Young Jamaicans Celebrate 10 Years Of Giving Back

Jamaica Impact Inc. (JAMPACT) will celebrate ten years of service at its “IMAGINE…” 10th Anniversary Fundraiser on Saturday, June 20, 2009, 7 p.m. at the CUE Art Foundation, 511 W. 25th Street, New York, NY. The event will feature keynote speaker Dr. Marva Craig, Vice President of Student Affairs at the Borough of Manhattan Community College.  The Hon. Geneive Brown Metzger, Consul General of Jamaica, is the honorary chair of the event.

The highly-anticipated fundraiser, themed “IMAGINE…” was conceived as JAMPACT’s signature event to celebrate the organization’s 10-year milestone and will serve to acknowledge the organization’s accomplishments, the dedication of its members and leadership, as well as honor a number of outstanding individuals who have made positive changes in Jamaica and the Jamaican Diaspora community. 

Formed in 1998 with the belief and conviction that an informed and active overseas community can contribute to the improvement of the socioeconomic conditions in Jamaica, the JAMPACT membership will use the anniversary event to highlight its gains and accomplishments, while appealing for more private and public sector support. The evening’s program will include keynote address by Dr. Marva Craig; a silent auction featuring art pieces by renowned artist Kerream Jones; and live entertainment by Inner Roots Band, with special musical performance by emerging reggae sensation Faraji. Corporate sponsors of the event include Western Union and Jamaica National Overseas (US).

President of JAMPACT, Akelia Lawrence feels that the organization has stayed true to its mission over the years. “We have remained steadfast in our aim to make a significant impact,” said Ms. Lawrence who has been a member for the past four years, “and we look to another 10 years and more to intensify our efforts in helping to revitalize Jamaica’s socioeconomic landscape.”

Drawing on a membership comprising of young Jamaican professionals, students and friends of Jamaica, domiciled in the Northeast USA, the organization’s impact continues to be felt in a number of ways, particularly through its Adopt-A-School and Tuition Assistance Programs, and contributions to various debates on economic growth, education, and other social policy issues. Funds raised from the event will support these programs.