A Message from Our President

I am honored to be sharing this message as President of the Rochester Jamaican Organization, Inc. (RJO) as we mark the 16th anniversary of the organization and the 60th anniversary of Jamaica’s independence. As one can imagine, the festivities will be at a fever pitch. However, as we celebrate these milestones, let us not forget the challenges of the past two years as communities across the globe dealt with the impact of COVID-19. Looking ahead, we are focused on accelerating our post-pandemic recovery efforts through collaboration and the resumption of in-person programs and events, beginning with the return of our signature Independence Gala.

I'm proud of our successes over the years and attribute this to the meaningful engagement of our members and sponsors who have enabled us to build on the strength of our brand. The RJO has now become synonymous with our commitment to helping our communities both in Rochester, NY, and Jamaica - from the senior citizens who benefit from our meal delivery program to college-bound scholarship recipients in Rochester to the youth served by the Theodora Project in Jamaica. I am incredibly grateful to be associated with the Rochester Jamaican Organization and excited about this journey as we continue to write the next chapter of our amazing story of giving back to our community.

Joel Frater, Ed.D
President of the Rochester Jamaican Organization
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Rochester Jamaican Organization
Our 2023 scholarship application is now available! Learn more and apply today. Learn More & Apply Now!
Providing access to resources that will positively impact social conditions of Jamaicans in Jamaica and in Rochester, NY.
our mission
Rochester Jamaican Organization Inc. is committed to improving the lives of Jamaicans living in Rochester and Jamaica through its own capacity building and collaboration with U.S and Jamaica based organizations.

Become a Member Today

Join our general meetings on the first Thursday of each month.

6 PM - 8 PM

1099 Jay St.
Building J, 3rd Floor
Rochester, NY 14611

For more information, call 585-234-2119.
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Academic
Scholarships

Our scholarship opportunities provide financial support for Rochester-area college students. Check out 3 of our scholarships below and learn more about our other scholarship opportunities by clicking the button below.

Deloris Asynthia Lewis Memorial Scholarship is awarded yearly in honor of our Founder.

Nico Mundy Scholarship Fund put forth by his family in honor of their generous father

Monroe Community College Scholarship supports students attending MCC.
Apply Now!

Charitable Agenda in Jamaica

Our impact includes sponsoring students attending the Rose Hill and McCooks Pen primary schools; Edna Manley school of Performing Arts; and The Theodora Project.
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Excellence

Pursuit of the highest quality of programs and service and a persistent commitment to the best outcomes for the organization. 

Empowerment

The idea of giving members the necessary support, authority and opportunity to advance the mission of the organization as well as holding them responsible and accountable for the outcomes of their actions.

Service

The differentiating quality of the organization in meeting and exceeding the needs of members, friends of the organization, its benefactors and beneficiaries. 

Integrity

The principle of demonstrating strong ethical or moral standards in conducting the business of the organization at all levels.
Our values

Stewardship

Responsibly managing current assets and preparing for the future leadership and financial sustainability of the organization.

Diversity

‍Diversity means Jamaicans and friends of Jamaica from a wide range of racial, ethnic, socioeconomic, cultural backgrounds, lifestyles, experiences, interests, and other unique dimensions.

Inclusion

‍Inclusion means that the organization has the policies and procedures to ensure all people feel welcome and that leaders and members demonstrate behaviors that allow different perspectives, opinions and experiences to be heard and recognized.

Equity

‍Equity means that everyone who is eligible has an equal chance at opportunities for programs and services offers by the organization.
Our Impact
Learn more about our impact
Join our mission

Scholarship & Nomination Applications

Click to download the nomination or scholarship form.
Deloris Lewis Scholarship
Nico Mundy Scholarship
MCC Foundation Scholarship
Community Leadership and Service Award Nomination

Community Sponsorship Opportunities

Support the Rochester Jamaican Organization and our mission to provide access to networks and resources to Jamaicans in Jamaica and in Rochester.
Support Today!
Support Opportunities

Support the Rochester Jamaican Organization

Support the Rochester Jamaican Organization and our mission to provide access to networks and resources to Jamaicans in Jamaica and in Rochester.
Support Today!
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TEstimonials & Stories

"I am sincerely honored to have been selected as the recipient of the Rochester Jamaican Scholarship Organization. This scholarship is a blessing because it is helping me to complete college...receiving the scholarship isn't just about the money, it portrays the image that I'm seen as having potential for the future of our society."

— RJO Scholarship Recipient

"My educational pursuits would not be possible without generous support from scholarship sponsors like this organization. I want to thank the Rochester Jamaican Organization for enabling this opportunity! And for investing in my future."

- 2015 MCC Foundation Scholarship Recipient 
Support Our Mission
Celebrating 60 years of Jamaica!
Event

16th Annual Independence Gala

Ticket sales are now closed. Thank you to all who have purchased tickets! We look forward to celebrating 60 years of Jamaica's independence with you on Friday, July 22, 2022!

You can still support our mission by donating to the Rochester Jamaican Organization!
Donate to Support
Buy Tickets & Attend the Gala
Latest News

The Theodora Project

The Theodora Project — an outreach program of the United Church of Negril — was established in 2004 in response to the human-trafficking crisis in Western Jamaica.

This initiative provides education and housing to youth, 17-25 years old, who have been or are at risk of becoming victims of human trafficking...
Read more

The Green Trees Initiative

Contact Us

P.O. Box 24287
Rochester, NY 14624
(585) 234-2119
rocjamaicanorg@gmail.com

Learn More

Click Here to Donate & Support Our Mission
© 2022 Rochester Jamaican Organization, Inc.