Why the Haitian Center of Evansville Matters

When people leave everything they know to build a better future, they don’t just need a place to live. They need a community willing to help them belong.

The Haitian Center of Evansville exists to be that community.

As the only organization in Evansville dedicated specifically to serving the Haitian community, the Center helps individuals and families overcome the challenges of starting over in a new country. Their mission is simple but powerful: provide the resources, support, and connections people need to achieve independence while strengthening the entire community. (Haitian Center EVV⁠)

The Center offers free English classes, interpretation and translation services, workforce readiness training, immigration resource workshops, cultural education, and personalized referrals for housing, healthcare, food assistance, and other essential services. They also invest in the next generation through youth culture camps that help children stay connected to their Haitian heritage while building confidence in their new home. More than 3,500 clients have already been served, and hundreds of community members have participated in cultural training that helps build understanding across Evansville. (Haitian Center EVV⁠)

I chose this organization because Haiti has forever changed my life. I had the privilege of teaching in Haiti, and I still stay connected to the interpreters who welcomed me there. I’ve also had the honor of teaching Haitian students whose resilience and determination continue to inspire me.

For my 50th birthday, I can’t think of a better way to celebrate than by investing in people, hope, and opportunity.

Every gift—no matter the size—helps a family find their footing, a child embrace their heritage, and a neighbor feel seen, supported, and welcomed. If you believe everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive, I invite you to celebrate with me by making a donation or sharing this campaign with others.

Together, we can turn one birthday into a lasting investment in an entire community.