GREAT BAY--The Windward Islands Bank, WIB, has supported the upgrade of the playground at the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex as part of its continued commitment to corporate social responsibility and investment in children, families and healthy communities across St. Maarten.
The project developed out of discussions between WIB and the National Sports Institute, NSI, about opportunities for the Bank to support community-focused initiatives. During those discussions, the need to improve the playground at the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex emerged as a project that aligned with WIB’s commitment to supporting the community.
As one of St. Maarten’s most frequently used recreational facilities, the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex serves children and families from districts across the country. Its central location and regular use by young children made the playground a natural area for investment.
A soft handover of the upgraded playground was held in the presence of the President and CEO of Maduro & Curiel’s Bank, MCB, management of the Windward Islands Bank and representatives of the National Sports Institute.
The gathering recognized the collaboration between WIB and NSI in bringing the project to fruition and reaffirmed their shared commitment to creating spaces that contribute positively to the development of St. Maarten’s young people.
“At WIB, we believe that strong communities are built through meaningful partnerships,” said Quinten Fraai, President & CEO of MCB. “When NSI shared its vision for improving the playground facilities at Raoul Illidge, it immediately resonated with us. Children deserve safe, accessible, and enjoyable spaces to play, learn, and grow, and we are pleased to contribute to a project that will benefit families across St. Maarten.”
The playground upgrade represents Phase One of the initiative and includes the installation of new playground equipment designed to provide a safe and engaging environment for younger children.
WIB also welcomed plans for additional improvements to the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex in the future. Building on its initial investment, the Bank will explore opportunities to support a second phase of the playground initiative focused on the addition of shade structures and finishing enhancements intended to improve comfort and usability for children and their families.
NSI Director Jisk Goslinga highlighted the importance of playgrounds in supporting different aspects of childhood development.
“Playgrounds play an important role in a child's development. Through play, children build not only physical skills, but also confidence, coordination, problem-solving, and social skills,” Goslinga said.
“This new structure provides many different ways to climb, balance, crawl, explore, and interact, helping children develop these skills while simply having fun. With the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex welcoming so many people every day, this investment will have a meaningful impact on a large number of children and families in our community. We are very grateful to WIB for making this possible.”
WIB extended its appreciation to the National Sports Institute and all stakeholders who contributed to making the project possible and said it looks forward to seeing the upgraded playground enjoyed by children and families for years to come.
