The United States House of Representatives has honored renowned Jamaican businessman, Kevin Hendrickson, managing director of The Courtleigh Hospitality Group (CHG) in Kingston, the Jamaican capital, for being “a courageous, resilient, intelligent and loving community leader, and as a valued member of the community who dedicated his time to ensuring the betterment of his employees and customers.”
According to CHG, the US Congressional Proclamation was signed by Democratic Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke, the daughter of Jamaican immigrants, who represents the 9th Congressional District in Brooklyn.
“A continual effort to strengthen local communities here in Jamaica is at the heart of our business model,” said Hendrickson in a statement. “We take great pride in giving back to local charities, engaging our guests to do the same, and empowering staff involved in community service programs.
“It is particularly gratifying to see that our efforts have resonance within the US House of Representatives,” he added. “I’m truly honored to receive this proclamation on behalf of my family, our dedicated staff and partners.”
A veteran of 35-odd years in the Jamaica hospitality industry, CHG said on Wednesday that Hendrickson owns and operates the majority of hotel accommodations in Kingston (870 rooms).
His CHG comprises The Courtleigh Hotel & Suites, The Knutsford Court Hotel, The Jamaica Pegasus and the former Wyndham Kingston Hotel (now in re-development).
CHG said Hendrickson’s hospitality portfolio also includes the 512-room Holiday Inn Resort® Montego Bay, “a property long renowned for providing Jamaica’s best all-inclusive vacation value.”
“Personalized service and excellent value are hallmarks of every Hendrickson-owned hotel, ensuring optimal guest satisfaction,” the statement said. “Mr. Hendrickson employs a hands-on approach to maintaining the high service levels for which his properties are known.
“Whether greeting guests in the lobby, overseeing new construction, or serving on the buffet line, Mr. Hendrickson is never above doing whatever it takes to provide the ultimate guest experience,” it added.
A strong believer in giving back to the community, CHG said Hendrickson also supports numerous charitable organizations, including Missionaries of the Poor, the Jamaica Cancer Society, The Salvation Army and Food for the Poor.
“Corporate social responsibility and giving back to the local community go hand-in-hand with business success,” Hendrickson said.
In addition to his noteworthy hospitality holdings, CHG said Hendrickson also owns and operates other businesses, including several popular bakeries in Jamaica – Dr. Lushus in Old Harbour, Yummy in Kingston, Holsum in Manchester and Kingston’s Courtleigh Corporate Centre.
