The Family Forum is a community-based group that was formed in response to a clarion call by Martha Dismont, Executive Director of Family Centre to discuss the violence that was escalating within our community in early 2009. This year will be the 10th anniversary of the formation of this grass roots group of individuals who continue to meet monthly, problem solve and provide assistance within the community in which they live.

The group plans to kick off their 10th anniversary celebrations with a community walk themed ‘Walking with a Purpose ‘. The walk will start at 6pm at Union Street Parking Lot ending on Front Street at Harbour Nights.

“The Family Forum has chosen the International Day of Families, Wednesday, May 15 to celebrate ‘Families’ and our 10th anniversary and we are encouraging families and friends that want to celebrate the importance of ‘family’, and their family to come out and walk with us. The fun walk will have road safety marshals along the route”, explains Kenlyn Smith, Family Forum Chairperson. Harbour Night will also feature a Family Forum information booth and a game zone that families can come and participate in traditional games - free of charge.

The Family Forum is a community-based service of the Family Centre. “The Family Centre is ecstatic to see how this group has continued to grow and achieve important personal goals and share the skills they have learned at Family Centre to assist families in their communities”, states Family Centre Executive Director, Martha Dismont. She also said, “We also would like to thank all the supporters of this event, who have supplied prizes and games. We are especially grateful to the Bermuda Chamber of Commerce whose support allows us to celebrate the International Day of Families on the day at Harbour Nights, Wednesday, May 15.”

Family Forum’s aim is to support ‘family’ and residents through difficult times, in a welcoming environment, with resources and problem-solving tools. Family Forum is encouraging families to find ways to have fun together and to create wonderful family memories. It is hoped that families will engage in more family activities at home with friends and neighbors and strengthen our family and community bonds. Family Forum meets once per month on a Tuesday evening at Family Centre, located at Sunshine League House on King Street, Hamilton.

For more information on Family Centre’s Family Forum visit us on www.tfc.bm or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

• Press release from Family Centre