Jamaica

Alligator Head Foundation

In Jamaica, we worked with the Alligator Head Foundation (AHF), a leading organization managing a marine protected area on the island’s northeast coast. Jamaica’s conservation sector is unique: many marine sanctuaries are run by non-governmental organizations that collaborate closely rather than compete. Wardens are shared between sites, training is coordinated across sanctuaries, and managers stay connected through both formal partnerships and informal networks.

To better understand this ecosystem, we used two methods from our Stakeholder Engagement Toolkit: relational mapping and the AVI values inventory. Relational maps helped us visualize the network of organizations, government agencies, community members, and funders that shape marine protection on the island—revealing a highly collaborative culture built on trust and resource-sharing, with AHF playing a central role in convening these relationships.

In parallel, we conducted a series of values exercises with AHF’s leadership team. Using the AVI (Articulating Values & Interests), we first identified each team member’s top ten individual values, then generated an aggregated “Top Ten Team Values” dataset. These results became the foundation for a workshop where team members shared personal stories about living in alignment—or misalignment—with their values. The process fostered validation, deeper connection, and renewed commitment across the leadership team.

Together, the mapping and values exercises offered AHF new ways to see both their external partnerships and their internal alignment, highlighting how strengthening relationships and shared purpose can support their long-term goals for reef restoration.

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View the map prototype below ↓