My name is Norma Jean McLachlan, I am the founder & CEO of the Norma Jean McLachlan Foundation. I was born in Jamaica where I grew up in the Kingston 13 community, a dressmaker by trade. I migrated to America with my children 30 years ago.

After settling in the United States, I really wanted to do something for my community of Sunlight Street Kingston 13, Jamaica, because I never wanted to forget where I came from. This desire is what compelled me to start the Norma Jean McLachlan Foundation with my children, other family members and close friends.

I moved to the city of Chicago from Jamaica where I have been working at Norwegian American Hospital for 30 years. I manage fundraising with the help of my small staff and family members to buy items for back to school supplies, food, clothing and to pay for these items to be shipped to Jamaica.

The foundation has also branched out to helping the needy stateside as well, mainly in the Chicagoland area. We are committed to serving the needy, and we are committed to youth and the elderly in underserved communities.

I consider this foundation my pride and joy. It has allowed my children to see my vision and given them the opportunity to serve alongside me and help this vision come true. It’s my desire for this association to become a part of my legacy that is passed on to future generations.