Rose Vixamar
- Dec 17, 2023
- 6 min read

Quarterly NEWSLETTER OCTOBER 2023

Dear Reader,

International Women of H.O.P.E. is committed to keeping you informed about our ongoing progress and achievements throughout the year. Stay connected because you won't want to miss what's coming next!

EXPANDING HORIZONS: IWOH Inaugurates New Office in Cap-Haitian

In a significant milestone, International Women of H.O.P.E. (IWOH) marked a momentous occasion on July 30, 2023, with the opening of our new office nestled in the heart of Cap-Haitian's bustling downtown district. This establishment represents a vital expansion of IWOH's presence in Haiti, solidifying our commitment to serving the local community. The new office paves the way for us to not only continue but also enhance our offerings in counseling, training, and economic investments for women in the region. It signifies a new chapter in our mission to empower and uplift women, and it wouldn't have been possible without the unwavering support of our dedicated supporters and allies. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who have stood by us on this exciting journey.

Building the H.O.P.E. Center: A Milestone for IWOH IWOH received a generous gift in 2022 a 1-acre parcel of land in the commune of Limonade, situated in the Northern Department of Haiti. This significant donation has brought IWOH closer to realizing one of its most significant goals: the establishment of the inaugural H.O.P.E. Center in Limonade, Haiti. The H.O.P.E. Center's vision is to create a secure and inclusive haven for women and girls, offering training, education, access to healthcare and wellness services, and opportunities for civic engagement. In pursuit of this vision, IWOH has embarked on a fundraising journey, with the aim of raising $700,000 for the construction of this vital facility. We extend an open invitation to all who share our passion for empowering women and girls to join us in building the H.O.P.E. CENTER legacy. Through the "Buy-A-Brick, Build H.O.P.E." campaign, you can contribute to this transformative project. Donors pledging $500 or more will have their names forever engraved in the donor's gallery at the facility. Your support is pivotal in making the H.O.P.E. Center a reality. To make a difference and be part of this inspiring endeavor, please visit intlwomenofhope.org and donate today. Together, we can build a brighter future for women and girls in northern area of Haiti.

Addressing the Surge in Domestic Violence: IWOH's Commitment in Georgia

Amid the global and local surge in domestic violence against women during and after the pandemic, the National Institute of Health (NIH) has reported concerning statistics. In the state of Georgia, International Women of H.O.P.E. (IWOH) has taken a steadfast stand to assist women in finding essential solutions, including social services referrals and shelter placement. At the forefront of this vital mission is Mrs. Tommie Marshall, our dedicated Resource Coordinator. Tommie has been tirelessly working with domestic violence survivors, offering them unwavering support and connecting them with crucial local resources in Atlanta. As we navigate these challenging times, IWOH remains resolute in its commitment to empowering and protecting women in Georgia and beyond.

AGRICULTURE PROJECT IWOH has partnered with a Brazilian company for an agriculture project called the PESCAR Project. The goal of this project is to combat pesticide contamination, promoting food security, and generating local income by Empowering low-income communities with hydroponic cultivation and cutting-edge technology. We are revolutionizing agriculture and embracing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Join us on this journey of positive change!

NEW AMBASSADOR

International Women of H.O.P.E. is delighted to introduce our newest ambassador, Ms. Chantale Vallès. Chantale, originally from Canada, has called Atlanta home for the past decade, where she has built a successful career as an IT professional. Her commitment to community service started at a young age and has remained a core part of her life. In 2016, Chantale partnered with IWOH in Haiti, where she facilitated a transformative Leadership workshop for women. The workshop gathered exceptional reviews and empowered countless women. During her second workshop, something remarkable occurred – the audience evolved into a co-ed forum, leaving a profound and lasting impact. Chantale's philosophy, "Knowledge without empathy is worthless," underscores her belief in the power of combining knowledge and empathy for meaningful change. As the new voice for IWOH, she aspires to connect and expand our organization's vision on a global scale. She seeks to harmonize the humanistic and technical aspects of our work, catalyzing a positive transformation that benefits all. We are thrilled to have Ms. Chantale Vallès as a vital part of our team and look forward to the positive impact she will undoubtedly bring to our mission.

