This morning, most of Jamaica’s non-governmental organization (NGO) community was gathered in the same place. This was because USAID (a major American aid donor) is soliciting “concept papers” for a $30 million grant that will be issued later this year. This will not all go to one organization, rather each grant will run up to $2 million per NGO. These will all be distributed internationally. Needless to say, this will be a highly competitive process. I would estimate that at least 100 people turned out for an information session today, which outlined what officials will be looking for in the concept paper. Basically, we must describe an innovative project that will have measurable result. There are three areas of focus exclusive to Jamaica: basic education, civic participation and climate change. The paper is due in two weeks and will run a maximum of six pages. There are strict guidelines and a non-negotiable deadline. We had a brainstorming session today at YOU and we have some idea of where we want to go. 

The day before, I met with another NGO- UNICEF. I had a meeting with my counterpart, the communications specialist there. We had a great discussion and covered the challenges of conducting our business in Jamaica. UNICEF has been in Jamaica since 1964 and set up a permanent office in 1977. Here in Jamaica, they work in sort of a middle ground, both trying to influence policy and working directly on the ground with local NGOs. During the meeting, the UNICEF rep told me that one of the challenges is simply informing people about rights, especially children’s’ rights. This is a relatively new concept here, apparently. 

I also had a wonderful conversation today with Canadian Senator Don Meredith. A Canadian who was born in Jamaica, he grew up in St. Ann and has been back many times. In fact, he was here in April with a film crew who documented his trip. Senator Meredith is planning a tentative trip to Jamaica for the Jubilee with a delegation of Canadian politicians. We are hoping to plan an event with Senator Meredith, who is dedicated to any causes related to youth. He is clearly devoted to this cause and was gracious with his time today, stepping away from duties on Parliament Hill to speak with me. And from reading the headlines from Canada, it seems the Hill is a busy, controversial place lately.

Ok, got to go- gotta start researching for this concept paper.