The Jamaica National Building Society (JNBS) Foundation was founded in 1990 with the select mandate to administer and implement the philanthropic work of JNBS. Now, 19 years later, it remains an essential vehicle in fulfilling the Society’s objective of being a proactive and caring corporate citizen both in Jamaica and the Jamaican Diaspora.

During the 2008/2009 financial year, the JNBS Foundation re-focused its energies by widening its scope and impact. And, a new General Manager, Miss Saffrey Brown, was appointed to guide the process. The Foundation also rebranded its image to reflect its new approach to - Innovating, Inspiring, Impacting... Leading with Act!on.

The expanded work of the Foundation resulted in an increase in its endowment fund. During the year, approximately $132 million was allocated for more than 88 projects, to enhance the lives of people in the communities in which JNBS operates.

We thank our many local and international partners for the funding, technical expertise and in-kind contributions that allowed us to extend our reach and touch so many lives.

The significant strides made by the Foundation are evident by the overwhelming community acceptance of The Source franchise across the island. And, we continue to reach out to Jamaicans in the Diaspora through projects such as the Jamaica Partnership for Education, which allows them to be closely involved in bolstering the education system here in Jamaica through remittance donations.

As we look forward to an even more fulfilling year ahead, I thank my fellow Board of Directors whose oversight was invaluable. Kudos to our members who enthusiastically gave of their time to the projects. And, congratulations to Ms. Brown and her creative team who have worked tirelessly to conceptualise and implement projects designed to revitalise inner city and rural communities, empower residents and build social capital.

Earl Jarrett, CD, JP
Chairman
JNBS Foundation