ and ‘getters’ who make our work possible. Together, we continue to make St. Maarten a better place for the community.” Her message is one of unity and perseverance, calling for continued collaboration to create a brighter future for St. Maarten. “Thank you for your dedication and commitment to our respective causes. Let us continue to work together, leveraging our strengths and resources, to create a brighter future for St. Maarten.”
