American Friends of Jamaica to Honour Boxing Champ Lewis

Former World Heavyweight boxing champion Lennox Lewis, will be presented with the American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) International Achievement Award, at the organisation’s 27th Annual Gala and Auction, on November 6, at the Gotham Hall, 1356 Broadway on 36th Street, in New York City, (USA).
The AFJ will recognise Lennox Lewis with its highest humanitarian award for his active involvement in a wide range of philanthropic initiatives in academy and sports. A statement from the AFJ noted that Lewis, son of a Jamaican mother Violet Lewis, has made significant contributions to the country while raising funds for charities through a multitude of initiatives, including athletic programmes in the parish of St. James, Jamaica.
The Annual Black Tie Gala aims to bring together persons from civil society and corporations, including overseas nationals who love Jamaica and want to see the country prosper.
“The gala is a wonderful way to show your support of charitable activities in Jamaica. It is so important for each of us to take responsibility for giving back to those in need,” says former US Ambassador to Jamaica and AFJ President, Sue Cobb.
While serving as a fundraiser, The AFJ’s marque event aims to raise awareness of education, healthcare and economic development and has raised over $11 million in support of its focus areas.
In 2006, 15 grants were awarded to organisations such as Project Hope Jamaica, the Ministry of Education, Jamaica Society for the Blind, and Hanover Charities.
That same year, the AFJ launched its Diaspora Giving Programme, a dynamic initiative that serves to formalise donations from the USA to Jamaican organisations.
The gala will include a cocktail reception, dinner, award presentation and entertainment by the Brooklyn/NY based New Kingston Band with Courtney Panton. There will be live and silent auctions of items ranging from luxurious Caribbean vacation packages, to fine art.
Past AFJ honourees include; Edgar and Louise Cullman, Chris Blackwell, Ralph and Ricky Lauren, Tony Hart, Food for the Poor, Robert Nesta ‘Bob’ Marley, and former US President Ronald Reagan.