Caribbean American Cultural Arts Foundation is a national organization, based in Atlanta, Georgia. We are a non-profit organization dedicated to the development of cultural arts programs, climate resilience, and educational mentorship. C.A.C.A.F. values our communities and the people that we serve. We are dedicated to activities that enrich and enhance the communities.
ABOUT US
ABOUT US
OUR STORY
The foundation was founded by Michael Thomas, a native of the United States Virgin Islands. He saw the need to connect the next generation to quality programs that share the rich culture of the Caribbean. This led to the creation of the Caribbean American Cultural Arts Foundation to support collegiate mentorship which offers students an opportunity to build their professional skills. The foundation was founded in 2016, to support disaster relief efforts in the Caribbean, due to the increase in climate activities throughout the region. We started with support of islands in the Caribbean impacted by hurricanes Irma and Maria.
During the global pandemic 2020, we launched our Cultural Connect program which created a holistic and supportive ecosystem designed to educate and bridge the gap in cultural understanding. During the pandemic, we completed extensive mental health workshops and senior health services. We helped over 200 individuals with our services.
Our vision with the help of our partners realized tremendous success in local partnerships established, fundraising, new tools created, thriving workshops with greater than anticipated participation, and useful lessons learned that assist in furthering the goals of CACAF. We build an efficient diverse community of inclusion through our programs. We focus on Youth Arts STEAM, Climate Resilience, and Community Services.
As the Chairman of CACAF, I am always excited to see the faces of the young people to whom we offer programs. It is paramount that the younger generation is involved in creative and cultural programs, which will help build emotional intelligence. Our community services have impacted a wide demographic from ages 5-95.
Michael Thomas and recipients of Kick-Start grant from Tennesse State University.
Pictured:Ria Edoo. Michael Thomas, Governer Brian Kemp, and Rep Pedro Marin.
History and Mission
Leadership.Community.Culture.
Since our inception in 2016, the Caribbean American Cultural Arts Foundation (CACAF), has partnered with the private sector, community-based organizations, and the NGOs of Caribbean nations to support disaster-affected communities in those countries. Recognizing the need to establish year-round programs that facilitate the use of art as a way to address the lack of artistic programming and simultaneously broaden cultural understanding.
In 2020, CACAF partnered with several Atlanta-based nonprofits to help expand the organization's existing programming and to establish our signature Cultural Connect Program. This youth development program integrates cultural exploration, science,
engineering, and presentation of arts, culture, and humanities. We continue to collaborate with organizations, corporations, municipalities, and donors to expand our programs.
Impacting Change
We impact positive change in a community through our programs. Our team conducts thorough assessments to identify the specific needs and challenges within the community. Our engagement has included our Kick-Start grant to give scholarships, grants, and resources to deserving you. We involve community members, local leaders, and other stakeholders in the planning process.
Their input is crucial for understanding the community's dynamics and ensuring the success of our programs. We tailor programs to address the identified needs, which include educational initiatives, health programs, economic development projects, and social services. We have developed strategies to ensure that positive changes are maintained and can continue to benefit the community over time.
WHO WE ARE
Meet our Team
Our board is comprised of a diverse group of professionals. They play a crucial role in the governance and strategic direction of an organization. Our board oversees the organization's mission, ensure legal and ethical integrity, and represents the interests of the community served. They bring their diverse skills, expertise, and perspectives. Their roles are fundamental to the success and sustainability of the organization, providing leadership, oversight, and support for the fulfillment of the organization's mission.
A native of the US Virgin Islands, Michael founded the organization in 2016, which was created to support the arts and disaster relief efforts. Thomas is a graduate of the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale. He has worked for several Fortune 500 organizations.
Chairman
MICHAEL THOMAS
YVETTE THOMAS-HENRY
Yvette Thomas-Henry serves as interim VP Executive Director. She has served as Regional Vice President and General Manager at Four Seasons, where she lead a multimillion dollar enhancement project which was ranked in the top ten in the travel industry.
*VP Executive Director
MICHAEL THOMAS
Chief Financial Officer
Indira has a wealth of knowledge about all aspects of financial arena, ranging from real estate agent to over a decade as a mortgage loan originator. Indira is a trusted advisor, providing expert guidance to the organization. She is a dedicated advocate to educating the community on the benefits of homeownership and building generational wealth.
INDIRA SAUNDERS
Chief Financial Officer
BONNY FRIPP
Special Events
Fripp is an accomplished meeting and events manager offering demonstrated leadership to guide projects to successful results. She has over 20 years proficiency in the implementation of meetings and special-events planning and execution.
Board Members
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PRESS
In the News
No Publicity is Bad Publicity.
The Caribbean American Cultural Arts Foundation has been featured in various news publications. Over the past few years, we have been recognized for our work and contributions to our community. Special Thanks to Henton Jones Media and MSquared PR.
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A native of the US Virgin Islands, Michael founded the organization in 2016, which was created to support the arts and disaster relief efforts. Thomas is a graduate of the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale. He has worked for several Fortune 500 organizations.
Chairman
MICHAEL THOMAS
Michael Thomas
A native of the US Virgin Islands, Michael founded the organization in 2016, which was created to support the arts and disaster relief efforts. Thomas is a graduate of the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale. He has worked for several Fortune 500 organizations.
Chairman
INDIRA SAUNDERS
MICHAEL THOMAS
Indira has a wealth of knowledge about all aspects of financial arena, ranging from real estate agent to over a decade as a mortgage loan originator. Indira is a trusted advisor, providing expert guidance to the organization. She is a dedicated advocate to educating the community on the benefits of homeownership and building generational wealth.
Chief Financial Officer
BONNY FRIPP
Special Events
Fripp is an accomplished meeting and events manager offering demonstrated leadership to guide projects to successful results. She has over 20 years proficiency in the implementation of meetings and special-events planning and execution.