Nourishing the Community: Food Drive Program

Over the years, Ebenezer Baptist Church and International Women of H.O.P.E. (IWOH) collaborated with the monthly Food Drive program to give fresh produce and essential food items to our community. Join us for food pick-up at the Lawrenceville SDA Church, located at 508 Grayson Hwy, Lawrenceville, GA 30046. Let's come together to make a positive impact on local families and ensure no one goes without a meal. Stay informed about program details and updates by following the Food Drive on our website/Facebook group.

AGRO TECH NORD PROJECT

We are thrilled to share an exciting collaboration that International Women of H.O.P.E. has embarked upon. Our organization is joining forces with two esteemed partners, "Lakay Pi Bon" and "Flore Aï-ti Enterprises," in a shared mission to advance agriculture in the Northern region of Haiti. This collaborative effort is being conducted in close partnership with Agronomist Wilfrid Sinclus. Our primary objective is twofold: first, to promote and spotlight the role of young women in agronomy, and second, to cultivate the Northern region of Haiti into a beacon of Precision Agriculture. We envision a future where this region serves as a reference point for precision agricultural practices, offering a host of benefits for poverty reduction, equitable activity, and environmental sustainability. We are Agents of HOPE! Agents of Change! We are dedicated to making a lasting and positive impact on the northern region of Haiti with our Agro Tech Nord group. Stay tuned for updates on our progress as we work tirelessly to turn this vision into a reality. We are grateful for your continued support and look forward to sharing more inspiring stories from the field.

6 Years of Giving: Help Spread Holiday Joy!

This year marks the 6th anniversary of Bags of H.O.P.E.'s heartfelt mission. For half a dozen years, we've been collecting donated purses filled with toiletry items and gifts, which we distribute to women shelters in metro Atlanta. These bags are more than just gifts; they're a reminder to these women that they haven't been forgotten. Right now, we need your help! We are currently collecting purses and toiletry items to fill these special gift bags for distribution during the upcoming Christmas holiday season. For more information on how you can contribute to this wonderful cause, please call Cassandre at 770-873-3229. Let's make this holiday season brighter together!

MEMBER HIGLIGHT

Meet Shella Leconte, a devoted member of IWOH for five years. She was introduced to our organization through her husband, Jean Guy Leconte, who volunteered at a health fair with the Haitian American Nurses Association (HANA) and met IWOH's President, Rosebrune Vixamar. Shella's heart was moved by the stories of challenges faced by women and girls supported by IWOH. This led her to become a confident and impactful member, investing in projects she believes in, particularly the "Bags of H.O.P.E." initiative. Shella's husband, a pastry chef, has been a generous contributor to our events. They now enjoy retirement in South Florida, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and giving.

4 Ways to Prepare your mind and body for the Fall Season

Stick to regular bedtimes and wake-up times-The “early to bed, early to rise” proverb isn’t just a saying. While it’s clear that how much you sleep is key to optimal health Create a new meal plan- The seasons affect us not only in how we react to the outside climate but also by the foods that are naturally available to us. Switch to more restorative forms of exercise - An active body is an important element of physical, emotional, and mental health. Nurture social connections - Research has shown that showed that “the lack of social connection is a greater detriment to health than obesity, smoking, and high blood pressure.” Conversely, strong social connection has myriad positive health benefits, including: increases longevity by up to 50%, strengthens your immune system, helps you recover from disease faster and reduced levels of anxiety and depression.

Let’s Stay Healthy this Season!

**REMINDERS**

Donate to IWOHs Bags of H.O.P.E. Donate a purse or toiletries to the purse drive to women in shelters for the holidays. Call Cassandre at 770-873-3229. Thanksgiving Drive in November We need your help distributing turkeys to families in need for the Thanksgiving season. Call Cassandre at 770-873-3229. Christmas Toys for Tots Help us get the toys out to the children this Christmas. Help us purchase gift supplies donate online at intlwomenofhope.org.