Legacy50 Campaign: 50 Years of HAUP Empowering Haitian Americans and Immigrant Families

By Haitiabeatz

For five decades, Haitian Americans United for Progress (HAUP) has opened doors and created lasting change for countless families. Every milestone, every story of success, speaks to HAUP’s mission: to uplift, inspire, and give a fair shot to immigrants reaching for the American dream.

The Legacy50 Campaign honors this proud history and looks ahead. It celebrates the achievements of the past while driving a bold plan for the next generation. This campaign isn’t just about looking back. It’s about coming together now to fuel brighter opportunities and protect the promise of community support for years to come.

HAUP’s vision lives on through the Legacy50 Campaign—let’s recognize the journey, celebrate the progress, and work as one for the future our communities deserve.

The Origins and Evolution of HAUP

Looking back at the roots of Haitian Americans United for Progress (HAUP), you'll find a story shaped by urgent needs, shared dreams, and a community determined to stand strong in the face of challenges. Over the past fifty years, HAUP has not only helped Haitian Americans thrive but has also grown to lift up all immigrant families seeking hope and support.

HAUP's Formation: Addressing a Community's Needs

HAUP began in 1975 during a period when Haitian immigrants faced real hardship in New York. Many had left Haiti because of political turmoil and poverty, arriving in Brooklyn with little more than hope and a will to work hard. The founders, led by people like Reverend Jean-Claude Exceus, saw families struggling with language, housing, and jobs. There was no clear path to stability.

Together, they created HAUP to offer practical help. The first goal was simple but profound: make sure no Haitian newcomer felt lost in a new country. Early programs included English classes, job placement support, and guidance on U.S. laws and rights. Even then, the volunteers behind HAUP believed in strength through unity and cared deeply about preserving culture while helping families succeed.

Major Milestones and Achievements

Over five decades, HAUP stacked up real wins that reached far beyond basic services. The group pushed for justice, empowered youth, and served as a trusted resource. Here are just some highlights:

• Immigration Advocacy: HAUP became a strong advocate for fair immigration rules and citizenship rights, representing Haitian Americans in city and federal hearings.

• Youth Empowerment: Programs like afterschool tutoring and summer camps gave kids fun and safe spaces to grow and learn.

• Economic Support: Help with job training, financial literacy, and small business counseling opened doors for adults and families.

• Health and Wellness: HAUP organized community health fairs, offered HIV/AIDS prevention, and helped people access mental health care.

• Civic Participation: Voter education and citizenship classes helped thousands become active voices in American democracy.

• Crisis Response: When Haiti was hit by disasters like the 2010 earthquake, HAUP led efforts to mobilize aid and support families connecting with relatives back home.

Each step proved the group's belief in real, on-the-ground change.

Evolution of Mission and Service Expansion

HAUP has always listened to its community and adjusted its efforts. As more Caribbean and African immigrants came to New York, HAUP opened its doors wider. What started as an organization by and for Haitian Americans soon grew to support all immigrants facing the same struggles.

• Expanded Services: New programs now offer help with housing, college prep, and legal aid.

• Multilingual Staff: HAUP staffs advocates who speak Creole, French, English, and Spanish so everyone feels heard.

• Partnerships: The group built partnerships with schools, hospitals, and local agencies to connect families with more resources.

• Focus on Inclusion: The mission now supports any immigrant household needing help building their future in the U.S.

Today, HAUP stands as a pillar in Brooklyn and beyond, trusted not just by Haitian Americans but by anyone seeking opportunity, support, and a brighter tomorrow. The story of HAUP is still being written, shaped by every person who walks through its doors.

Impact on Economic Mobility and Community Empowerment

HAUP’s legacy has always been about lifting people up—helping families earn a better living, raising strong voices, and giving neighbors a space to connect, belong, and celebrate. Since the start, HAUP has created new chances for immigrant families not just to survive, but to thrive. The push for upward mobility, active citizenship, and cultural pride has shaped strong roots that keep growing each year.

Workforce Development and Career Advancement

A steady job and the chance to move up are often the first big steps for many immigrant families. HAUP has made this possible through hands-on programs that lead to real jobs and steady paychecks.

Some concrete ways HAUP helps include:

• Job Training Workshops: Classes teach practical job skills, from computer basics to customer service, health care, or construction.

• Job Placement Services: Trained staff help match clients with local employers and provide support with interviews and applications.

• High School Equivalency and Adult Literacy: Programs for GED prep and language classes open more doors, especially for recent arrivals.

• Resume and Interview Coaching: One-on-one help gives community members the confidence to present their best selves.

• College and Vocational Guidance: HAUP guides young adults and parents as they explore career paths, apply to schools, and secure financial aid.

Clients who started with little English or no U.S. work history now hold steady jobs, many in health care, education, government, and small business. Advancing step by step, they grow into leaders at work, in church, and throughout their neighborhoods.

Civic Engagement and Advocacy Successes

Community power starts when everyone has a say and can step forward. HAUP knows that legal rights and a voice in public life are just as important as jobs or a place to live.

