On Thursday August 18, 2016, Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement, Inc. (HCCI) held its 11th Jamboree!: A Soulful Extravaganza on the Hudson, on board the Hornblower Infinity yacht. Jamboree hosted approximately 300 guests and featured a special performance by celebrated r&b singer Howard Hewett, formerly of the group Shalamar.
The yacht-ride was held from 7:00pm to 10:00pm and offered a performance by comedian Mike Troy AKA Brooklyn Mike, DJ Kevin Gould spinning soul and house classics, an all-you-can-eat buffet and a magnificent cruise along the Hudson River. Participants networked, snapped selfies, sang along with Howard Hewett and danced the night away.
“This was my first year participating and I had an amazing time,” said Luc Josaphat, a Managing Director at Harlem United. “The energy on the yacht was really warm and freindly. It was a great introduction to HCCI. I look forward to learning more, and attending the next Jamboree!”
The biennial fundraiser is a favorite for HCCI Chairman Rev. Charles A. Curtis, Ed. D. “The Jamboree affords our residents to contribute to HCCI, while having a really, really good time,” he said. “This event helps to encourage a sense of commitment and connection to HCCI, among community residents. It’s a wonderful celebration!”
This fun-filled event will benefit the HCCI Computer Clubhouse and HCCI’s Small Business Initiative. To celebrate local businesses, the Jamboree program listed all 60 members of the Bradhurst Merchants Association (BMA) in its Jamboree program.
LaChena Clark, President of the BMA said, “HCCI founded and incubated the BMA. Now that we are a fully independent nonprofit organization, HCCI has remained our biggest supporter. We are proud to be represented on this year’s Jamboree, and to be a part of HCCI’s 30-year legacy.”
This year, sponsors included Harlem Community Development Corporation; Chase Bank, Community Preservation Corporation; New York Life; Total Restoration, Inc.; Winn Companies, Chocolat, New York Mortgage Coalition, Prestige Management, Tender Tots Exact Capital, Tender Tots Childcare Center, Ariva, New York Business Solutions, The Walker Firm and Camber Property Group.
“One of the main reasons we host this event is to experience fellowship with our community residents and partners. This year, Curtis Archer, President of HCDC presented us with a check for $52,000 to demonstrate their commitment to our work,” said Malcolm A. Punter, President and CEO of HCCI. “The Jamboree is always a fun and fruitful affair. We look forward to many more!”
HCCI is a diverse consortium of interfaith congregations established to revitalize the physical, economic, cultural, and spiritual conditions of the Harlem community. HCCI has made a substantial impact on the social and living conditions prevalent in Harlem by developing low to moderate income housing; creating supportive health and human service facilities and programs; providing commercial development opportunities to local businesses; and expanding cultural programs.
