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𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐬. 𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝟏𝟎𝟎 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐬. 𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐦𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐠𝐞: 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧-𝐛𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐧 𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧. On Saturday, February 28th, Sint Maarten came alive with purpose as the Impact Quest Volunteer Scavenger Hunt brought together youth teams, corporate teams, mission volunteers, and community partners for an island-wide day of service, collaboration, and healthy competition. Organized by Volunteer.sx under the Foresee Foundation and the St. Maarten Development Fund (SMDF), in partnership with the SXM Padel Club, Impact Quest officially kicked off Sint Maarten’s celebration of the United Nations-declared International Year of Volunteers 2026. 𝐀 𝐒𝐜𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐇𝐮𝐧𝐭 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐏𝐮𝐫𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐞 This was not an ordinary scavenger hunt. Teams traveled across districts completing hands-on missions hosted by local organizations and community leaders. Participants recycled, donated, painted, interviewed, researched, created, learned, and gave back, all while earning points through the Goosechase app. In addition to physical missions, teams were challenged with interactive trivia and knowledge-based questions within the app. These questions tested their understanding of volunteerism, local non-profits, community initiatives, and island history, giving participants the opportunity to expand their awareness while competing. The format blended action with education, ensuring that teams were not only moving across the island, but also growing in their understanding of the causes and organizations shaping St. Maarten. Mission hosts included Stichting Building Bridges Saving Lives, the Dutch Marines, Leaders For Change, Spaceless Gardens at Kooyman, EPIC (Environmental Protection in the Caribbean), Our Creations Arts & Crafts, That Yoda Guy, CST (Carib Swim Team), White & Yellow Cross Care Foundation, Les Fruits de Mer Association and Nature Foundation. These organizations opened their doors and designed interactive challenges that allowed participants to step directly into spaces of service and learning. Teams were not simply answering questions, they engaged with real initiatives that strengthen the island daily. 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫 A central focus of Impact Quest was ensuring youth participation. Thanks to generous sponsor support, youth teams and teams with young participants were able to participate free of charge, removing financial barriers and ensuring inclusive access. Throughout the day, young people demonstrated leadership, teamwork, creativity, and civic pride. The event reinforced a simple but powerful truth: when youth are given the opportunity to serve, they rise. 𝐏𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐲 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 Impact Quest was made possible through the support of committed sponsors and partners who believe in the power of volunteerism. Main sponsors included Samenwerkende Fondsen Caribe, SXM Padel Club, Central Bank of Curacao & St. Maarten, Philipsburg Broadcasting, the Social Economic Council (SER), WINAIR, IGY Marina, Windward Island Bank (WIB), Algemeen Pensioen Fonds (APS), Notary Boekhout, Notary Richards, Social & Health Insurances (SZV), Grant Thornton, and Brooks & Associates. Additional sponsors and partners included Telem, Oyster Bay Beach Resort, Holland House Hotel, Domino’s Pizza, Penha, Aziana Restaurant, Boolchand’s, Klass Electronics, Cost U Less, Tech Hub, Feest Café, Beauty Lounge, Come y Calla, The Playground, SXM Beauty Lab, Caribbean Gems, Avantika, Balls and Wine, Gelateria Milano, Maleona’s, SMITCO, and many more who contributed prizes, food, experiences, and logistical support to ensure a dynamic and well-executed event. 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 & 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 After four hours of missions across the island teams, volunteers, sponsors, and mission hosts came together for an afternoon of music, laughter, games, and the highly anticipated awards moment at our post Quest Social Mixer. At the Social Mixer, the focus shifted from missions to meaningful connection. Participants enjoyed friendly padel games, interactive human-sized activities, music, and shared moments that allowed teams and volunteers to engage beyond the Quest itself. Throughout the afternoon, youth attendees also had the opportunity to win prizes generously donated by sponsors, adding joy and appreciation to a day rooted in service. Taking home 1st place was We Do-Et Best Squad, whose strategy and consistency earned them the highest overall score of the day. Queens on a Quest secured 2nd place, proving that focus and teamwork make a powerful combination. Creativity was also rewarded. The Funtopia Youth Initiative Foundation (FYIF) Social Committee stood out with the Best Team Theme/Most Enthusiastic, fully embracing the spirit of Impact Quest, while Helping Hands claimed Best Decorated Car, bringing color and personality to the roads. 𝐁𝐞𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐐𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐭 Impact Quest served as the launchpad for continued engagement through Volunteer.sx, a digital platform connecting individuals and organizations to meaningful volunteer opportunities across Sint Maarten. Proceeds from the event will contribute toward the development of The VSX Youth Circle, a youth ambassador program under Volunteer.sx aimed at strengthening youth leadership in volunteerism. As St. Maarten steps into the International Year of Volunteers, Impact Quest has set the tone for the year ahead: collaboration over competition, service over spectacle, and youth at the forefront of progress. Volunteerism is not charity. It is a shared responsibility. It is pride in action. It is nation-building. For more information about upcoming initiatives or to register as a volunteer, visit Volunteer.sx online or connect with us via our Facebook and Instagram pages.

