How did we start?
In 2017, our founder Reccarnei Phillipson, went to Jamaica and didn't have the 'coming home experience' that she thought she would. Upon reflection, she realised that this was because she wasn't able to get into the community, talk to real people and explore Jamaica beyond being a tourist in resorts.
She looked into ways to volunteer as a teacher, or any role where she could inspire and uplift youth. But she quickly realised that there was no easy, efficient and secure way for global Jamaicans to come to Jamaica and volunteer.
So Reccarnei decided to make an organisation to support global Jamaican youth reconnect and give back to the country they love so much.
And with this Reconnect JA was born...
About the team:
We are a team of 6 young people, who are passionate about uplifting marginalised persons and supporting Jamaica-based non-profits continue their amazing work.
What is our vision:
We believe in a global Jamaican community, where young people with Jamaican descent from around the world can connect, support each other, and come together to uplift Jamaica.
How will you use the money you raise to achieve it:
With the profits from this prize draw, the Reconnect JA team will be able to send a volunteer to Kingston, Jamaica for a 2-month period. This volunteer will be able to dedicate their time to hosting a summer school for children, or supporting adults and children with their computer skills, helping those with special educational needs, offering medical, dental, and legal support to the public and more...
Once we have secured the funds, we will be working in collaboration with The Salvation Army, The Department of Community Service and Development at the University of Technology, Kingston, and other organisations to place volunteers in organisation, where they can best support the community.