ABOUT
FOSTERING COLLECTIVE GROWTH AND CULTURAL BELONGING
Uplifting Haitian and Afro-Caribbean voices while building bridges of understanding across Long Island
OUR HISTORY
Founded in 1995 by a group of Haitians from all walks of life, HAFALI has spent over 30 years working to educate, empower, and advocate for families across Long Island. What began as a grassroots effort rooted in Haitian pride has blossomed into a transformative movement for wellness, justice, and belonging.
Thirty years later, we pause to reflect, not only on how far we've come, but on who we’ve become. Through the stories, struggles, and triumphs of our community, we have grown into more than an organization; we are a living legacy of resilience and care.
OUR MISSION
HAFALI exists to educate minds, empower spirits, and advocate for brighter futures by providing culturally grounded services that uplift Haitian and Afro-Caribbean communities, bridge generations, and foster personal and collective transformation.
We help individuals and families navigate life’s challenges with purpose, resilience, and hope.
"Still the Bridge. Still the Beacon. Now the Chrysalis."
THE CHRYSALIS PROJECT
PEOPLE
DEDICATION • EXPERTISE • PASSION
HAFALI's ongoing commitment to empowering, educating, and advocating for the Haitian community is made possible through the dedication and generosity of its members. These community members consistently offer their time, talents, and resources to support the organization's mission.
Whether through volunteering, sharing their expertise, or making financial contributions, these individuals play a vital role in sustaining HAFALI's efforts. Their relentless support ensures that HAFALI can continue providing crucial services, building community connections, and promoting social justice for Haitian families. The collective contributions of these members strengthen the foundation's ability to make a lasting impact and foster a thriving, resilient Haitian community.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
HAFALI's Board of Directors is made up of five dedicated voting members who guide the organization's mission, strategy, and financial oversight. Their leadership ensures we remain rooted in community values while building a future of equity, wellness, and belonging.
YANICK CHERY FREDREIC
CHAIRPERSON
DOMINIQUE DELMA, MD
SECRETARY
NAME
TREASURER
REV. MOISE AIME
CO-FOUNDER & ADVISOR
MARTHE DESDUNE, ESQ
ADVISOR
STAFF
BILLY JACOTIN
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Billy Jacotin has led HAFALI INC since September 2025, guiding the organization through a renewed era of growth rooted in the principles of the Social and Solidarity Economy. With a Bachelor’s in Social Work and a Master’s in Social and Solidarity Economy, Billy brings strong expertise in community development, cooperative models, and third-sector leadership.
His commitment to service began in 2009–2010, when he launched an initiative supporting vulnerable communities in Haiti. This early work shaped his mission-driven approach and deep understanding of grassroots engagement.
Today, Billy leads HAFALI INC with a focus on empowerment, innovation, and community-centered solutions—positioning the organization as one of the fastest-growing Caribbean American institutions on Long Island.
MARYSE EMMANUEL-GARCY, LMSW
CO-FOUNDER, CHIEF EDUCATOR FOR MISSION ADVANCEMENT & CHAPTER GROWTH
Maryse never set out to become the voice of the Haitian community on Long Island; she simply followed the path that destiny placed before her. Since 1995, HAFALI has served as a guiding light for individuals navigating the acculturation journey, and Maryse has been a steady, compassionate presence throughout that mission.
With the heart of a mentor and the grounding of a Licensed Social Worker, she has supported countless individuals in building resilience, healing from adversity, and charting their own path forward. Her leadership reflects the essence of the Chrysalis Project, the understanding that growth is a sacred process, and that every person carries the potential to unfold, rise, and take flight.
Maryse’s published works further amplify her commitment to healing and community wisdom. Our Mental Health Matters sparks intergenerational conversations about wellness, while MERCI shares the gratitude and life lessons that have shaped her journey.
Now entering a season of semi-retirement, Maryse does so with humility and joy. She remains deeply proud of the younger leaders emerging within HAFALI, leaders she has mentored, nurtured, and now trusts to carry the mission forward. Passing the baton is not an ending for her, but a fulfillment of purpose. She continues to serve as a guide, a storyteller, and a steady hand of wisdom while embracing a life filled with meaning, exploration, and well-earned freedom.
ROSEMARY POWELL-ELLIS
STRATEGIC FUNDING PATHWAYS ARCHITECT
Rosemary Powell is the owner of Mother’s Purest Inc., Comfort Circle MFT, and Conscious Heights Integrative Wellness. A South Jamaica, Queens native raised by Jamaican immigrant parents, she brings lived experience, resilience, and a strong commitment to community care.
She entered full private practice in 2020 during the COVID-19 crisis, offering essential mental health support when families needed it most. With over eight years in the nonprofit sector—spanning program development, budgeting, therapy, and community programming—she has a solid foundation in mission-driven work.
As HAFALI’s new Strategic Funding Pathways Architect, Rosemary will design long-term funding strategies that support the organization’s mission and growing impact. She remains guided by her motto of connecting with others while building community and continues to pursue her vision for Conscious Heights Integrative Wellness.
MAGALY POLO, LMSW
CHIEF COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
Magaly has been an integral part of HAFALI Inc. since 2002, serving as a community organizer, board member, social worker, and grant writer. As a Licensed Social Worker, she brings deep insight into the needs of the Haitian and Afro-Caribbean community, guiding her work with compassion and expertise.
In her role as Chief Communications Officer, Magaly oversees HAFALI MEDIA, our creative production studio dedicated to the recording and production of all HAFALI Inc. content. She ensures that the organization’s public image, communications, and storytelling authentically reflect our mission, values, and long-term vision for community transformation. Her decades-long dedication continues to uplift, empower, and inspire the communities we serve.
JACQUES PROVINCE
Retired RN
BOOKKEEPER
Jacques has been an invaluable member of our team since he joined us in 2010. His commitment is evident through his participation in our mission trip to Haiti, showcasing his dedication to our cause. Since 2013, he has taken on the role of bookkeeper, our financial records are meticulously maintained and contributing to our overall success. We're grateful for his work and unwavering support.
