The American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) have been raising funds for those with need in Jamaica for 35 years, and the signature Jamaica Charity Gala in Miami continued the tradition in style.
More than 250 guests attended the annual Jamaica Charity Gala in Miami, staged at the Four Seasons Miami on the evening of April 1st.
“Evenings like these are wonderful for our major donors, but above all else our objective is to connect those who can provide help with those who need help,” AFJ president Wendy Hart said.
The AFJ started hosting their annual Jamaica Charity Gala in New York in 1982. Treasurer Barron Channer was instrumental in introducing the AFJ gala to Miami 13 years ago. Today, the group’s objectives for advancing the mission have become more diverse, not just targeting the wealthy, but all Jamaicans who have done well in the diaspora.
“Many immigrants from Jamaica focus on giving directly to their families or to their high schools. We also want to encourage professionals in the diaspora who have the means, to give to wider causes on the island as well.” Treasurer Barron Channer,
In attendance were US Ambassador to Jamaica Luis Moreno, Jamaican Ambassador to the US Audrey Marks, Minister of Tourism Ed Bartlett, Kingston Mayor Delroy Williams, and entertainer Orville “Shaggy” Burrell.
The Lignum Vitae Vanguard Award for service to the community was bestowed upon Information Officer at the Jamaican Consulate Cheryl Wynter, while Dr Kevin Coy was recognized for accomplishments in the field of community service.
The recipient of the International Humanitarian Award was WISYNCO Group Chairman William Mahfood.
The AFJ managed to surpass the evening’s pledge drive goal of $50,000, This year’s recipients include Cornwall Regional Hospital, SOS Children’s Village, Alpha Institute and The University of the West Indies.
 have been raising funds for those with need in Jamaica for 35 years){kind=link}