Jamaica Travel News

American Friends of Jamaica Enjoy Successful Gala

Photo: Ambassador Glen Holden presenting the award to Edgar and Louise Cullman

NEW YORK (October 25, 2007) Successfully raising funds for Jamaican non-profits in health, education and human development and economic advancement, The American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) celebrated achievement this fall with its 26th Annual Gala and Auction for Jamaican Charities held on October 9, 2007 at Cipriani 23rd Street, New York City.

This year's prominent event honored Edgar and Louise Cullman with its prestigious International Humanitarian Award for their special love and connection with Jamaica and its people. They 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.

"We are proud of what Edgar and Louise have done to assist Jamaica these past few years," commented Keisha Phipps, AFJ Executive Director. "Their dedication, perseverance and commitment to Jamaica are highly regarded and appreciated." In keeping with tradition, the honorees received an etching of a hummingbird, Jamaica's National Bird, the AFJ's symbol of leadership, philanthropy and service to Jamaica.

As guests shimmied the night away, the 26th Annual Gala and Auction entertainment was provided by Anthem Band and a dance tribute given by the Nina Buisson Contemporary Move. Guests enjoyed a cocktail reception with colors of Jamaica cocktails and an exciting array of auction prizes including luxury homes and pottery by Cecil Baugh.

The celebration also marked the appointment of a new president of the organization. Former US Ambassador to Jamaica Sue Cobb, most recently Florida Secretary of State, will replace Ambassador Glen Holden, who served as Chairman for the past 14 years. President Cobb added, "All of us know what Glen and Gloria have personally contributed and we cannot adequately express our appreciation for what they have done. We have felt Jamaica's embrace in this new chapter."

This year's honorees join a distinguished list of individuals and corporations including: famed fashion icon Ralph Lauren and wife, Ricky Lauren; renowned billionaire and philanthropist Michael Lee Chin; and musician and social activist Harry Belafonte. 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 Benefit Committee was chaired by AFJ Board member Manuela Goren.

The American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ), a non-profit organization, 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. For more information or to make a donation, please visit AFJ‚s website, 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.

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posted by Paris & John @ 4:11 PM