Calendar :: Events - Jamaica Foundation of Houston

Please save the dates for these upcoming events:

Nov 15. General Meeting & Annual Election

Dec 20. General Meeting & Christmas Party

Recent Events 2024

sep 20. general meeting

You’re Invited!

Join us this Friday at 7 PM for the Jamaica Foundation of Houston’s General Meeting!

Location: Tracy Gee Community Center located at 3599 Westcenter Dr, Houston, TX 77042 — Westchase District

This was a wonderful opportunity for you to come together with fellow community members, share our voice, and bring our ideas to the table. Whether our guest was a long-time member or new to our foundation, their input was invaluable in shaping the future of our community!

During the meeting, we discussed our initiatives designed to strengthen cultural ties between the Caribbean and Houston. Plus, we were excited to welcome a guest speaker from Lions International Club, who provided insight on non-profit grants.

Thank you to guest Devin Lemons from the Lions International Club for speaking at our general meeting. Special thanks to Gail Chung for inviting him to discuss nonprofit grant opportunities. It’s exciting to see some of our Houston Missouri City Domino Club (HMCDC) members forming the HMCDC Caribbean chapter of the Lions Club, with plans to collaborate on future service initiatives. We also covered important upcoming events, such as the November election and December Christmas party, and shared ideas for next year’s gala. There were 17 folks attending in person and another 10 on Zoom, for a total of 27 attendees.

We look forward to seeing you at our next meeting!

The meeting will be held in person at the Tracy Gee Community Center. For those who cannot attend in person, we also offer a Zoom option. Here are the details for joining via Zoom (click here).

July 27 :::: Gala Review

An Evening of Celebration at the Jamaica Foundation of Houston’s Annual Independence Gala

On Saturday, July 27, 2024, the Jamaica Foundation of Houston welcomed guests to the elegant Red Oak Ballroom at the Norris Conference Centers for its Annual Independence Gala, celebrating Jamaica’s remarkable 62nd year of independence. This premier event brought together the vibrant Jamaican community in Houston to honor their rich heritage while supporting scholarships for deserving students.

The evening kicked off with a warm welcome from the charismatic master of ceremonies, Fatta Carey, setting the perfect tone for a night of celebration and connection. Guests were treated to an incredible array of dance performances and lively music that transported them straight to the heart of Jamaica. DJ Toney Campbell was on hand to play a selection of infectious Jamaican tunes, while the J-Unit Band delivered an electrifying musical highlight that had everyone dancing the night away.

The gala program was nothing short of inspiring, featuring speeches from esteemed leaders, including Foundation President Dr. Nicole Bent Jones, who recognized the contributions of the dedicated Board of Directors and Honorary Advisors. Their commitment to the foundation’s mission of uplifting those in need was heartwarming and showcased the collective effort behind the evening’s success. Adding to the significance of the night, Consul General R. Oliver Mair and Hon. Consul K. Omari Fullerton shared their thoughts, culminating in a proclamation presented by Brian Pendleton from the Precinct 4 Commissioner’s Office, which celebrated the impact of the Jamaican community in Houston.

One of the standout moments of the evening was a captivating youth performance led by the talented Sharon Anglin. Known for her nurturing spirit, Sharon guided the young performers as they engaged the audience with their artistic expressions. From musical chairs to spoken word and dance, the youth showcased their talents with enthusiasm that radiated throughout the ballroom, leaving a lasting impression on guests.

Attendees also enjoyed a sumptuous dinner catered by the Red Oak Ballroom. Guests savored delicious dual entrée with choice of Jerk Chicken Breast marinated in authentic Jamaican Jerk Seasoning and Brie Stuffed Salmon. Dessert was a delightful treat, featuring creamy cheesecake drizzled with mango sauce and a decadent triple-layer chocolate cake that left everyone craving more.

Throughout the evening, guests participated in a silent auction filled with donated items from local businesses and generous individuals. From stunning artwork to gift cards and carefully curated gift baskets, the auction was a fantastic way to support the foundation while taking home something special.

Furthermore, sponsors took the opportunity to advertise in the souvenir booklet, reaching a diverse audience of Jamaican-Americans, community leaders, and supporters of the organization. Their contributions not only helped make the gala a success but also supported the foundation’s scholarship program.

As the night drew to a close, it was clear that the Jamaica Foundation of Houston’s Annual Independence Gala was an exceptional celebration of culture, community, and commitment to education. The event successfully united attendees in a shared mission to empower the next generation while celebrating the rich tapestry of Jamaican heritage. Here’s to many more years of celebrating independence and the spirit that truly defines our community!

GALA PRESS RELEASE

See this year’s gala souvenir booklet online << click here

Jun 21. General Meeting

Guests joined us for our General Meeting on Friday, June 21, 2024 at 7 pm CT! We gathered in person at the Tracy Gee Community Center to celebrate Caribbean American Heritage Month.

Jun 1. JFH at Caribbean American Heritage Expo

JFH supported the 2nd Annual Caribbean American Heritage Expo on June 1, 2024.

