Video: Jevon Williams Appointed CPC Chairman

Jevon Williams has been announced as the newly appointed Chairman of the Coalition for the Protection of Children [CPC] replacing Sheelagh Cooper.

The Board of Directors includes Deputy Chair, Dwayne Caines, Treasurer, Judith Knight, Dr. Ryan Bates, Susannah Frith, Lyndsay Forrest, Mark Clark, Maleeka Robinson, Terry Griffiths and Tony McWilliam. Staff members include Kelly Hunt, Executive Director, Rachael Dill, Lead Social Worker, and Accountant and Compliance Officer, Caroline Deevy.

Coalition for the Protection of Children Chairman Jevon Williams said, “The Coalition for the Protection of Children or the CPC has existed since 1992 with the core responsibility of advocating on behalf of children and their families. It is a responsibility that we have had for the last 25 years and we have taken this responsibility very seriously. Today we stand proud and humbled with the impact the organization has made in Bermuda.

“At the core and heart of the CPC has been a strong, bold, innovative and determined woman. A woman that had a vision of a better Bermuda for All. I speak of non-other than Sheelagh Cooper, a woman that has put her time, talent, and resources into founding the CPC.

“Under her leadership the CPC was instrumental in developing the New Protection of Children Legislation 2000 and successfully lobbing for new day care regulations. In addition, she helped to establish the Inter-Agency Committee for Children and Families, the child abuse hotline, the food assistance program, and the free food initiative.

“In April 2018, Sheelagh expressed to the board that she was formally stepping down as chair, and with a great sense of regret that decision was accepted. Thankfully, we do not lose her expertise as she will remain an active Director.

“Sheelagh, on Behalf of the Board, I would like to thank you for your tireless work as an advocate for children and families. You have been a gift to this community and we are better because of you.

“Again thank you.

“I would also like to use this as an opportunity to introduce and thank the Board of Directors and Staff. Deputy Chair, Dwayne Caines, Treasurer, Judith Knight, Dr. Ryan Bates, Susannah Frith, Lyndsay Forrest, Mark Clark, Maleeka Robinson, Terry Griffiths and Tony McWilliam. Other members of our team are Kelly Hunt, Executive Director, Rachael Dill, Lead Social Worker, and Accountant and Compliance Officer, Caroline Deevy. Without you, we would not be able to effectively carry our mandates. Thank you for your hard work and dedication.

“With the CPC theme of Listening, Empowering, and Healing, we recognize we still have a way to go.”

Speaking on CPC’s Vision and Programs, Executive Director Kelly Hunt said “I would also like to thank Mrs Cooper for her dedication to this organization and our community over the years. We are indeed grateful for her service and continued support.

“At the Coalition we provide services which address critical but unmet needs in order to ensure that all children grow up in a safe, healthy and nurturing environment. We aim to encourage self-sufficiency through programs and services that work to empower families.

“We envision a Bermuda where families can provide for their basic needs and one where equal access to opportunity allows children to fulfil their potential.

“Through research and data collection, the CPC tracks areas where families struggle and require assistance. We formulate goals and strategies which aim to address root cause of the issues that we face as a community.

“Programs include:

• Hardship support/life coaching
• Speak Up Be Safe [preventative education]
• Breakfast for Every Child in 12 schools
• Advocacy for children’s rights and protection”

Mr. Williams went on to say “As you can see, we are committed to Bermuda’s children and families and we will do our part to speak for those with no voice, stand for those with no strength and continue to advocate for our constituents.”

#BermudianChildren

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