Ms. Joan Edghill serves as the Chairperson of the Outreach Committee, leading a dedicated team devoted to uniting the Jamaican, Caribbean, and Central Florida communities through meaningful outreach initiatives. She encourages everyone to support signature events such as Caribbean American Heritage Month, the Thanksgiving Food Drive, and the Christmas Gift Drive, which celebrate culture and uplift those in need.
Through strong partnerships, the committee also supports the Annual Health Fair and promotes wellness through discussions on mental health, self-care, and nutrition across live events and online platforms. Together, these efforts strengthen community bonds, foster education, and inspire a lasting spirit of service.
Welcome To The Outreach Committee
Ms. Joan Edghill, M.Ed
About the
Outreach Committee
JAAOCF Outreach Committee leads impactful, year-round initiatives that strengthen and uplift the community. From hosting the Annual Health Fair and cultural celebrations to providing Thanksgiving Food Baskets and Christmas Gifts for families in need, every program reflects compassion in action. Sponsors and donors play a vital role in sustaining these efforts—helping expand wellness programs, support survivors, and empower families across Central Florida. Together, we build a legacy of giving, unity, and hope.
OUTREACH MEMBERS:
Ms. Joan Edghill, Chairperson
Ms. Angela Nelson
Ms. Cannetta Bukola-Patterson
Mrs. Danna Hall
Dr. Pat Smith
Ms. Sonia Troup
Ms. Rosemarie Roth
Mrs. Rosie Najier​​
Ms. Mea Allman, President Honorary Member
Signature Outreach Charitable Programs:
Thanksgiving Food Drive
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In November we distribute food baskets each year in to families in need across Central Florida, spreading gratitude and compassion throughout the season.
“Giving thanks by giving back — one meal, one family at a time.”
“Give a gift. Share a smile. Spread the spirit of Christmas.”
Christmas Gift
Drive
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In December we bring joy and hope to families at the Harbor House of Central Florida by providing new gifts that brighten their holiday season.
Hurricane Disaster Fund
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“Every donation brings hope, healing, and a chance to rebuild lives. Together, we turn devastation into restoration and hope into action"
Caribbean American Heritage Month
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"In June we honor our roots, embracing our culture, and empowering future generations to shine with pride.”
Outreach Initiatives
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"Serving with Love...Impacting lives...Strengthening our Community"
Our Benevolence efforts focus on supporting those in need through thoughtful gestures such as cards, flowers, phone calls, visitations, and financial assistance. We also lead Disaster Relief Drives to assist communities affected by crises and natural disasters. In addition, our Community Outreach Programs allow us to actively engage with schools, associations, business expos, fairs, and other events, helping us serve others while building stronger community connections.
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MLK Parade (January): Each year, we proudly participate in the Martin Luther King Jr. Parade to honor his legacy of justice, unity, and service. This meaningful tradition provides our youth with the opportunity to learn the values of leadership, equality, and community engagement—instilling pride in their heritage while inspiring them to carry forward Dr. King’s vision of hope and togetherness.
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Black History Celebration (February): The Black History Celebration held in February is a meaningful opportunity to honor African American heritage while recognizing the contributions and achievements of Black icons around the world. It brings the community together to reflect on history, celebrate cultural excellence, and inspire future generations through the legacy of resilience, leadership, and impact.
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Caribbean American Heritage Month Celebration (June): We celebrate Caribbean culture and contributions through music, dance, food, art, and storytelling at our in-person meeting on the second Sunday in June—promoting unity, pride, and education while honoring the lasting impact of the Caribbean community.
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Health Fair (June): The JAAOCF Health Fair held in June plays a vital role in promoting health and wellness within our community. It provides access to valuable resources, health screenings, and educational information that empower individuals and families to take charge of their well-being. This initiative reflects our commitment to prevention, awareness, and supporting healthier lifestyles for all.
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Jamaican Independence Church Service (July): The Jamaican Independence Church Service held in July is an important celebration that honors Jamaica’s independence while embracing and preserving our rich cultural heritage. It provides an opportunity for the community to come together in unity, reflection, and gratitude, recognizing the nation’s history, achievements, and the enduring spirit of the Jamaican people.
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Thanksgiving Basket Drive (November): Our Thanksgiving Food Drive provides holiday baskets to families in need, ensuring they enjoy a warm, festive meal while fostering unity, generosity, and a true spirit of giving across Central Florida.
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Christmas Gift Drive (December): Each year, we support the Harbor House of Central Florida by donating new gifts to victims of domestic abuse and their children. This initiative brings comfort, hope, and holiday joy to families rebuilding their lives, reminding them they are supported and not alone.
Annual Cultural Celebrations
JAAOCF Disaster Relief Fund
​Thanks to the generosity of our members, donors, and community partners, we were able to provide quick and effective aid to impacted individuals and families. Our relief efforts included distributing nonperishable food, clean water, medical supplies, clothing, and other essential items. This fund ensures that we are not only able to react in times of crisis, but also to stand in solidarity with those rebuilding their lives after disaster strikes. Your continued support helps us strengthen this safety net and extend our reach when it matters most. Together, we make a difference—one act of kindness, one donation, one life at a time.
Donate Now To Disaster Relief Fund
DISASTER RELIEF FUND BENEFITS:
The Jamaican American Association of Central Florida (JAAOCF) benefits significantly by having a disaster relief fund to support both local communities, those in Jamaica and the Caribbean islands. Our immediate assistance Disaster Relief Fund allows us to provide quick and effective aid to those affected by natural disasters, such as hurricanes, by supplying essential resources like nonperishable food, water, medical supplies, clothing, etc.
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Community Support: By assisting both local communities in Central Florida and international communities in Jamaica and the Caribbean, JAAOCF strengthens its role as a vital support network. This enhances community ties and builds a sense of solidarity among members.
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Resource Mobilization: The fund enables JAAOCF to mobilize resources efficiently, sending supplies and financial aid where they are most needed. This was exemplified by their response to Hurricane Beryl, where they sent containers of supplies to Jamaica.
The Jamaican American Association of Central Florida (JAAOCF) Disaster Relief Fund plays a vital role in our mission to support communities affected by natural disasters. In July 2024, when Hurricane Beryl struck Jamaica with devastating force, those funds allowed us to respond swiftly and compassionately.
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Cultural Preservation and Engagement: Supporting disaster relief efforts aligns with JAAOCF's mission to preserve cultural heritage through community service and emergency assistance. It also engages the Jamaican diaspora in meaningful ways, fostering a spirit of giving and cultural pride.
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Overall, the disaster relief fund is an essential component of JAAOCF's commitment to community service and cultural preservation.