The American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) announces more news in anticipation of the organization’s 30th annual fundraising gala in New York City on Thursday, November 17, 2011.
To mark this years’ 2011 International Humanitarian Award – which will be given to Digicel Chairman and philanthropist Denis O’Brien – HRH Prince Charles of Wales has been named Patron of Honor. This year’s sponsors include Ralph Lauren, Bacardi, The Cobb Family Foundation, Mutual of America and The American Ireland Fund. The longest running reggae band, Third World, will be performing as musical guest at the event.
ABOUT THIRD WORLD BAND
After 38 years of smash hit songs, sold-out tours and inspirational messages, Third World remains committed to the excellence of reggae music. One of the longest running and most diverse bands Jamaica has ever produced, the group has traveled around the world spreading the message of Peace, Love, & Unity for which they have truly lived up to their title as Reggae Ambassadors.
To date, Third World has released a total of 23 albums as well as solo projects from Lead Singer Bunny Rugs and Guitarist Cat Coore. Awards include: Recipients of the 1986 “United Nations Peace Medal,” 1992 and 1996 Jamaica Music Industry awards for Best Show Band, 10 nominations for the Grammy Awards and an induction on the Reggae Walk of Fame. Albums include: Third World, 96 Degrees in the Shade, Journey to Addis, Prisoner in the Street, The Story’s been Told, Arise in Harmony, Rock the World, Sense of Purpose, You’ve Got the Power, Hold on to Love, Serious Business, Committed, Live it Up, Generation Coming, Ain’t Givin’ Up, Black Gold and Green and their new album Patriots.
International hit singles include: the cover version of Gamble & Huff’s, “Now That We’ve Found Love,” “96 Degrees in the Shade,” “Cool Meditation,” “Dancing on the Floor,” “Try Jah Love,” written by Stevie Wonder “Sense of Purpose,” “Forbidden Love,” “Reggae Ambassador,” “Committed,” and “Reggae Party.” For more information, visit www.thirdworldband.com.
The 30th annual New York gala is an opportunity for the diaspora community, supporters and friends with an interest in Jamaica to give back to Jamaicans in the areas of education, healthcare and economic development. The gala will present a highly coveted selection of items at a silent auction, cocktails and a dinner, all to the benefit of Jamaicans in need. To date, the AFJ has presented grants to over 65 entities. The AFJ demonstrates the power of collaboration and support to help engage people from underserved communities.
“As a group, we are committed to help Jamaicans in need with tools and opportunities to help them improve their conditions and realize their fullest potential,” said AFJ Executive Director Caron S. Chung.
AFJ Gala Chair Manuela Goren said, “Thanks to our supporters over the years, we are able to expand our vision and continue our work to give Jamaican kids a chance to be productive, enterprising adults.”
ABOUT AMERICAN FRIENDS OF JAMAICA, INC.
Founded in 1982, the American Friends of Jamaica is a charitable 501(c)(3) organization built on the principles of service and philanthropy; and is established to render assistance in the areas of Education, Healthcare, and Economic Development. The AFJ works with a broad coalition of Jamaican organizations and stakeholders to bring about change in the lives of Jamaicans in need. Amongst other initiatives, our partners assist us to provide shelter to the homeless, or to send inner-city youth to camps where they learn life skills. For more information, visit www.theafj.org.
