CEO of United Way of Jamaica, Winsome Wilkins (second left), thanks former United States Ambassador to Jamaica Sue Cobb (second right) after the latter's speech at the organisation's dinner last Tuesday. Looking on are Wayne Wray and Paula Mathis. - Photos by Peta-Gaye Clachar/Staff Photographer

Whenever there's a positive worldwide initiative, Jamaica always seems to be in it.

United Way of Jamaica launched its Major Gifts Initiative on Tuesday, which is a move to get entities and individuals from within the country to provide substantial capital to aid United Way's work.

CEO of United Way of Jamaica, Winsome Wilkins (left), is all smiles as she chats with Montego Bay businessman Winston Dear and Paula Mathis, chairman of the World Leaders Council of United Way International.

Jamaica is one of only seven countries on the globe to be selected for the pilot project by United Way International. The local United Way will use their funds on early childhood education, an area of critical importance in the development of nations.

Pat Ramsay (left) chats with Beverly Stewart at the United Way of Jamaica's dinner.

To get things rolling financially, the American Friends of Jamaica have put up a US$50,000 challenge grant for five companies to put up US$10,000 each. Paula Mathis of United Way International said that the body's aim was to have maybe two or three countries with major giving societies, and she was sure Jamaica could be one of them.

Those out for this worthwhile event included Alvaro and Jean Casserly, Juanita Ortiz, Peter and Betty Moss-Solomon, Ian Forbes, Virginia Chin, Rev Raymond Coke, Eric Crawford, Mark and Paula Kerr-Jarrett, Marcia Erskine, Christine Randle, Carlton King, Erin Dowland and T.V. Allen.

Former United States Ambassador to Jamaica Sue Cobb chats with Alvaro Casserly (left), former chairman of United Way of Jamaica, and Noel DaCosta, current chairman.