Donovan Longmore and his wife Jackie are not only passionate in their love for each other but also in the causes they embrace. They speak the same language when it comes to making a difference in the lives of others.
It was this love and commitment that saw them launching a non-profit – the D&J Longmore Foundation – in 2023, with its focus on uplifting underserved communities across Africa, Jamaica and the United States.
In an interview with Freedom Come Rain, Donovan said the foundation is rooted and guided by a mission of compassion, empowerment, social development and services, providing essential support to the hungry and less fortunate through food assistance programmes and faith-based and sustainable outreach initiatives.
“With a strong belief in the power of faith and education, we help send children to school and foster lifelong learning opportunities that can transform lives, beyond education,” he highlighted.
In sharing about the other programmes they push through the foundation, Donovan said it champions community development through initiatives in agriculture, entrepreneurship, sports, church, media and the arts—promoting self-reliance, creativity, and economic growth.They also support back-to-school initiatives and Bible studies, end-of-school-year treats and the purchase of Christmas gifts in Jamaica.
“As a team, my wife and I are dedicated to making a difference in communities. There are many challenges, especially finances and people who are willing to help. Nonetheless, we are truly committed and enjoy giving back,” shared Donovan, who since he embraced Christ as his Lord and Saviour, ensures he shares that love, not just by talking about it but through tangible means.
Reflecting on the time he made that commitment, he summed it up as “an awesome feeling”. “Being in the world made me bitter and stressed because I was always looking for solutions. After walking with God, I found peace and happiness that I can tell others about. It’s been terrific so far,” he revealed, adding that challenges came, but with faith in God and by allowing Him to take the lead, both he and his wife as a team, praying together, are the true reflection of “iron sharpening iron”.
Both he and Jackie’s journey with the Lord started several years ago, and his wife is now a minister. He shared that it was really her idea to start a foundation.
“Our faith and prayer is the real power behind our mission, and we are grateful for all the blessings God has given us,” he said.
Looking ahead, Donovan said their ultimate goal is to help as many people as possible. As faithful believers, he said they are rooted in the concept of being cheerful givers, praying and putting God first in all they do.
Aside from the foundation, Donovan is very involved in diaspora affairs, as he chairs the state of Connecticut as a community leader and a peace ambassador.
“We will also be engaged in charity work in the Philippines,” he informed, also stating that both his wife and he are partners in community tourism in Jamaica.
Born in Montego Bay, Donovan attended Lethe All-Age School in Hanover before migrating to the United States in late 1978.
Living in the States, he soon realised the lack of Caribbean presence in his community. He became an on-air radio personality in 1988, which enabled him to host, market, and promote forums and programmes on a global level.
His devotion to the Caribbean diaspora has inspired him to be an advocate for numerous causes in the West Indian spectrum. He is the representative for the NE region of the Jamaica Diaspora Council and serves on several task forces. He is the VP of Marketing and Public Relations for Community Tourism in Jamaica and is an ambassador for African Union Region 6.
His leadership as a humanitarian and media personality was recognised by various states, and he was honoured with numerous awards, such as the 100 Men of Colour and the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award. A loving and devoted husband, father, mentor, tutor, speaker and basketball coach, he credits his blessings to God and family.
