A dedication ceremony was held at Family Centre to celebrate its first Founder’s Day, marking the birthday of Martha Dismont, who formed the organisation in 1990.

The event on Wednesday — soon after World Children’s Day — honoured the inspirational social worker and counsellor, who passed away in July, aged 66.

A portrait of Ms Dismont taken by sister-in-law Michelle Dismont-Frazzoni, a photographer, was unveiled at the charity’s Sunshine League House.

It was accompanied by a commemorative plaque that said: “This reception area is dedicated in loving memory of Family Centre Founder Martha Ann Dismont, November 22, 1956 – July 13, 2023.”

The charity’s Founder's Day, which is to become an annual event, brought together Family Centre staff, board members and the family of Ms Dismont, including her daughter, Aruna Dismont; sisters-in-law Michelle Dismont-Frazzoni, Sonia Burgess and Kari White; and brother-in-law Elis Frazzoni.

Sandy De Silva, the Family Centre executive director, said the ceremony generated “so many mixed emotions — deep sadness at losing a legend and loved-one way too soon, as well as peace”.

She added: “There is peace in being able to celebrate Martha’s legacy by carrying on her life’s work and ensuring that families who receive services at Family Centre and the next generations of Family Centre board members, staff and partners will know our founder, what she stood for, and how she shaped the philosophy, values, mission, vision and fabric of this organisation.”

Ms Burgess expressed gratitude on behalf of the family,

She said: “Words can't express the thanks that we feel and the love that will go on."

Dr De Silva reflected on the dual significance of the week.

She said: “Today, November 22, was chosen for this ceremony, as it is Martha’s birthday, and it does not just seem like a coincidence that Martha’s birthday is only two days after World Children’s Day.

“The Convention on the Rights of the Child notes that at a minimum every child needs protection from harm, unconditional support and to have their basic needs met to grow into an emotionally healthy adult.

“Our founder believed in the same thing and advocated for these rights every day and night.

“Every year, Martha looked forward to celebrating World Children’s Day; so, it is most fitting to have our Founder’s Day on Martha’s birthday, close to this very special date in the calendar also celebrating children.”

Dr De Silva added: “Martha made this world so much better for the lives of children.

“Today, we salute Martha Dismont by dedicating this reception area that welcomes children, teens and their families into our home of healing, hope and connection to her memory.”

Ms Dismont tirelessly advocated for Bermuda’s vulnerable, particularly children, and was appointed a Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire in 2016 for her decades of service to the island.

She stepped down as executive director at the charity in 2020 but remained close to it.