180home - 180 Degree Foundation

Empowerment

Empowerment is at the heart of our mission. We aim to provide individuals and communities with the tools, resources, and knowledge they need to drive their own development.

Collaboration

We recognize that no single organization can address complex social issues alone. By partnering with other entities, we leverage diverse perspectives and expertise, ensuring a holistic approach to problem solving.

Sustainability

We design our programs with the long-term in mind, aiming to create systems and structures that can endure and evolve over time and are replicable.

Engagements

Volunteers

People Reached

Our Team

Charmaine Edmondson-Nelson: General Manager
Danielle Grant: Project Coordinator

About Us

Empowering Our Community

The 180 Degree Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to making a positive impact in our community. Our mission is to provide essential resources and support to those in need, empowering individuals to achieve their full potential.

Our Vision

The 180 Degree Foundation dreams of a nation where the potential of every child is unlocked, and families are equiped with the skills and resources to nurture the next generation effectively.

Our Board of Directors

Mr. Paul Bryan: Chairman
Bishop Dwight Fletcher
Rev. Joan Fletcher
Mrs. Karen Hoo
Mr. Lainsworth Walker
Ms. Sydoney Johnson: Company Secretary

Our Mission

Educate

Motivate

Inspire

Transform

Focus Areas

Educational Advancement

We focus on programs to create a wholistic environment for the education of students at the primary and pre-primary level, to advance their learning capacity, through their involvement in character development and learning enhancement activities, capacity building of parents and teachers, and improvements in the school facilities and infrastructure.

Parenting

Empowering parents to actively enhance their parenting skills and employability, fostering an environment that nurtures their child’s learning potential and overall well-being, and harnessing effective parenting as a source of nurturing resilient youth.

Youth Resiliency

We provide growth opportunities for students, to build their resiliency through targeted mentorship and support programs.

Our Programs

Our Projects

Bringing St. Jude’s Walls to Life with Inspiration and Colour

The walls at St. Jude’s Primary have been transformed into a canvas of hope, learning, and creativity! Our dedicated team of eight volunteer artists gave their Saturdays, and even some Sundays, to paint 27 vibrant murals across the school. Each mural tells a story, whether motivational, civic, spiritual, or educational, turning blank walls into daily reminders that inspire both students and staff. A highlight of the project came when students from the school’s Art Club picked up their brushes and joined the effort. Together, they created two powerful murals: one celebrating peace, and another proudly displaying a map of Jamaica. The pride on the children’s faces and the joy expressed by their art teacher captured the powerful impact of giving young people the space to discover their voices and talents. Through this project, art has become more than decoration; it has become a tool for empowerment, pride, and community spirit.

Parenting Seminars

The 180 Degree Foundation team on April 6, 2024, conducted a parenting session at Tarrant Primary School during a health fair hosted by UWI Faculty of Medical Science, Interprofessional Outreach Committee, and Kiwanis Club. The parents were challenged with questions such as: Why is it so difficult being a parent? and How have your own experiences affected how you treat/parent your children? They were also encouraged to see the future they wanted for their children and given strategies for investing in that vision. At the end, the parents shared how impactful the session was for them and that this type of conversation was needed in their communities.

Grade 6 Send-Off: “Setting the Table for Success”

As a highlight of our Personal Development Program and a fitting finale to the school year, our Grade 6 Send-Off took place on June 26, 2025, at The Ambassadors and what a memorable celebration it was!

Under the inspiring theme “Setting the Table for Success,” students and teachers came together for a joyful, engaging experience that marked a meaningful milestone in our students’ journey. The event brought together 145 excited Grade 6 students, 8 dedicated St. Jude’s staff members, 3 supportive parents, and 16 enthusiastic volunteers.

The program featured a fun and informative dining etiquette session led by the ever-charming Ms. Althea Laing, as well as a heartfelt keynote address by the relatable and inspiring Mrs. Waynette Strachan-Nelson. To top it all off, gospel artiste Mr. Rian Davis lifted spirits with a powerful performance that had everyone smiling, clapping and dancing.

The Grade 6 Send-Off wasn’t just a celebration; it was a launchpad, preparing our students to step confidently into the next chapter of their academic and personal journeys.

Project Reports

What People Say About
Our Organization

I must say that you have impacted especially Grades 3,4 5 and 6. The painting of the classrooms made the place fresh and inviting. Children could quote the motivational statements Aunty Danielle shared with them. The addition of a bathroom cleaning janitor really helped to make the bathrooms inviting for the children to use. I forgot the impact of you getting the Medical Faculty to come to the Health Fair. It was the best Health Fair yet. Very professional. The Grade 6 teachers shared that they felt motivated by their tokens and the tokens that were given to Grade 6 - Wow! I laud you and your team for being professionals in all you do for us and the children. You go far and beyond. You are a peaceful, loving God-fearing team”

There are few greater feelings than being refreshed by being in the company of children whose hearts are hungry and open to receiving your love and care. During Read Across Jamaica Day at St Jude's Primary, I was in awe of their purity and trust: it fills you with a persistent joy and re-orders your life priorities. Serving with 180 Degree Foundation has been such a blessing for me.

“Miss, mi glad mi get di book dem. Mi can finally do mi work!” Mrs. Mattis-Forbes, Grade 6 teacher at St. Jude’s Primary relays the sentiment of one of the students who received well needed textbooks to assist in preparation for their Primary Exit Profile (PEP) exams. Just one small act with lasting impact. #impactinglives

Get Involved

Join us in making a difference! By getting involved with our charitable organization, you become a vital part of a community dedicated to creating positive change. Whether you volunteer your time, donate resources, or lend your voice, every action counts. Together, we can provide support to those in need, advocate for important causes, and build a brighter future. Take the first step today—your involvement can transform lives. Email us at volunteer@180degreeja.org

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