“Strong Governance.
Clear Direction. Empowered Community.”
The Bylaws Committee of JAAOCF is responsible for reviewing and updating the organization's bylaws to ensure they align with its mission, values, and legal standards. The committee recommends amendments, clarifY procedures, and supports strong governance to help the association operate effectively and transparently.
WELCOME TO THE BYLAWS AD HOC COMMITTEE
Ms. Grace Powell serves as Chairperson of the Bylaws Committee. The mission of the Bylaws Committee is to uphold the integrity and effectiveness of the Jamaica American Association of Central Florida’s governance framework. The committee ensures that the bylaws remain clear, current, and aligned with the organization’s mission, values, and legal responsibilities.
Through regular review, thoughtful amendments, and active engagement with stakeholders, the committee promotes transparency, accountability, and organizational excellence.
Ms. Grace Powell
Bylaws Committee:
Ms. Grace Powell, Chairperson
Ms. Cannetta Bukola-Patterson
Ms. Mea Allman, President Honorary Member
Purpose of the Bylaws:
The Bylaws Committee serves as the foundation of governance within the Jamaican American Association of Central Florida (JAAOCF), ensuring that all decisions, leadership actions, and community initiatives are guided by fairness, consistency, and transparency. The committee regularly reviews and updates the bylaws to align with the organization’s evolving goals, legal requirements, and operational needs—modernizing language and addressing any identified gaps to maintain effective governance. It also provides an advisory role by interpreting bylaw-related questions, offering guidance on parliamentary procedures, and helping resolve internal conflicts. Through active engagement with members, the committee ensures that proposed changes reflect the collective voice and interests of the membership. Annual reviews are conducted to recommend updates, ensuring the bylaws remain relevant, clear, and supportive of JAAOCF’s mission and long-term sustainability.
Ms. Cannetta Bukola-Patterson
Ms. Cannetta Bukola-Patterson has been entrusted with the important task of outlining the Policies and Procedures for the Jamaican American Association of Central Florida, Inc. (JAAOCF). This work is essential in providing clear operational guidance that supports and aligns with the organization’s Bylaws and Rules of Conduct, ensuring consistency, accountability, and transparency across all committees and leadership roles. Strong policies and procedures help protect the integrity of the organization, promote ethical behavior, clarify expectations, and ensure that decisions and actions are carried out in a fair, respectful, and organized manner—allowing JAAOCF to operate effectively while upholding its mission and values.
Strong Governance... Clear Direction... Empowered Community...
The Bylaws Committee ensures that our foundation remains strong, our decisions remain guided, and our mission stays on course—today and for generations to come.