Plans are well underway for the staging of the Friends of Good Shepherd International Inc., (FOGS) fundraising gala, slated for Saturday, June 3rd, at the Double Tree by Hilton Hotel in Sunrise, Florida.
The Miramar based Charity, which this year celebrates 27 years of service to the poor and disadvantaged both locally and primarily in Jamaica, expects the event to attract a wide cross section of the South Florida business and professional communities.
Since its inception FOGS has raised and donated over US $1.5 million dollars to assist the poor primarily in healthcare and education.
Among the facilities supported by the organization are: The Good Shepherd Foundation Medical Complex and Hope Hospice (Village of Hope), located in Montego Bay; Mustard Seed Communities; and educational advancement programs and other outreach programs throughout the island.
The Gala is an annual event, but due to the Covid 19 pandemic, the event was not held in the past three years. Unfortunately, the suspension of the gala adversely impacted the organization’s operation. However, this year’s staging is expected to see support comparable to the pre pandemic fundraisers.
Newly elected President of the organization, Mr. Andrew Foreman is confident that the gala will be a memorable occasion. A major highlight of the evening will be a tribute to the immediate past president, Marie Buteau, who stepped down in November 2022, after 26 years at the helm.
In keeping with its mission of promoting education, healthcare and child care, the group will continue its practice of awarding scholarships at the Gala to local students in Broward County. So far, several students from the tri-county of Dade, Broward and Palm Beach, have been the beneficiaries of FOGS’ scholarship program since it was initiated over ten years ago.
Among the dignitaries slated to attend the function, is the Founder of the Good Shepherd Foundation of Montego Bay and Archbishop Emeritus of Kingston, Jamaica, Most Rev. and Hon. Charles Dufour. Patrons will also be able to view a video depicting the work supported on the island by the Florida group.
The Gala promises to be a night of fun and frolic and will feature some of Jamaica’s cultural richness. An awards presentation, Silent Auction, music by Titanium Vibes and entertainment by Wayne Armond, formerly of Chalice, will be the major highlights of the night.
For tickets & more information, contact FOGS at 954-543-1931
Tickets also available online at: friendsofgoodshepherd.org