Teen Times For years, Teen Times has amplified the voices of young people on St. Maarten. As the island’s only news platform created by youth and for youth, it has become a pillar of advocacy and inclusion, ensuring that teens feel represented in community life. Beyond media, Teen Times also coordinates events and activities that reflect youth interests, giving young people opportunities to learn, connect, and contribute. We spoke with Alisah, a Teen Times member, about her experience. She explained that when she was in high school, there were very few activities available for teens. “Prom was one of the only events,” she recalled, noting that even this was organized by Teen Times. Recognizing the gap in youth offerings, the organization steps in to create safe, fun, and meaningful opportunities for youth involvement. Joining Teen Times also shifted Alisah’s perspective on civic life.“I wasn’t a politics person and wasn’t interested in politics,” she admitted,“but then I started paying attention - getting more engaged with political structures and with the community. Teen Times educates us on what’s going on in the community.” She emphasized how important it is for adults to talk to, and listen more intently, to young people. Teen Times encourages engagement in multiple ways. In addition to prom, they host Halloween parties, community service programs, and the Youth Extravaganza - one of the only youth-centered, alcohol-free Carnival events. Alisah’s personal favorite is the annual Christmas Toy Drive, where the group collects toys, school supplies, and donations to share with children in need. Through collaborations with local organizations, Teen Times not only makes these projects possible but also reinforces the value of youth inclusion. For instance, during SXM DOET, the island’s largest day of service, Teen Times partnered to increase outreach and involve more young volunteers. “One of the most effective ways to get young people involved is through social events and service projects,” Alisah explained. These activities show teens that they have a place in shaping the community while building habits of service and engagement that last beyond school years. The takeaway is clear: youth want to be heard, supported, and empowered. Teen Times has taken on that responsibility for decades, while also encouraging the wider community to do the same. By offering safe spaces, highlighting youth voices, and opening doors to meaningful participation, Teen Times continues to make St. Maarten a better, more inclusive place for its young people. To learn more about their work, visit @TeenTimesSXM on Instagram or email [email protected]. Many young people are already signing up to be part of the new school year’s team - and the invitation is open to all youth.

𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐍𝐆𝐎𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐫𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭 ~𝐕𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐫.𝐬𝐱, 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐁𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞~ In a commendable instance of corporate social responsibility, Dover Corporation, a global manufacturing conglomerate, recently partnered with local NGOs and the Volunteer.sx platform to execute a meaningful day of service on the island. The initiative, designed to have a positive impact on the community through voluntourism, brought together 65 Dover award ceremony attendees from across the globe for a hands-on volunteer activity, working alongside Leaders for Change (LFC), in collaboration with Be the Change Foundation (BTC) and Volunteer.sx (VSX). Together, these organizations planned a day of service for the Dover visitors. Wanting to make their day of service even more impactful, ahead of their arrival, Dover Corporation donated $50 per attendee to LFC, resulting in a $3,250 donation that financed the purchase of non-perishable food items, snacks, personal hygiene products, and body care essentials. Thanks to this donation, as well as contributions from local businesses such as Lucky's Cosmetics, Cost U Less, Kangroos Distributors, APS, and the staff of the NRPB, the volume of goods was further expanded. The generosity continued with Sonesta Maho Ocean Point donating the use of the Royal Islander conference room, where volunteers and NGO partners gathered to assemble 650 hygiene, snack, and school supply kits in just 1.5 hours. In addition to their on-site efforts, Dover attendees, who flew to St. Maarten from around the world, brought school supplies from their home countries which included India, China, Thailand, the USA, France, the Netherlands, Portugal, and the UK. These supplies will be distributed to local students in time for the upcoming academic year. “This initiative is a testament to what can be accomplished when the nonprofit community and private sector, be it local or international, work hand in hand,” said SMDF Program and Development Manager Melanie Choisy. “With global trends showing that travelers want to engage with communities, we're pleased that Volunteer.sx and local NGOs can provide positive community experiences for all.” Volunteers from Leaders for Change, Be The Change Foundation, Prominent Women, the CAGE Foundation, and the broader Volunteer.sx network joined forces to make the day a success. Together, they demonstrated that true impact is made when people come together across sectors, countries, and cultures for the greater good. “Leaders for Change applauds organizations that are committed to championing their Corporate Social Responsibility by engaging with communities. Through collaboration between organizations and civil society, we can enhance livelihoods and build greater resilience within communities”, said Leaders for Change Director Lesley Ashma Berkel.

