At the 180 Degree Foundation (180DF), our objective is to transform lives through empowerment, education, and collaboration. Our mission to uplift families and foster a positive environment for children, closely aligns with the goals of the SO-JUST Betta Project, being implemented by Children First Agency (CFA). This initiative, started in January 2024 and funded by the United Nations Development Fund (UNDP), aims to promote awareness of children’s rights and parental responsibilities, increase understanding of court processes, reduce disruptive behaviour in children, and improve children’s basic reading, writing, and other remedial education areas.
A Natural Partnership for Greater Impact
We believe that effective parenting is an essential foundation for ensuring that children are educated and well-adjusted. We, therefore, have a strategic focus on empowering parents to actively enhance their parenting skills and employability; fostering an environment that nurtures their child’s learning potential, overall well-being, growth and development, and harnessing effective parenting as a source of nurturing resiliency and social responsibility in their children.
We were happy to partner with CFA to deliver targeted sessions to the parents at St. Jude’s Primary School on September 18, 2024. The 180DF has adopted St Jude’s, and focuses its efforts on positively impacting all aspects of the learning environment at the school.
Successful Parenting Session at St. Jude’s Primary School
Thanks to CFA’s expertise, as well as the strong partnership we have the schools’ administration and the Parent Teachers Association (PTA), we were able to bring over 130 eager parents together for an impactful afternoon of learning and dialogue. The session was thoughtfully structured into four small groups, each facilitated by trained Parenting Facilitators and Child Rights experts. Using resources such as the Family Focus Guide, these sessions addressed critical topics including the role of social media in parenting, effective communication, positive discipline methods, and an overview of children’s rights in Jamaica.
With additional support from Restorative Justice and Child Diversion Officers, participants were able to engage deeply with the content, sharing their personal experiences and stories. Games and skits were incorporated to keep the atmosphere interactive and engaging, and these methods were highly effective in facilitating meaningful conversations. Parents felt comfortable enough to discuss the challenges they face, particularly the long-lasting effects of childhood trauma, which many acknowledged had influenced their own parenting styles
As a result of these discussions, several referrals were made to appropriate agencies for further support—demonstrating that these sessions not only provide education, but also serve as a bridge to much-needed services.
The feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive. Many parents expressed their appreciation for both the content and the format, noting how engaging and relevant the sessions were. In fact, several participants requested more sessions, signalling a clear demand for ongoing support and education in these areas.
Looking Forward to Stronger Collaboration
The 180 Degree Foundation remains committed to strengthening its partnerships with other like-minded organizations. We recognize that no single organization can address complex social issues alone. By working together, we can leverage diverse perspectives and expertise, ensuring a holistic approach to problem-solving and make a lasting difference in the communities we serve.
This partnership is just the beginning. The results so far inspire us to keep pushing forward in our mission to create meaningful change, and we look forward to continued success with our other community partners. Together, we are stronger, and together, we can create a brighter future for Jamaica’s children.
Khemar Kennedy, Restorative Justice Officer and Kimiko Dennis – Children First Agency, in discussion with Mrs. Vernon, President of the St. Jude’s Primary School PTA, prior to the start of the parenting workshop on September 18, 2024.