Jamaica Travel News

American Friends of Jamaica Host October Gala in NYC

The American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ), a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Jamaican charitable and social initiatives, celebrate achievement this fall with its 26th Annual Gala and Auction for Jamaican Charities to be held on October 9, 2007 at Cipriani 23rd Street, New York City.

The American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) fosters a network of support provided by American multinational corporations with commercial interests in Jamaica, American winter residents, members of the diplomatic corps and Jamaicans living overseas. The event will also be a prime celebration for the youth for their involvement in Jamaica, as well as to gauge more interest and aid.

"New York is the heart and soul of the American Friends of Jamaica. We are proud of what our friends here have done to assist Jamaica and have been doing for over 25 years," commented Ambassador Glen Holden, AFJ's President. "Together, we will exceed expectations this year."

The event is also the time when the spotlight is on awarded philanthropists. This year, AFJ will honor Louise and Edgar Cullman with the AFJ International Humanitarian Award for their active involvement in a wide range of philanthropic and civic organizations. Louise and Edgar Cullman have unselfishly given their time and efforts to improving Jamaican lives, increasing awareness and instrumental in raising funds through a multitude of initiatives, including The Tryall Fund and Culbro.

Last year's recipient was Chris Blackwell, founder of Island Records, Island Outpost and Palm Pictures who brought international attention to Jamaican culture and also renowned for bringing Bob Marley, Traffic and U2 to the world.

The gala will include a reception, dinner, entertainment along with an auction of items ranging from luxurious Caribbean packages to fine art.

Cost: Tickets are available for $500.00 US per person.

For More Information:
• for information or to purchase tickets, visit www.AFJ.org/gala or call 212-626-6883

About American Friends of Jamaica:

Since its inception in 1982, the American Friends of Jamaica has raised over $11 million dollars for Jamaica non-profits focused in the areas of education, healthcare and economic development. In 2006, 15 grants were awarded to organizations such as Project Help Jamaica, Jamaican Ministry of Education, the Jamaica Society for the Blind and Hanover Charities. In addition to fundraising through special events such as the gala, the AFJ has a comprehensive strategy involving individual giving and partnerships with corporations and foundations such as the Tiger Woods Foundation, Jockey International, Grace Kennedy Limited and Western Union International. In 2006, the AFJ also launched its Diaspora Giving Program, a dynamic initiative that serves to formalize charitable dollars from Diaspora members in the United States to Jamaican Organizations.

Labels: tourism

posted by Paris & John @ 3:44 PM