NEW YORK (June 24, 2015) – Actress Holly Robinson Peete, alongside her husband and four children, enjoyed story time with the children at the Dove Center at West End and Oreila Kelly primary schools, both of which are learning centers in Anguilla catering to children with special needs. The visit holds profound meaning for Peete, whose son Rodney is autistic. Peete read from her storybook “My Brother Charlie co-authored by her daughter Ryan then 12, which looks at autism through the eyes of a sibling. She also donated a stock of books for circulation to other special ed classes and autographed a book for each student at both schools she attended.
The visit was hosted by Renuka Harrigan, founder of the The Blossom Centre in Anguilla. It was arranged by The Britto Agency, Global Brand Strategist and Public Relations firm for the island, as a part of the “BUILD ANGUILLA” initiative conceived by the agency. BUILD ANGUILLA combines the collective strengths of Anguilla’s history, community and potential to invigorate the sustainers of its society. Its mission is to help the island’s youth become stewards of its land by nurturing and supporting their development, advancement and aspirations..
“It was an amazing experience to be in such a vibrant learning environment,” said Robinson Peete. “My family and I were welcomed with open arms, and it allowed us to fall in love with Anguilla through the lens of its people.” Robinson Peete has been active within special needs community since her son Rodney was born.
Says Marvet Britto, this visit holds special meaning for me as we continue to engage the towering talents of the influential entertainment community to help us raise funds and awareness towards continuing to empower, educate and inspire the next generation of Anguillan youth. Since introducing Actress Annie Potts to the Blossom Center, I have remained committed to ensuring the special needs community of Anguilla receives the support it deserves. Holly’s support affirms that commitment.
The Blossom Centre, founded by the Arijah Children’s Foundation, is a community-based childcare and development center that provides assistance and resources to nurture the skills and abilities of special needs children. As the name suggests, it helps these children to “blossom.”
