Saturday on The Local Take on WCLK I spoke with Glen Simmonds, founder of the Atlanta Caribbean Jerk Festival taking place on Sunday, September 2nd at the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers. Glen explains why this event is a must for anyone who appreciates the culture of the Caribbean. In fact if you didn't get to the Caribbean this year, a short trip to the Atlanta Caribbean Jerk Festival will make you think you're in the islands.
Over 4 million immigrants from the Caribbean call the USA home and Georgia is a top destination for many. The Atlanta Caribbean Jerk Festival is not just about the food, but the culture as a whole. Entertainers include Maxi Priest, the Manhattans and many more performers. Additionally everyone has their own "flavor" of jerk. At this festival, you'll be able to find the best of the best Caribbean chefs from all over metro Atlanta.
Even better this is a party with a purpose. A portion of proceeds from the Atlanta Caribbean Jerk Festival will go to support several non-profit organizations. I speak with Dr. Yvonne Smith of Atlanta Montego Bay Sister Cities Committee. She speaks about how this organization came into being and their advocacy for youth in Jamaica and the US. Dr. Smith shares that her oganization will host their annual fundraiser on September 29th.
Karl Chambers with the Integrity Children's Fund also joins us. He speaks to their work increasing literacy for young people in Jamaica. The Integrity Children's Fund has donated over $700,000 to Jamaican schools over the last 15 years helping over 4,500 at risk students gain an education.
If you missed your Caribbean vacation this year of if you want the flavor of the Caribbean without taking a flight, join us at the Atlanta Caribbean Jerk Festival on Sunday, September 2nd in Conyers.
For more information on the Atlanta Caribbean Jerk Festival
For more information n the Integrity Children's Fund
For more information on the Atlanta Montego Bay Sister Cities Committee