04/11/2026
The Yard 2 Yard Foundation is adding a 3rd Family into the Charity Mix. This addition is very exciting!
I want to introduce to you Michael Downer (32 yrs old) and his son Dondre Downer (9 yrs old). Michael Downer is a Social Justice Warrior in Jamaica who is one of the most eloquent fellas I have met in a long time. Michael is the President of the National Hospitality Workers Union (NHWU) in Jamaica as well as a volunteer for the Jamaican Beach Birthright Environmental Movement (JaBBEM).
We at The Yard 2 Yard Foundation want to support Michael and Dondre financially so Michael can continue his important missions to support underpaid Tourism Sector Workers and to save Jamaicas last remaining Public Beaches.
I have a very long range plan to get the right people together to start a 3rd Federal Political Party in Jamaica, and Michael is right at the top of my recruitment list... but that is a story for another day.
This is the video that introduced me to Michael Downer and showed me many of his impressive skills. I am going to back this fella 100%.... watch it:
https://youtu.be/cHnt9fvQdWw?si=-XiHQqP-Llvh6fHC
Here is Michael Downer’s recent life story, take the time to read it. I might be creating a separate Patreon Campaign for him.
Michael Downer’s Story as written by him:
“I am writing to share my personal journey and the circumstances that led to the formation of the National Hospitality Workers Union (NHWU) an organization committed to advocating for the dignity, rights, and fair treatment of tourism workers across Jamaica.
On November 18, 2024, I was terminated from my position at Royalton Blue Waters after taking a principled stand for myself and my colleagues. I spoke out in support of better treatment and fair compensation for Jamaican workers, emphasizing the need for a balanced, mutually beneficial approach to growth within the tourism industry. I also offered constructive ideas aimed at improving guest retention and strengthening the overall tourism product contributions that were acknowledged and even applauded by members of management at the time.
However, just two(2) weeks later, I was issued a termination letter with immediate effect. When I sought clarification from Human Resources regarding the grounds for my dismissal, I was informed that no reason needed to be provided.
In the aftermath, I encountered significant professional barriers. Despite my extensive experience as a butler and in tourism operations, I was unable to secure new employment. In one instance, after applying to the Princess hotel in Hanover, my candidacy was deemed “unsuitable,” even as the same position continued to be advertised. Based on these experiences, I have strong reason to believe that I have been informally blacklisted due to my advocacy and willingness to speak publicly about worker conditions.
Rather than retreat, I chose to transform this experience into purpose. With the support of a small but committed group, I founded the National Hospitality Workers Union (NHWU). Now one year into its existence, the union continues to grow as a voice for workers who have long gone unheard workers who are essential to Jamaica’s tourism success yet remain underrepresented and undervalued.
At a personal level, the consequences of this journey have been extremely difficult. Since my termination, it has been a constant struggle to meet basic needs; hungry days hopeless nights. There have been times when finding food has been uncertain, and providing for my son has required painful sacrifices. He has had to cut back on many essentials, and the financial strain has also affected him psychologically, particularly as he navigates school under these conditions.
For me, the burden has extended beyond finances. There are moments when the pressure weighs heavily on my mental and emotional well-being. Despite this, I remain committed to hope and to the belief that meaningful change is possible for myself, for my son, and for the many workers who share similar realities.
Currently, I receive limited support through small collaborative efforts, including providing graphic work, which helps to cover my rent. However, this support is inconsistent and often insufficient. Utilities, transportation, food, and other basic responsibilities remain a constant challenge. There are times when I am able to secure a small amount for food, but overall, financial support has been very limited.
This reality highlights not only my personal need, but also the urgent need for support to sustain the work we are doing through NHWU. My situation reflects the very conditions we are fighting to change.
I share this with humility and transparency to express the immediate need for assistance. Financial support at this time would directly help with essential living expenses food, utilities, transportation, and stability for my son while also enabling me to continue the work of advocating for tourism workers across Jamaica.
My name is Michael Downer, and I serve as the President of the National Hospitality Workers Union. I remain committed to this mission, even in the face of significant hardship, because I believe deeply in the dignity and worth of our people.
I look forward to sharing more about our work, our vision, and the impact your support can help us achieve.”
Sincerely,
Michael Downer
President, National Hospitality Workers Union (NHWU)