May 18. Scholarship Awards Luncheon @11 am

Members, guests, and honored students joined us for our Annual Scholarship Awards Luncheon on Saturday, May 18, 2024, at 11 am CT at Ashford United Methodist Church. Proceeds from ticket sales contributed to our scholarship fund, which supports students in pursuing their educational goals. Keynote speaker Ryan Bennett, Director of Radiation Oncology/Infusion/Breast Care Center at Houston Methodist Hospital-Clear Lake, shared inspiring words of wisdom and encouragement.

Click here for more scholarship information.

Winners of our drawing were announced at the Scholarship Luncheon. Prizes included an Apple watch, dinner for two at Love Bird Restaurant, or dinner for two at Tropical Diner.

Guest enjoyed catering by Milton Jones of Green Pasture Catering (Caribbean Cuisine), a long-time friend of the Jamaica Foundation of Houston.

Thank you to our donors and sponsors. We were pleased to award ten (10) scholarships to students — made possible by the generosity of our donors. Our heartfelt gratitude to our donors, whose support is invaluable in helping us achieve our mission.

Let us continue to invest in the next generation’s potential.

Click here to donate to the Scholarship Fund

May 11. Jamaica Consulate’s Hi-5 5K Run/Walk fundraiser

This year, our Houston group participated in a virtual walk rather than gathering at a local park. Participants were encouraged to walk or run virtually at 7 am and send a photo to the Foundation email.

Apr 20. JFH at EARN virtual BINGO

JFH helped to promote the EARN event virtual BINGO on April 20, 2024, at 5 pm via Zoom.

APR 20 :::: JFH participates in TXCSO Annual CSO FEST

JFH hosted a table at the Annual CSO Fest hosted by the Texas Caribbean Students Organization (TXCSO). We celebrated our shared heritage with students and guests on the University of Houston campus on April 20th!

APR 17-20 :::: JFH supports YORK CASTLE ROBOTICS TEAM – JAMAICA

The Foundation was able to support the York Castle Robotics Team by coordinating some of the meals and meal delivery with Lovebird Restaurant and Golden Krust.

Image reference from www.northcoasttimesja.com

Apr 19 :::: General Meeting

Members and friends of the JFH attended our General Meeting on Friday, April 19, 2024, at 7 pm CT. Our meeting was held at the Tracy Gee Community Center located at 3599 Westcenter Dr, Houston, TX 77042, in Houston’s Westchase District. We reviewed annual events and ways to volunteer with the organization.

Mar 23 :::: JFH at Sugarland Kite Festival

The Jamaica Foundation of Houston held a booth on March 23rd at the International Art & Kite Festival from 10 am to 3 pm! Thank to our volunteers, for their incredible support today! The weather was perfect, and the event ran smoothly thanks to their dedication. We’ve generated significant interest in the JFH, thanks to their efforts!

View the event video online (click here)

General Meeting on February 16, 2024

Members and friends gathered for our General Meeting on Friday, February 16, 2024 at 7 pm CST. The meeting took place virtually on Zoom, with several Caribbean organizations in attendance. The purpose of the meeting was to introduce Houston City Councilmember for District F, Tiffany D. Thomas, who is collaborating with nonprofits to address community issues. Unfortunately, Council Member Thomas was unable to join, and Stephani-Nicole Leota spoke on her behalf regarding community initiatives.

Brian Pendleton from the Office of Harris County Precinct 4 discussed upcoming county events. Honorary Advisor Andy Adams announced a Sunday memorial dedication for Garvey’s St. Ann’s Bay United Methodist church, which had been destroyed by a fire. Funds were raised and donated for the cause. Guests were invited to witness Director Errol Anthony Wilks, former Board Member of the Jamaica Foundation of Houston, at the world premiere of “Stagolee and the Funeral of the Dangerous Word” by Thomas Meloncon. Various organizations also shared information about services available to the community.

We appreciate your participation in the meeting and your contribution to our organization’s mission. Thank you for connecting with fellow members and helping to enhance our effectiveness.

See you there!

Sincerely,
The Jamaica Foundation of Houston

Jan 15. MLK Parade — NOTICE: We regret to inform you that the Jamaica Foundation of Houston will not be participating in the MLK Parade this year. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to future events.

2024 Events

Jan 15. MLK Parade moved to Feb 10 (n/a this year)

Feb 16. General Meeting – Caribbean organizations are invited to meet Houston City Councilmember for District F, Tiffany D. Thomas, as she partners with nonprofits to solve community issues.

Mar 23. JFH participated in the International Art and Kite Festival in Sugarland, Texas.

Apr 19. General Meeting

Apr 20. JFH at CSO Fest

Apr 20. JFH at EARN virtual BINGO

May 11. Jamaica Consulate’s Hi-5 5K Run/Walk fundraiser

May 18. Scholarship Awards Luncheon @11 am

Jun 1. JFH at Caribbean American Heritage Expo

Jun 21. General Meeting

July 27. Jamaica Independence Gala

Sep 20. General Meeting

Nov 15. Annual Election

Dec 20. Christmas Party