Aimee Griles-Carino The Force of Frederiksted
There is an earth-shaking force taking place in Frederiksted nowadays. It’s not a new force, but a renewed force that is looking to reshape the social and cultural landscape of Frederiksted and bring back the glory days of a town that once shone bright on the island of St. Croix. This force goes by the name of Our Town Frederiksted (OTF), and one of the main movers and shakers of that organization is their Executive Director, Aimee Griles-Carino.
“I am passionate about fostering positive change and community empowerment,” states Ms. Griles-Carino.
Born and raised in Frederiksted, Aimee has a deep passion for the town’s history and love for the community. She brings 15 years of experience in strategic communications, marketing, project management, and community outreach to the role of Executive Director.
Before joining the organization, she served as Project Director and Communications & Outreach Coordinator at Legal Services of the Virgin Islands, Inc., where she successfully managed a Territory-wide fraud prevention program and was a founding member of the Virgin Islands Healthcare Fraud Task Force.
Ms. Griles-Carino holds an Associate’s Degree in History from Georgia Perimeter College, a Bachelor’s Degree in Film & Video Production from Georgia State University, and a Master’s Degree in Media Communications from Webster Graduate School at Regent’s University London. Her diverse background and steadfast commitment to community development are invaluable to OTF.
Over the years, Our Town Frederiksted, Inc. has been deeply engaged in a variety of projects aimed at revitalizing Frederiksted’s Historic District and enhancing the community’s quality of life. One notable project that embraces OTF’s commitment to fostering unity and community pride and positive change was the February 2021 Grand Opening of Midre Cummings Park in Frederiksted. The culmination of this achievement was a true celebration of dreams, passion and the pride of being a Virgin Islander.
Midre Cummings, was one of the heroes of the 2001 World Series and a proud Virgin Islander. Cummings spoke passionately at the Grand Opening about the importance of following one’s dream and the profound meaning of being deeply connected to the Virgin Islands. No doubt his words resonated with the audience, inspiring hope and determination.
“Dream. And your dream is going to allow you to get your education,” Cummings told the assembled crowd. “Once these kids are inspired to become a Governor or a baseball player, or a fireman or policewoman, they will get the education to fulfill their dream.”
What made the accomplishment of the event truly remarkable was the collaboration of the Government, private sector, nonprofit organizations like OTF, and dedicated volunteers. The opening of the children’s park showcased how a shared vision and a collective effort can have the power to transform a community. Midre Cummings Park became a shining example of what can be achieved when different sectors of society come together to create something wonderful for the community.
“The project was a testament to OTF’s dedication to preserving the cultural heritage of Frederiksted while simultaneously embracing progress. It demonstrates our unwavering commitment to improving the lives of the people we serve and creating spaces that foster community spirit and unity,” stated an OTF spokesperson. “This stirring accomplishment reminds us that with determination, collaboration, and a shared dream, we can continue to make positive impacts on Frederiksted and its residents. OTF remains committed to the journey of transformation and renewal for this remarkable town we call home.”
Under Aimee’s leadership, OTF has positioned itself, once again, as one of the chief influencers in the revival of Frederiksted town. Their collaborative teamwork with the West Guyls organization in this summer’s extremely successful ‘Tart Wars’ Block Party that spread over historic Buddhoe Park, Fort Frederik, Midre Cummings Park and along Strand Street was nothing short of a Tour de Force for both organizations. It brought thousands into the town where they mingled, patronized vendors and fervently cried out for their favorite tart. But the cry heard the loudest was for street talk of more events that would contribute to the revitalization of the grand old town.
OTF heard the cry and launched their “Rhythms at Sunset” series which runs the third Friday of the month at Verne I. Richards Veterans Memorial Park in Frederiksted. With a beautiful sunset settling slowly across the Western horizon as the backdrop, the October issue brought a lively crowd, great music, culture and plenty of food and drink. The inaugural event featured a lineup of great local talent, live performances by Kevin Williams, Jr., Tony Richards & Friends, The Troublemakers and spoken word artists Kaden and Dese.
“We are thrilled with the turnout and the energy at the launch of Rhythms at Sunset,” said Aimee Griles-Carino. “It’s incredible to see the community come together in this way, and we look forward to continuing this series to support the cultural and economic growth of Frederiksted.”
