The Oracabessa Foundation

The Oracabessa Foundation founded by Chris Blackwell works to make a positive impact in the town of Oracabessa. The Foundation was established in 1997 with the mission to serve as a catalyst for the sustainable development of Oracabessa and its environs. Today the Oracabessa Foundation is focused on making an impact in three critical areas; getting people working, keeping the local bay healthy, and keeping youth positive and engaged.

With our partner, the Oracabessa Foundation, we are currently funding an infrastructure project at the H.E.A.R.T. Community-Based Vocational Training Centre in Jacks River. H.E.A.R.T. is Jamaica's National Training Agency and, through their 'community-based' training scheme, they work to establish vocational training centres in communities across Jamaica. The community provides the physical infrastructure - building, tables, chairs - and H.E.A.R.T. pays the instructors.

Through this partnership, 49 students were supported through the Ganar Youth Training Program – a tremendously successful program with a 66% employment rate post-graduation.