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OUR STORY
OUR STORY
The Geffrard Foundation was founded in 2016 by Hymler “Bobby” Geffrard following a visit to Haiti that changed the direction of his work and inspired a new commitment to helping families in need.
In May 2016, while visiting his aging father in Haiti, Hymler gave his father’s assistant, Nahomie, a ride home after a heavy rain. Six years after the devastating 2010 earthquake, Nahomie was still living under a tent. The rain had engulfed her makeshift home, forcing her to spend the night mopping water and wringing out her clothes by hand
Her situation was not unique. Hymler witnessed and heard the cries for help from women who were spending entire nights trying to keep rainwater out of their homes. He decided to take action by initiating a house-building project to help displaced and under-resourced women with children throughout Haiti.
The Foundation’s first official project was to build Nahomie a home in Leogane, Haiti. Within a year, Nahomie became a proud homeowner. Her story became the beginning of the Geffrard Foundation and its commitment to helping families achieve greater stability, independence, and hope.
A HISTORY OF SERVICE
A HISTORY OF SERVICE
The Foundation's work builds on Hymler's many years of service to his community.
Since 1996, Hymler has served as a volunteer firefighter in Princeton, New Jersey. He has also served as a member of the Apollo Lodge in Hightstown, New Jersey, a volunteer Police Service agent in New York and New Jersey, and a Chaplain 2nd Lieutenant with the International Alliance of Chaplains & Law Enforcement Organization.
His commitment to service has also taken him to Haiti, where he has supported humanitarian relief, education, renewable energy, community development, disaster response, and other initiatives designed to improve the lives of individuals and families.
Following the devastating 2010 earthquake in Haiti, Hymler organized relief efforts in the United States, provided financial assistance, and collected and shipped medical and educational supplies to communities where health centers, schools, bridges, and other essential infrastructure had been damaged.
He also worked with organizations including Terre des Hommes, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the Danish Red Cross, and the Spanish Red Cross to support displaced families, children, and communities in need.
From education and literacy to renewable energy, clean water, cycling, and community development, these experiences helped shape the Foundation's belief that meaningful change is possible when people come together to help one another.
MOVING FORWARD
MOVING FORWARD
Today, the Geffrard Foundation continues the work that began with one family and one home.
As a family-led organization, Hymler, Nathalie, and Christine work together to create opportunities for under-resourced individuals and families, strengthen family bonds, and improve quality of life.
The Foundation places particular emphasis on helping single mothers achieve stability and independence. We believe that a safe home can provide the foundation for a stronger future and that, whenever possible, mothers should have the opportunity to secure a home and title deed in their own name.
Our story began with a home, but it continues through every person, family, and community we have the opportunity to serve.
OUR MISSION
OUR MISSION
The mission of the Geffrard Foundation is to bring faith, inspiration, encouragement, hope, togetherness, and second chances to individuals and families in under-resourced communities.
We create opportunities for people in need, strengthen family bonds, and work to improve quality of life through housing, education, humanitarian assistance, community development, and partnerships.
We believe that everyone deserves an opportunity to regain their footing, build self-esteem, and become more independent.
OUR VALUES
OUR VALUES
Compassion
Compassion
We believe in helping people with care and dignity.
We recognize the challenges people face and strive to respond with understanding, respect, and genuine concern for the individuals and communities we serve.
Empowerment
Empowerment
We believe in creating opportunities for independence.
Our goal is not simply to provide assistance, but to help people regain their footing, build self-esteem, and become more independent.
Togetherness
Togetherness
We believe we can accomplish more when we work together.
Families, volunteers, donors, churches, organizations, businesses, and community members all have a role to play in creating stronger families and communities.
Hope
Hope
We believe everyone deserves a second chance.
Difficult circumstances do not have to define a person's future. Through encouragement, opportunity, and support, we want to help people move forward with renewed hope.
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