News

After nearly two decades at its previous location, Sunrise Adult Training Centre has now been re-located to Eden House in George Town. 

At an official opening on Wednesday evening, 13 April 2022, the Hon. André Ebanks, Minister for Social Development, was joined by the Hon. Deputy Premier Chris Saunders, Parliamentary Secretary for Social Development Heather Bodden, numerous staff and clients of Sunrise, as well as staff from the Ministry of Investment, Innovation and Social Development, to participate in an opening ceremony for this new location.  The ceremony was designed purposefully for all to participate, including a moving rendition of the Cayman Islands national song using Makaton signs.*

“The interim premises for Sunrise Adult Training Centre are one step forward in Government’s ambitious plan to reform and modernise social development in the Cayman Islands – and to leave no one behind,” said the Honourable Minister.

“The new premises embody Government’s commitment to our community, in the form of a tangible investment in physical infrastructure and a central location that dramatically will improve Sunrise’s offerings for current clientele while expanding its capacity to enroll more clients. I commend the Ministry and all involved in this relocation, including the numerous donations that came from the community. I look forward to supporting the next initiative, which is to create a permanent and bespoke location for Sunrise,” he added.  

Sunrise clients are adults over age 18 who have a broad range of special needs. By providing vocational training, therapeutic services, case management services and a recreational day programme, the Centre aims to enable all of its clients to become empowered, productive and fully included members of the community.  Currently, the Centre supports 35 clients in its day programme, and 23 clients who work in paid employment in the community (see press release link below for a range of testimonials from employers).  There are 22 members of staff. This year, Sunrise is celebrating its 35th year in operation.

In May 2021, Sunrise was assigned to the Cayman Islands Government’s Ministry of Investment, Innovation and Social Development.

Kim Voaden, Director of Sunrise, said “Our interim location at Eden House is an important and notable juncture in the development of Sunrise Adult Training Centre. In aid of achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients, this central location enables us better to serve them and for them to benefit from the numerous programs and services that we offer.  We look forward to working collaboratively with Minister Ebanks, the Ministry and the community to create a permanent home for Sunrise.”