The mission of CHNY is to produce an over-the-top spectacular event, make a positive difference in the communities we visit, and have a great time doing it!

CHNY is a unique annual multicultural celebration of the human experience. We share its creation with a growing community of friends we call the Gecko Family from the United States, Jamaica, and other parts of the world. We believe that travel can lead to a deeper understanding of cultures and philosophies different from our own. The intention of the celebration is to do what we can with what we have to build a culture of peace and community through travel, music, arts, and play to set a positive tone for the New Year.

We ask each CHNY participant to bring a child's backpack filled with 2-3 children's books, and school & art supplies.  We have also added musical instruments and recreational equipment to our CHNY donations wish list!  Check the Service Projects section for specific guidelines on what instruments and sports equipment are needed and practical in Jamaica.  There will be a CHNY donation drop off center at Negril Escape on the cliff side of Negril the entire week of Feb 2-9. There will also be donation drop off bins at CHNY events. 

Philosophy

Travel, education, art, music, creativity, and play are all pathways to inspiration and knowledge.  They are also foundations for a thriving community and healthy children. When you come to Jamaica for CHNY2k8 you will experience a dazzling good time sharing memories, making friends, dancing by the sea, and helping build community. Our philosophy is one of responsible and sustainable tourism.  CHNY intends that you will not only revel in the celebration, but also take pause to experience the natural beauty and rich culture Jamaica is famous for.  Please join us in supporting local businesses whenever possible

The children's backpacks filled with school & art supplies and a couple of gently used books will be distributed to needy children as part of DeepBlueRipple International's service projects. Read more about our donation drive wish list.

We are here to guide your experience in Jamaica through the multicultural community we call the Gecko Family. We ask that you do your part in informing yourself on Jamaican culture and CHNY before visiting. Our website is a good starting point.

We believe for tourism to be sustainable it must create tangible benefits for the people who live in the destination community while providing an authentic experience to the visitor. Thus, CHNY produces travel experiences that promote cross-cultural understanding, education, music, recreation, and art.

CHNY enjoys meeting new people and each year our community grows stronger. All are welcome to participate in CHNY, just email us and ask to be connected with our volunteer coordinator for more information. If you come to the celebration we ask that you be nonviolent, self-reliant, and respectful of others. Your participation in the creation of the event is encouraged and appreciated.

There have been many changes to CHNY as it has grown and become linked to DeepBlueRipple International, Inc. so we ask both old & new Geckos to please visit:

• The FAQ page
• The Community Page
• You may also visit us on MySpace.
• To volunteer, just contact us and let us know how you can help.

"I never knew I would feel more at home in Jamaica than I do in my own home town!! One love." -  Kat