AFJ to honour Denis O'Brien

Come November 17, the American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) will host its 30th annual Hummingbird Gala with a cocktail, silent auction, elegant dinner and dance featuring the legendary Third World in performance at the Capitale, 130 Bowery Street, New York City, starting at 6 p.m. The 2011 Humanitarian Award will be presented to Denis O'Brien, chairman of the Digicel Group.

Executive director of the AFJ, Caron Chung, told Outlook that O'Brien is being honoured for his philanthropic dedication and contribution to the island's economy.

She noted that the AFJ remains committed to raising much-needed funding in the areas of education, health care and economic development for Jamaica whose progress is dear to all members of the organisation.

"The AFJ continues to strive to enhance philanthropy and volunteerism through programmes that support development in these areas. Events like our New York gala provide occasion to honour deserving parties while also generating resources to fund the AFJ's strategic initiatives. Each year, grants are accepted beginning in December; disbursements are presented during a formal ceremony within six months thereafter," she said.

The event, which usually culminates in a rollicking time on the dance floor, will not disappoint this year as legendary reggae band, Third World will perform their hits for the audience.

In her role as executive director of the AFJ, Chung is responsible for developing funding channels, grant management, partnerships, capacity building as well as ensuring that the strategic direction of the organisation is maintained. "The American Friends of Jamaica is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organisation that serves as a conduit for tax-deductible philanthropic contributions from those who care about and want to achieve positive social impact in Jamaica. It has been a very rewarding experience to serve in a role that helps Jamaicans in need. Jamaica is my home, my sojourn outside of Jamaica is more meaningful as I work in this role to advance self-sufficiency, promote healthy communities and ultimately strengthen the nation," Chung noted.

The AFJ will launch its 2012 Holiday Promotion on November 21 to benefit the St Andrew Care Centre and Cornwall Regional Hospital. Funds raised from the promotion will assist with the 'Yes, We Care' campaign for at-risk street boys in Kingston and the paediatric ward at Cornwall Regional Hospital. The next fund-raising event will be on March 31, 2012, in Miami, Florida.