MIAMI – As the American Friends of Jamaica Inc. (AFJ) enters its’ 25th year of philanthropy for the benefit of Jamaican charities, the organization prepares for its’ second annual South Florida Black Tie Gala and Auction to be held at the legendary Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables on Saturday, April 1, 2006 starting at 6pm.
Everyone interested in supporting Jamaica is welcomed to a fun night celebrating Jamaica. The gala will feature a reception and dinner with an auction of items ranging from luxurious Caribbean packages to fine art. Guests will enjoy entertainment from the popular Mighty Vikings band. Deutsche Bank Alex.Brown leads a roster of strong corporate supporters as the Platinum Sponsor.
A Warm South Florida Greeting!
A new tradition of elegance was added to South Florida in June 2005. South Florida society stepped out in style and onto the red carpet to welcome the inaugural American Friends of Jamaica gala to the area. The elegant black-tie affair hosted some 230 guests including U.S. and Jamaican diplomats, Jamaican businessmen and South Florida’s Jamaican society.
“We are extremely pleased with the response from the South Florida community,” adds AFJ President Amb. Glen Holden, ret., “our presence here is an important step in reaching a vital and influential group. Last year’s attendees continue to comment on how they enjoyed the event and we hope to exceed their expectations this year”.
This year’s gala will recognize the humanitarian efforts of Hon. Oliver F. Clarke O.J. – Chairman and Managing Director of The Gleaner Company Limited along with corporate honoree Diageo – The world’s leading premium drinks business and producer of Jamaica’s Red Stripe Beer. The honorees will join a distinguished list of individuals and corporations who have received the AFJ honor including famed fashion icon Ralph & Ricky Lauren, renowned Billionaire and philanthropist Michael Lee Chin, Sandals founder Gordon Butch Stewart, and Harry Belafonte.
Keisha A. Phipps, AFJ’s newly appointed Executive Director adds, “South Florida represents our fastest growing segment and we look forward to growing this base even further. Last year’s event highlighted that the Jamaicans in the South Florida area are extremely committed to giving back to our island.”
The Work Must Go On!
Since its’ inception, the American Friends of Jamaica has raised over $10 million for Jamaica non-profits focused in the areas of education, healthcare and economic development. In 2005, 17 grants were awarded to organizations such as Trench Town Development Association, Jamaican Ministry of Education, the Jamaica Society of 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, GraceKennedy Limited and Western Union International.
