PHILIPSBURG:--- After two full days of working under the hot sun, NIA's volunteers came out in droves to complete the beautiful, vibrant mural stretching along the Pondfill Road and Long Wall Roads. In cooperation with SXM Doet, the National Institute of the Arts (NIA) was one of many foundations across the Dutch Kingdom to participate in this years Doet- two national days of volunteering. The spirit of volunteerism was on proud display at NIA where kids of all ages, along with adults came forth and truly exemplify the essence Doet.
"The kids are very excited, they've shown up both days and have been integral to how well the mural looks. It's very interesting how art brings people out, pulls people in and gets them involved- it's hard to stay away from the vibrancy of the colors along with the excitement and energy permeating the space." Albina Matuzko (NIA Staff)
A highlight of the day was when Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Rita Bourne-Gumbs showed up, grabbed a brush and stepped right in with the rest of the volunteers. Her presence reaffirmed that volunteering is for everyone. No person is ever too little or too big to get involved with their community and become a volunteer.
NIA would truly like to thank everyone who came out and showed up to help paint the mural. Because of all the helping hands, this year's SXM Doet was a huge success and we look forward to creating more opportunities for volunteers to partake throughout the year. Gratitude is also extended to the creators of SXM Doet for the opportunity to be a host site for this years Doet.