About CACAO

The story, mission, and future of Central Alabama's Caribbean community.

Our Mission

Central Alabama Caribbean American Organization is a social organization whose main purpose is to be a resource for students from the Caribbean who have chosen to pursue their education at one of the many universities in central Alabama.


Our goal is to fulfill our mission while sharing the best of Caribbean culture with the local community. Through community events, cultural showcases, and our primary initiative — raising funds to provide higher education scholarships for Caribbean American students — we strive to build a legacy of strength, unity, and excellence.


Support a Student
CACAO scholarship recipients and organizers posing together at an awards event

Our History

The dream of CACAO began in 2010 with an idea shared among friends. At the time, Founder Pauline Ford knew of only 3 Jamaicans and one Trinidadian in Birmingham, but had been informed that there were several other Caribbean people who had been living in the area for a number of years.


With encouragement primarily from Ms. Ford's friends, Pauline Jolly and Kirk Thame, the first meeting convened in January of 2011 at the Smolian International House on the campus of the University of Alabama at Birmingham. A second meeting followed in April where the group was formalized. That in turn led to a "Meet and Greet" which was graciously hosted by Kirk and saw approximately 60 persons in attendance.


With the help of Maureen Richards, Peggy Watson, Angela Balfour Franklin, Brian Spellen and all who shared the vision and gave of their time, talent and resources, Central Alabama Caribbean American Organization was born and there was no looking back.


The CACAO logo was created by Michael Talbot, who was then a very talented high school student in Jamaica. Michael is now an accomplished artist residing in Boston.

Our Future

The reactions are no longer snide nor cynical when people first hear about us — yes, in fact there is a Caribbean organization in Central Alabama, and not only that, their list of accomplishments is quite impressive.

As CACAO has grown, so has its reputation and the respect and enthusiasm with which it is viewed in the community. The organization now has two firmly established events — the Caribbean Food & Music Festival in June and the Dinner Dance in December — along with its collaboration with Birmingham Sister Cities.


With a solid board in place that is energetic, focused, and eager to continue seeking ways to take the organization to the next level, we can proudly proclaim… yes indeed, there is a Caribbean organization in Central Alabama — so get on board and help us grow!