RalRosa Foundation marks fifth anniversary - Surpasses J$23m for healthcare initiatives in Jamaica, Washington

The RalRosa Foundation marked a significant milestone, celebrating its fifth anniversary and announcing it has raised over US$150,000 (approximately J$23.4 million) since its establishment in 2022. This funding aims to enhance access to quality healthcare in Jamaica and the Washington, DC metropolitan area. The foundation's fifth annual fundraising gala, held on June 20 under the theme ‘Five Years of Doing Good Together,’ highlighted these achievements.

Proceeds from this year's gala will directly support the Golden Spring Health Centre in St Andrew, Jamaica, and aid in procuring medical equipment for primary healthcare clinics impacted by Hurricane Melissa. Additionally, funds will benefit Holy Cross Health Community Clinics in Maryland. The event convened healthcare leaders, business executives, philanthropists, and community advocates committed to improving primary healthcare in underserved communities.

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Our fifth anniversary is evidence of the power of purpose. It’s proof that, when we choose to join hands together, anything is possible – we can overcome challenges, we can do good, we can do well, and together we can make a meaningful difference in our world. We are a small and growing community of dedicated volunteers, donors, sponsors, and committed partners who believe that healthcare is not a privilege for a few but rather a right and necessity for everyone. We embody the Jamaican expression, ‘likkle but tallawah’.

During the gala, the foundation presented its inaugural Healthy Spirit Award to Karen Dale, RN, MSN, CEO of AmeriHealth Caritas DC, and Jamaican dentist Dr. Heather Lawson-Myers. The award recognized their outstanding leadership and dedication to advancing health equity. Dr. Lawson-Myers stated the honor was a "divine confirmation that a life lived on purpose sends ripples far beyond what we can see."

Further recognizing contributions, the foundation introduced the President’s Rising Star Award to board member Courtni Foster, a medical student, for her leadership. The Small Gift, Big Impact Micro-Grant Award was presented to The New Freedmen’s Clinic, a student-run free medical clinic at Howard University, to help launch its mobile healthcare initiative. Reflecting on the foundation's journey, President Dr. Jacqui Watson emphasized the "power of purpose" and the collective effort of volunteers, donors, and partners in making a difference.

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This award is not a destination; it’s a divine confirmation that a life lived on purpose sends ripples far beyond what we can see. It’s about standing in the current of a legacy that says your life must count for others.