Some one thousand (1000) Providenciales residents are set to benefit from the resurfacing and renovation of the Juba Sound Basketball Court following a partnership between the Sandals Foundation and the Turks and Caicos Sports Commission.

The project, valued at some US $50,000, supports residents of the Juba Sound, Long Bay, and Grace Bay areas, as well as students at the neighbouring Mills Institute and A Louise Garland High School providing a safe space for healthy recreation and socialising.

“Community courts – be it basketball, netball, tennis or badminton provide an essential service in helping residents stay active, exercise, build community spirit and support mental health,” says James McAnally, Managing Director at Beaches Turk and Caicos Resort, “At the Sandals Foundation we believe in investing in the holistic development of our communities and residents of all ages. The renovation of the Juba Sound Basketball Court will help in this regard.”

Speaking at the recent park handover ceremony, Jarrett D. Forbes, CEO of the Turks and Caicos Sports Commission said, “the renovation of the Juba Sound Basketball Court was necessary to provide a safe, high-quality recreational space for the community. The existing court had deteriorated over time, with surface wear, inadequate fencing, and insufficient lighting making it less accessible and less safe for users. Given the growing interest in basketball and community sports, the renovation was essential to ensure that residents—especially youth—have a well-maintained facility where they can play, train, and engage in positive activities.”

Forbes added: “The renovated court will have a significant impact on the Juba Sound community and surrounding areas. It will provide a safe and structured environment for young people to develop their basketball skills, stay active, and engage in healthy competition. Additionally, the court will serve as a community hub, fostering social interaction, mentorship, and a sense of pride among residents. With added features such as dusk-to-dawn lighting and enhanced fencing, the facility will be safer and more accessible for extended use. Ultimately, this renovation supports youth development, promotes physical well-being, and strengthens community bonds.”

Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Social Services Hon. Rachel Taylor said, “this mission is a culmination of public, private partnership where the youth of the Turks and Caicos Islands are the winners. We are grateful for this support as we commend the work of the Sandals Foundation and Beaches Turks and Caicos resort of helping to foster a safer and healthier community for our youth.”

“This partnership goes beyond the just sports for this community. This is the first phase of development for the social and physical development of our youth. We stand proud of beneficiaries of volunteerism from our partners the Sandals Foundation in community development and education for the youth of the Caribbean. We are looking forward to the continuation of other developments that will help u maintain our beautiful by nature, Turks and Caicos Islands,” Taylor noted.

Across the Caribbean, the Sandals Foundation supports the creation and maintenance of community spaces that facilitate youth sports and nurture the health and wellbeing of residents.