The Authentic Caribbean Foundation Gears Up For Heritage Festival in Providence

Founded in 2012, the Authentic Caribbean Foundation makes an impact in the region and internationally by “transforming the lives of Caribbean children and their caregivers through health and educational support,” shares president Andrew Sharpe. The Boston-based nonprofit’s mission is comprehensive, not only providing essential resources to the populations they serve, but also bolstering community tourism – most notably through the Rhode Island Caribbean American Heritage Festival on June 21.

Held at the Fete Music Hall in Providence, the festival celebrates the rich heritage of the city’s diverse Caribbean American community of Dominican, Haitian, and Jamaican descent. From vibrant arts and crafts to culinary traditions and lively music performances, programming promises fun for the whole family, and the event kicks off with a reading of the proclamation from Governor Dan McKee.

June is Caribbean American Heritage Month, but the organization’s wide-ranging work unfolds throughout the year. “Authentic Caribbean Foundation is a registered nonprofit dedicated to providing education and training, as well as health and support services to children and adults with disabilities and AIDS within the Diaspora and the Caribbean,” explains Sharpe. This includes raising funds for vital HIV/AIDS research, uplifting programs raising awareness about the Caribbean Diaspora, and hosting charitable events in the region with the aim of ending poverty.

The foundation’s varied services include connecting families with resources for children with disabilities, from evaluations and grants to pediatric medical equipment, and the Kids for Arts Program creates enrichment opportunities in Caribbean folkloric arts and culture, enabling children in the Diaspora to connect with traditional artforms while also contributing to their overall development.

Save the date for the Rhode Island Caribbean American Heritage Festival on June 21, and learn more about the Authentic Caribbean Foundation’s events, programming, and more by visiting AuthenticCaribbeanFoundation.org.