COCONUT GROVE – Father Richard Holung and businessman, Phillip Gore of Jamaica were recipients of the American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) 2008 International Humanitarian Award at the annual gala held last Saturday (May 10) at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Coconut Grove. Both were awarded for their outstanding contributions in their particular fields.
Father Holung was honored for his vital efforts in service to Jamaica’s poor and homeless. Through his unique ministry, Missionaries of the Poor, which he started 27 years ago, Father Holung along with his group of nearly 400 priests have spread his humanitarian work and his message of hope around the world through his social outreach programs.
Amb. Sue Cobb and Butch Stewart present award to Father Ho Lung
Surrounded by desperate poverty in Kingston, where the poor suffered greatly, Father Richard Ho Lung felt the call to respond radically to the needs of the poor in Jamaica. In 1981, he founded a religious community of men who would dedicate their lives to the service of the rejected and the destitute. Today the Missionaries of the Poor has grown internationally with a presence in the Philippines, Haiti, and Uganda, and Father Ho Lung has become a Jamaican institution.
Businessman, Phillip Gore has earned a reputation for providing leadership during a career spanning more than 35 years in the construction industry as Executive Chairman of Gore Developments Limited, one of the leading developers of affordable housing in Jamaica.
Amb. Sue Cobb presents award to Philp Gore
Described as a successful business leader, philanthropist and arts enthusiast, Mr. Gore is known for his selfless dedication to Jamaican youth, civic devotion and contributions to many of the island’s charitable endeavors.
Known for his strong leadership, Phillip Gore has earned a well-respected reputation during a career spanning over 35 years in the construction industry. He has served as Chairman and President of the Jamaica Developers Association and the Incorporated Masterbuilders Association. He is the President of Tennis Jamaica and Chairman of Gore Developments Ltd, one of the leading developers of affordable housing in Jamaica. He and his wife, Christine, sponsor a program which offers scholarships to young tennis players in Jamaica who have the aptitude, but not the means, to pursue higher education, whether locally or overseas.
Speaking to the audience of more than 300 persons, Jamaica’s Ambassador, His Excellency Anthony Johnson described the relationship between Jamaica and the USA as a long, powerful and useful one.
More importantly, he continued that the relationship must continue as both countries shared a symbol of friendship beyond trade and investment, and charity, according to Ambassador Johnson.
Amb. Johnson and Consul General Allicock
In praising the American Friends of Jamaica, the Ambassador lauded them for the dedication and commitment noting that the organization (AFJ) is unique, as former US ambassadors to the island have continued to extend their support to Jamaica after their individual term of office.
Through philanthropic efforts, the AFJ has supported several of the nation’s charitable organizations and social initiatives targeted at improving the lives of Jamaicans in the areas of education, healthcare and economic development.
Former Ambassador to Jamaica, and President of the AFJ, Ambassador Sure Cobb, also echoed sentiments praising the honorees for their achievements, while commending the efforts of the organization.
Amb. Sue Cobb and honorees
