The American Friends of Jamaica is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization dedicated to supporting Jamaican charitable organizations and social initiatives targeted at improving the lives of Jamaicans through systemic development in the areas of education, healthcare and economic development. Its history dates back 25 years. Founded in 1982, the American Friends of Jamaica was established to strategically connect resources from North America to charities in Jamaica. The activities of the organization were led primarily by American multinational corporations with commercial interests in Jamaica, American winter residents and members of the diplomatic corps. Today, the organization has grown to encompass both Americans and members of the Jamaican diaspora.

The organization boasts a cumulative contribution of over US $10 million in cash and kind to Jamaican charities in education, healthcare and economic development. Each year the AFJ raises funds in the United States through a mix of special events, individual donations, foundation and corporations and distributes them to Jamaican institutions. AFJ Galas are held in South Florida and New York and honors an individual and/or corporation with the International Humanitarian Award for exemplary contributions in the areas of education, healthcare and/or economic development in Jamaica. See past honorees.

Organizations benefiting from last year's fundraising included the University of the West Indies, the Jamaica Society for the Blind, the Mona Rehabilitation Foundation, the MoBay Hope Medical Center and others.

The AFJ's first chairman, in 1982, was former U.S. Ambassador Lauren Lawrence. Following his death, the Board elected Major Gen. Donald S. Dawson, U.S.A.F., Ret., C. D. (Hon.). He served for 15 years and was elected Chairman Emeritus. Currently, former U.S. Ambassador to Jamaica the Hon. Glen A. Holden serves as AFJ President.

The AFJ's brand is strong and the organization continues to play an important role in serving Jamaica.

For more information on AFJ's initiatives contact:
Keisha Phipps
Executive Director
1120 Avenue of the Americas, Fourth Floor
New York NY 10036
212-626-6883
kphipps@theafj.org

One Thousand Roofs Project: *** A response to Hurricane Dean ***