A.C.E.’s history began with our founder, Marla Fitzwater, frequenting the island of Jamaica on business-related travel. Through these regular and frequent trips, Marla began to fall in love with the whole of Jamaica, its beautiful setting and its people. Over years of developing long-term relationships, she began to develop a dream to move to the island permanently and begin a camp. This camp would be used to host short-term mission teams from the United States as they ministered to the people of Jamaica.

This dream became a reality in the late 1980’s. With the help of a completely Jamaican staff, The Bethel Camp for mission teams was opened near the central part of the island. For five years the ministry successfully accomplished its objectives and Marla’s heart was more and more endeared to the people of Jamaica.

Shorly after opening the camp, Marla faced some devastating personal challenges and drastic life changes. She spent some time Stateside, renewed herself before God and had re-established her vision. Using her expertise and contacts, she began hosting short-term mission teams through another organization for the next five years. Again, the Lord saw fit to bless this endeavor through changed lives…Jamaican and American.

ACE was founded with a mission to bring hope, healing and opportunity to the people of St. Mary’s parish. Since then, ACE, under Marla's leadership and with the support of her husband, Allen, has experienced many years of God’s blessings as we have seen lives changed through the love of God’s people.

Ministry Statistics 20 years of ministry in Jamaica Around 600 children in ACE-sponsored schools 180 children needing sponsorship Over 25 Micro-Business loans given to date Over 500 short-term trips to date About 900 patients seen on each quarterly medical mission trip 100-130 people residing in the infirmary at any given time Built or improved 200+ buildings Around 1,000 Jamaicans visiting Galina Breeze Hotel each year for events and workshops