By Foresee Foundation A mundane alleyway in Philipsburg is becoming an extraordinary work of art and collaboration, and you can be a part of it. On Saturday, 35 volunteers picked up brushes and rollers to start the transformation of Afloop Steeg in Philipsburg. Led by @colormesxm, Be The Change Foundation and Plastic Free SXM, this project isn’t just about beautification. It’s about impact. The mural, once completed, will be a vibrant addition to the Philipsburg Art Walk, inviting residents and visitors to explore the city in a whole new way. Their mission? To turn an ordinary passage into a breathtaking underwater world. One that not only captivates but also delivers a powerful message on environmental awareness. But to make this vision a reality, more hands are needed. Whether you're an artist, a weekend warrior, or just someone who loves to contribute, this is your chance to leave a lasting mark. Volunteers are needed for the next painting days on March 2, March 8, and March 16. Sign up now at www.volunteer.sx . “It was amazing to see so many people come out and support this project,” shared Laura Bijnsdorp, coordinator of @colormesxm. “We hope to see even more volunteers at the upcoming sessions! We expect to engage over 100 volunteers over the four days.” No experience is necessary, just a willingness to get a little paint on your hands and help bring this ambitious project to life. With the guidance of artists Nascha Kagie and Daphne Prevoo, every brushstroke will contribute to a masterpiece that highlights the importance of sustainability. Backed by Plastic Free SXM, St. Maarten Development Fund, LICCOM Construction, Sherwin Williams, St. Maarten Tourism Bureau, the Government of Sint Maarten, Cultuurfonds Caribisch Gebied, and Seaview Beach Hotel, this initiative is part of a larger effort to create engaging public spaces that inspire action. When finished, the alleyway will be more than just a photo-worthy spot. It will stand as a reminder that art can spark change, encouraging both residents and tourists to rethink plastic use and protect St. Maarten’s marine life. Future plans! “We plan to include suspending 50 sea creatures crafted from recycled plastics, a collaboration with Perpetual Plastics, bringing an immersive element to the space.” Grab a brush and sign up today at www.volunteer.sx . For updates, follow @colormesxm on Instagram or visit www.facebook.com/bethechangesxm and www.facebook.com/plasticfreesxm .

Hey NPO's! Are you ready to seize the golden opportunity and claim amazing teambuilding prizes for both you and your team? VSX has partnered with the following businesses to strengthen our volunteer-based communities and reward our hardworking non-profit organizations: Honey Pot Reserve Amsterdam Cheese & Liquor Store Zee Best Breakfast & Bakeshop This collaboration aims to reward organizations that post and successfully execute the highest number of opportunities between September 1st, 2023, and December 1st, 2023. What steps do you need to take to participate in the giveaway? Ensure your organization is registered on the www.volunteer.sx portal. Post and successfully execute a minimum of 3 opportunities on the VSX portal. Register your organization with the NPOwer database. Hurry over to www.volunteer.sx and sign up today to start posting opportunities! Together, we can make a difference.

We prevent food waste and fight hunger on St. Maarten. Our target group consists of people who do not (or not enough) have access to sufficient food each day

Player Development St. Maarten is a safe place of some of the island's vulnerable students. Learning in a interactive way.

Everyone has a skill that they can share as a volunteer. Here we see a perfect example of an art teacher, at first apprehensive about if he can help, but by the end of his time volunteering with stroke survivors, he realized he made a greater impact than he had expected. Check out his TED talk by copying the link below to your browser: https://www.ted.com/talks/graham_shaw_why_people_believe_they_can_t_draw/transcript?utm_source=facebook.com&utm_content=2021-12-22&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=social&fbclid=IwAR2MycDqr8vMVfT-l8-HN7AZWnx8RLLVHe2ANT-98yZAkcNv5IKL_jekxDM

2021 Theme: Volunteer now for our common future We aim to inspire people, whether they are decision makers or citizens of this world, to take action NOW for people and the planet. The United Nations Volunteers Programme ( UNV ) coordinates International Volunteer Day on 5 December every year to recognize and promote the tireless work, not just of UN Volunteers, but of volunteers across the globe. Every day, volunteers dedicate time and effort to ensure the inclusion of those often left behind, drive climate action and advance the Sustainable Development Goals ( SDGs ). When people are encouraged to get involved in solving problems, the solutions are more likely to be feasible and lasting. Volunteers engage communities and build a people-centric movement to help build a better and safer future for us all. For the generations of TOMORROW, we must take responsibility for the changes needed to build a better future NOW. Encouraging, recognizing and promoting volunteerism is an important part of creating a more equal and inclusive future for communities and worldwide. In the lead-up to #IVD2021, let us celebrate the contributions of the millions who #volunteernow. Volunteering is giving, sharing, standing by others, supporting causes you care about and creating a better future for everyone. https://www.un.org/en/observances/volunteer-day?utm_source=sendinblue&utm_campaign=II90%20-%20Island%20Innovation&utm_medium=email

Launch of volunteer.sx in St. Maarten