At the recent charity banquet in Miami, the American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) announced a generous donation of over $100 million (approximately US$650,000) to support various social projects and organizations in Jamaica.
The event, held on April 5, marked another milestone in the AFJ’s ongoing efforts to assist local Jamaican groups in need. Lee Issa and Paul Issa were also honored at the gala.
According to AFJ Executive Director Caron Chung, the organization organizes two major fundraisers annually in the United States to generate funds for Jamaican social initiatives. “One is held in Miami in April or May, and the other in New York, usually in October. Proceeds from both those galas are combined to fund our discretionary grants program. In November, we put out an announcement inviting applicants to submit their applications for grants through AFJ,” Chung explained.
During the event, AFJ recognized two esteemed honorees for their contributions to nation-building. Lee Issa, chairman of Couples Resort, and Paul Issa, chairman of the Issa Trust Foundation, were celebrated for their work and commitment to Jamaica.
This year, the AFJ received 79 grant applications, which are reviewed through a stringent process, Chung added. “We have a very stringent process. We announce it on social media, on the radio, and on the television. On our website, afj.org, the application is found there, and the list of criteria. Entities have to be registered charities in Jamaica and have to have a board of directors with someone accountable for finance,” she said.
Through its funding program, AFJ continues to have a significant influence on social development, healthcare, and early childhood education initiatives in Jamaica. Chung emphasized, “We all come together and we contribute to the nation-building of this country. The onus is not only on Government and private sector. The Government, private sector philanthropists, we all have a role to play in this, and the AFJ has been contributing significantly over the years to programmes in Jamaica.”
Prime Minister Andrew Holness served as the main speaker at the gala, accompanied by Senators Audrey Marks and Delano Seiveright, as well as various government ministers. Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava was also present at the event.
In total, AFJ awarded US$740,000 in grants to 54 grantees, supporting several initiatives across the island. These initiatives include education, music, sports, healthcare, skills training, gender-based violence programs, arts, coding, veterinary care, environmental protection, school-feeding programs, and peace-building efforts, among others.
At the AFJ’s awards ceremony held at the U.S. Embassy in Kingston on April 8, certificates were presented to the grantees. Minister of Education, Skills, Youth, and Information, Senator Dr. the Hon. Dana Morris Dixon, praised AFJ for its continued legacy of support. “For over four decades, the American Friends of Jamaica have remained a pillar of support for our country. Their legacy is etched into the walls of our hospitals, the classrooms of our schools, and the hearts of our people,” Dr. Morris Dixon said.
She further emphasized the importance of partnerships in the country’s development, stating, “We need partners like the AFJ who understand that sustainable development and transformation in education are built on trust, collaboration, and long-term investment.”
AFJ President Wendy Hart also highlighted the importance of collaboration between government, funders, and NGOs. “We are at our strongest when government, funders and NGOs can work together. It is also important that we all continue to prioritise impact,” she noted.
Charge d’Affaires Amy Tachco expressed her admiration for the AFJ’s unwavering commitment, stating, “Your generosity and dedication continue to make a profound impact, ensuring essential resources reach those who need them most.”
Founded in 1982, AFJ is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that has been instrumental in providing financial support to Jamaican charities, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare, and economic development.
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