History
The legacy of Hanover Charities began with Willy Delisser, a Custos of Hanover, and his wife Ida. Their commitment to the community started with a simple act of kindness—donating a cow for Christmas lunch at local hospitals. This tradition, combined with their hospitality towards visitors and royalty, caught the attention of philanthropic guests at Round Hill Hotel, managed by Willy’s cousin John Pringle.
An unexpected donation from a winter visitor inspired Willy, John Pringle, and the Round Hill community to rally further support for the holiday giving tradition. Concurrently, the Delissers’ sale of Tryall property to American investors led to the creation of a world-class golf resort. This economic development, alongside the philanthropic efforts of Round Hill and Tryall shareholders, led to the founding of Hanover Charities in 1957.
Fast forward 60 years, and Hanover Charities is now one of Western Jamaica’s leading charitable organizations. Under the leadership of chairpersons like Sandy Morris and Paula Watkins, and currently Katrin Casserly, the charity has reached new heights. With Casserly’s guidance as a naturalized Jamaican, the organization maintains close oversight on projects and addresses emerging community needs. In 2023, Hanover Charities awarded over US$ 180,000 in scholarships to 205 students. With a talented and dedicated board, Hanover Charities is poised for continued success and growth in the decades to come.
Our Mission
We are wholly committed to the betterment of health, welfare, and education within our Parish. We channel our efforts into a multitude of charitable programs each year. Our initiatives include providing meals to school children, the elderly, and the less fortunate, along with supporting health services through various clinics and projects. We are passionate about empowering the youth and do so by partnering with organizations that emphasize education and positive values.
The Morris-Watkins Memorial Scholarships also reflect our dedication, offering financial assistance to students with potential but limited means. These programs are primarily funded by our annual Sugar Cane Ball, a renowned and celebrated event on the international social calendar. We take pride in our volunteer-driven ethos and our status as a 501(C)3 organization in the USA. For further insights into this flagship event, please click here.
Our Board
The Board of Hanover Charities is made up of individuals passionate about uplifting Hanover Parish. We rely entirely on the commitment of dedicated volunteers, operating with only one paid staff. Each member brings a unique expertise, contributing to the charity's success in funding essential projects and identifying crucial needs. Their passion drives Hanover Charities' mission to create a positive impact in the lives of those we serve.
Katrin Casserly
Chair
Jennifer Flanagan
Vice Chair
Karen Sangster-Grant
Treasurer & Secretary
Dantae Oliver
Operations Manager
Dr. David Stair
Board Member
Paula Kovinsky
Board Member
Josef Forstmayr
Board Member
Candace Hart
Board Member
Our Advisory Board Members
In 2019, Hanover Charities welcomed a group of valuable advisors and friends to its Advisory Board. Each member brings heartful support and diverse expertise. We are delighted to introduce:-
Patricia Falkenberg (Fundraising)
Vanessa Noel (Fundraising)
Nan Brenninkmeyer (Fundraising & Planning)
Fenella Holland (Public Relations)
April Phinney (COL Purchasing)
Anne Cofer (Sugar Cane Ball support)
Join your hand with us for a better life and beautiful future.
Key Statistical Data
USD 2.2M
In scholarships helping students though our scholarship fund.
USD 2.38M
In charitable outreach to community projects
500+ Volunteers
Volunteers and Donors, businesses and individuals with good hearts.
Our Friends
84% of our total operating expenses fund programs for children in the countries we serve. So when you make a monthly gift or donation to our organization, the majority of your dollars go toward exactly what you intended