Here’s how HAUP has driven change for all:

• Voter Registration Drives: Thousands of new citizens have learned their voting rights, become voters, and shown up at the polls.

• Citizenship Preparation Classes: Regular courses help green card holders study U.S. history, pass exams, and gain full civic rights.

• Leadership Trainings: HAUP hosts workshops that turn passionate people into school board members, block leaders, and advocacy champions.

• Policy Advocacy: Staff and volunteers speak for fair laws—pushing for immigrant protections, family reunification, and equal treatment in schools and workplaces.

• Public Information Forums: These events break down legal changes, city services, or current events for everyone—making sure nobody is left out.

These efforts help turn fear or confusion into action. Every step forward brings more trust, unity, and hope in the system.

Preserving and Promoting Haitian Culture

Culture is the heartbeat of every strong community. HAUP makes sure the next generation knows where they come from and can celebrate deeply held traditions.

Community activities over the years for example the annual Haitian Festival at Eisenhower Park: A high-energy festival with music, dance, food, and art, open to all ages and backgrounds.

This kind of  celebration build unity. They remind everyone, old and young, that Haitian heritage isn’t only in the past—it’s alive and thriving, a source of pride and connection for all.

Legacy50 Campaign: Vision and Goals for the Future

The Legacy50 Campaign is a promise to keep hope alive for generations to come. This $5 million endowment campaign is about more than marking 50 years: it’s about giving HAUP the tools to continue building strong, caring, and thriving immigrant communities. With so many families still facing new hurdles, the time to act is now. Here’s what drives Legacy50 and where this ambitious investment will lead.

Why the Legacy50 Campaign Matters Now

Every new wave of immigrants faces challenges: new languages, new laws, and the daily grind of finding work and a sense of belonging. The Legacy50 Campaign comes at a moment when families need stable support more than ever. Without new resources, programs could fade and future generations might not get the same helping hand that past families received.

This campaign answers the call for:

• Long-term stability: It will fund HAUP’s core services year after year, no matter what changes happen around us.

• A safety net: Many communities struggle with sudden crises like health emergencies or changes in immigration policy. Legacy50 means HAUP can adapt and respond right away.

• Passing the torch: We honor our history not just by remembering it, but by making sure others get their own chance to create a strong future.

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Building this endowment is about refusing to leave the next generation behind. It creates a solid foundation to support Haitian and immigrant families for years to come.

Where the Endowment Will Go: Programs and Priorities

Every dollar raised by Legacy50 has a job to do. The endowment goes to the programs that help families live healthy, successful lives. Here’s how the money works for the community:

• Education: Expanding afterschool programs, scholarships, and English language classes to help children and adults learn and lead.

• Health: Funding for prevention workshops, health fairs, and direct help to connect families with doctors and counselors.

• Legal Support: Making sure immigrants have affordable help with citizenship, visas, and staying safe in new policies.

• Youth Leadership: Training and mentoring for teens and young adults so they can find their voices and stand up for their communities.

• Community Outreach: Programs and staff who visit local neighborhoods, help at-risk families, and connect people with the resources they need.

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With these priorities, HAUP’s impact goes far beyond its walls. The Legacy50 endowment sets a path for stronger, safer, and smarter communities.

How to Support: Joining the Legacy50 Movement

The Legacy50 Campaign isn’t just about honoring history—it’s about action. This campaign thrives on support from real people and partners who care. Whether you want to help with a donation, offer your time and talents, or spread the message, every step you take has power. Here’s your guide to joining the movement and making a lasting difference.

Ways to Give: Donations and Legacy Gifts

Your support keeps the roots of HAUP’s work strong, year after year. Giving is more than a transaction—it’s an investment in safe neighborhoods, stronger families, and lasting hope. There are many ways to give, no matter your budget or plans.

• One-time Donations: Even a single gift helps fund programs that change lives. Use the HAUP website or mail a check to make your support count right away.

• Monthly Giving: Set up an automatic monthly donation. Monthly gifts make it easier to budget your support and help HAUP plan for the future.

• Major Gifts: Larger donations create direct impact by funding scholarships, programs, or community events.

• Planned Giving: Want to support HAUP’s mission for years to come? Consider leaving a gift in your will or making HAUP a beneficiary of your life insurance or retirement account. These legacy gifts can help future generations long after you’re gone.

• Workplace Giving & Matching Gifts: Some employers will match your donation or allow payroll deductions. Double the impact by checking with your workplace.

Every dollar, big or small, helps build a wall of support for families seeking a better tomorrow.

Volunteering, Sponsorships, and Organizational Partnerships

HAUP’s work grows stronger with helping hands and new connections. Whether you have time, talent, or a network of partners, your involvement can spark change.

• Volunteer Your Time: Offer your skills in mentoring, event planning, afterschool support, or translation. Volunteers help HAUP do more, reaching people who need it most.

• Sponsorships: Local businesses and professionals can sponsor events, youth programs, festivals, or health fairs. Sponsorship gives your brand a chance to connect with the community in a real way.

