By Barbara Ellington, Senior Gleaner Writer 
Russell and Kimora Simmons at the Upliftment Awards in White Horses, St.Thomas on the weekend. - Ian Allen/Staff Photographer
AMERICAN HIP-HOP mogul, Russell Simmons has pledged his continued support of the five-year old Jamaican charity Upliftment Jamaica, headed by Gary Foster. He made the commitment at the fifth anniversary gala and awards presentation of Upliftment Jamaica held in Whitehorses, St. Thomas last Saturday night.
Hundreds of villagers, American entertainment industry movers and shakers, politicians and the curious, converged on the quaint Jamaican community to witness the Holly-wood-style affair.
It was a night for Mr. Foster, the organisation's founder and chairman to say thanks to many of his friends from America, as well as partners and staff in Jamaica who received plaques and crystal trophies for their contribution.
In his remarks, Mr. Simmons who was accompanied by his wife, Kimora Lee Simmons, and their two infant daughters, said he would definitely be back next year. "I am humbled by the work being done, and I will do everything to see that Gary is able to continue this great effort."
HIGH FASHION MODEL
For her contribution, high
fashion model and president and creative director of Baby Phat Inc., Kimora Lee Simmons, received the Upliftment Philanthropy Award.
In their remarks, Portia Simpson Miller, minister of local government and sports, and James Robertson, member of Parliament for Western St. Thomas, welcomed the large contingent of visitors to Jamaica and acknowledged the sterling efforts of Mr. Foster and his team.
Keynote speaker, Michael Steele, lieutenant. governor of the state of Maryland, U.S.A. said Mr. Foster's vision for his community has driven others to make a difference in someone's life. "That vision has been turned into action and I urge others to remember the communities from which you have come. Upliftment Jamaica offers us all the foundation on which to build a better future for all," he said.
Other awardees included: Leon Robinson who received the Humanitarian Award; BET Executive Vice-President, Raymond Goulbourne who got the Outstanding Community Leadership award; Peter Bunting of Dehring Bunting and Golding Limited for corporate leadership; Rodney Pryce (Bounty Killer) the 'Upliftment Ambassador'; and Dennis Hawthorne of Dennis Shipping received the International Community Services Award.
