With her degree in Anthropology and Social Science, Jennifer leads the team with endless passion, energy, knowledge and innovation.  She has traveled to Haiti, twice with her church to support missions and once to meet her beautiful adopted daughter and inspiration.  She has served on the boards of other non-profits supporting Haiti and currently works as a Sales Manager at the convention center in downtown Detroit.  

Having co-led the board of a Haitian orphanage at which she has also volunteered, Joelle has a heart for the futures of children in Haiti and other developing countries.  Her work as Vice President of Missio Invest (an impact investor focused on agriculture projects in Sub-Saharan Africa) uniquely qualifies her to serve as Vice President of Avek Ou. 

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Mr. Jemmy Pierre serves as Executive Director of Foyer des Familles, as well as Board Liaison and translator for Avek Ou.  He attended National Lycee of Petionville for high school, and went on to earn a degree in Civil Engineering at the American University of Modern Sciences (UNASMOH) near the Haitian capital. Jemmy studied English at the Haitian American Institute and makes a living as a translator for English-speaking groups visiting Haiti.

Kelly works in the event industry and enjoys helping others see their vision through to the end. When she isn’t working, she enjoys family time with her husband and two small boys and her rescued dog, Annie.  Kelly is thankful for the opportunity to serve on the Avek Ou Board.  When Kelly was little her family sponsored children around the world. She is excited to work with children again and hopefully inspire others.

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Amanda earned her Sociology degree from a small Michigan liberal arts college, whose curriculum inspired an appreciation of different cultures.  She is a wife and mother to two amazing teenagers and works as Program Director at a marketing services company.  Her interest in Haiti was born out of love for her Haitian-born niece.​​​

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Amy is a lifelong lover of words and the past Editorial Director at Serendipity Media in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where she influenced print and online content for multiple audiences, polished messages, created a voice for others, and told the stories of a diverse range of people who make an impression on their communities.  She has long been aware of the world outside her window and the inequities and challenges affecting people around the globe. 

Beverly is a consultant with more than 25 years’ experience with events and project management.  Beverly earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Ferris State University and is a Certified Meeting Planner (CMP).  Recognition for her work includes Outstanding Volunteer and Leader (OVAL) award and Meeting Planner of the Year award.  In her free time, Beverly enjoys roller skating, practicing saxophone and spending time with her two sons.  

Kris is thrilled to join the Avek Ou team, and work on such a meaningful cause.  She's worked in the travel business for 25 years, and has been fortunate her career has enabled her to see the world and experience a variety of other cultures up close.  Her sister was adopted from India in 1980, so she understands the profound difference it makes in the lives of children to know they are valued and cared for, and given an opportunity to reach their full potential.