• Partner Organizations: Schools, churches, and other nonprofits can work side by side with HAUP. Together, you can co-host events, share resources, or offer new workshops for youth, parents, or elders.

• Professional Services: Lawyers, accountants, educators, health experts, and tech professionals can donate their services.

Choose how you want to get involved. The success of Legacy50 depends on teamwork, open doors, and people who care.

Spreading the Word: Community Advocacy

Telling HAUP’s story is just as important as giving time or money. When you share, you help others see the purpose and results up close.

Here’s how you can use your voice:

• Social Media Engagement: Post, share, and comment on HAUP updates using the hashtag #Legacy50. Invite friends and family to follow HAUP’s accounts and share impact stories.

• Host Small Gatherings: Organize a coffee meet-up or a virtual hangout to introduce your circle to HAUP’s work. A personal story about why you support the campaign can inspire others to act.

• Community Organizing: Be a cheerleader for HAUP during local events. Ask your school, workplace, or church to feature Legacy50 in newsletters or bulletin boards.

• Share Impact Stories: Tell others about the changes you’ve seen because of HAUP—whether it’s someone finding a job, a student getting tutoring, or families getting legal help.

• Advocate with Local Leaders: Write a quick note or make a call to community officials in support of HAUP’s mission. When leaders see that people care, they’re more likely to step up, too.

Small actions, when multiplied, create a wave of support that carries the Legacy50 movement forward. Take a step today. Your voice can help HAUP carry its mission into the next fifty years.

Meet the Team Who Give Their All

Behind every successful organization, you’ll find a passionate team working hard each day—often behind the scenes, rarely seeking the spotlight. At HAUP, the heartbeat of our mission is the people who show up, rain or shine, to push our work forward. They know the challenges immigrant families face because they live them, and they put that knowledge to work with grit, kindness, and a deep sense of purpose.

These are the voices and hands building opportunities, keeping programs running, and guiding the community toward hope. Here’s a glimpse at some of the dedicated people who make HAUP a true champion for Haitian Americans and immigrant families across New York.

Leadership Anchored in Community

Elsie St Louis, CEO & Executive Director

Elsie leads HAUP with heart and experience. She started as a volunteer, helping families find jobs and strength during tough times. Now as CEO and Executive Director, Elsie is the driving force behind the group’s growth and vision. She listens to the community, finds new ways to serve, and always puts families first. Elsie’s story is a reminder that real leadership starts with care and commitment.

Vanessa Jean Paul, ChairpersonAs board chair, Vanessa brings a blend of strategic thinking and local insight. She helps guide big decisions, connects with partners, and keeps the group focused on long-term goals.

Ducarmel Delorme, Vice PresidentDucarmel is the steady hand next to the chairperson, making sure that HAUP’s priorities stay on track and that every project delivers real value to the community.

Trusted Professionals, Every Step of the Way

Dana Green, Billing and Financial ManagerDana keeps the wheels turning behind the

curtain. She handles budgeting, tracks donations, and ensures that funds go where they matter most. Her work is a safety net for HAUP’s programs.

Martine Nicolas, Executive AssistantMartine brings order and energy to the office every day. She manages schedules, supports the team, and acts as the go-to person for almost anything the staff needs.

Jory Charles, ESQ, Immigration AttorneyFor families facing tough questions about visas or citizenship, Jory is the calm and knowledgeable guide. With a deep understanding of immigration law, he fights for every client’s right to stay, work, and thrive.

Roldy Auguste, Senior Immigration SpecialistRoldy supports clients through the maze of paperwork and rules. With patience and skill, he helps turn stress into relief, making sure every detail is right.

Champions of Health, Outreach, and Community

Herold Dasque, Community LiaisonHerold is the bridge between HAUP and the people it serves. He connects with local groups, helps design events, and brings the community’s voice to the table.

Johanne Jacques, Senior Health Service ManagerJohanne leads health initiatives with compassion. From wellness workshops to direct services, she helps families access the care and knowledge they need to stay healthy and safe.

Each team member could choose an easier path. Instead, they show up with determination, often working late so that another family gets help, a student gets support, or a neighbor feels less alone. They celebrate every small win and never forget the bigger picture—a future where every immigrant has a fair shot.

Key strengths the HAUP team brings:

• Deep roots in the Haitian American and broader immigrant community

• A blend of professional expertise and lived experience

• Dedication to clear, honest communication with families

• An open-door policy—no problem is too small or story too complicated

The work isn’t easy, but the team’s spirit shapes HAUP’s story. With every program launched and every problem solved, the HAUP staff proves how much can be done when real people care enough to give their all.

Honoring HAUP’s 50-year legacy means building on real progress and defending the promise of community care for the next generation. The Legacy50 Campaign isn’t just a milestone—it gives each of us a chance to power up opportunity for immigrant families right now. Your support today lays steady ground for the future, so that families can keep chasing their dreams and find support when they need it most.

Let’s keep this story growing. Share, give, or volunteer—every action strengthens the roots of hope. Thank you for being part of a community that stands up, looks ahead, and believes in the power of together.