The University College of the Cayman Islands (UCCI) and the Poinciana Rehabilitation Centre came together to launch “Growing Wellness Together”, an initiative aimed at enhancing the well-being and daily experiences of residents.
Marking the end of World Social Work Month on 31 March, UCCI Social Work Programme students led a full day of structured activities at the island's long-term residential mental health facility. From gardening and creative arts to group work, baking, and gentle physical wellness sessions, the goal was to give residents meaningful opportunities to connect, express themselves, and feel a greater sense of purpose in their daily lives.
"This initiative reflects the Social Work Programme’s commitment to supporting residents’ psychosocial wellbeing while providing meaningful experiential learning for our students," said Ms. Felicia Robinson, Director of Social Work, UCCI. "Through creative, therapeutic, and wellness-focused activities, we are fostering spaces that empower residents, enhance social connection, and support recovery."
Ms. Nanalie Cover, Acting President and CEO of UCCI, added, "Growing Wellness Together exemplifies the transformative impact of social work in our community. By strengthening partnerships between academic institutions and mental health services, we are advancing holistic care and contributing to the overall wellbeing of Caymanians."
Dr. Marc Lockhart, Clinical Director of the Poinciana Rehabilitation Centre and Chairman of the government-appointed Mental Health Advisory Council, welcomed the partnership. "Initiatives like this enrich the lives of our residents and strengthen the therapeutic environment we are working hard to build. We look forward to deepening our relationship with UCCI for the benefit of all individuals in our care."
The initiative aligned with the theme of World Social Work Month 2026 "Uplift, Defend, Transform", emphasising strengths-based engagement, ethical and trauma-informed practice, and community-oriented support. It also provided UCCI Social Work students with hands-on opportunities to develop competencies in psychiatric social work, group facilitation, advocacy, and community collaboration.
UCCI and the Poinciana Rehabilitation Centre plan to sustain the initiative through ongoing wellness programming, collaborative activities, and student engagement, ensuring long-term benefits for residents and professional development for social work students.
For media enquiries, contact marketing@ucci.edu.ky
