About the INDMM

Our story

In 2001, the adventure began with 24 classes and more, involving the citizens of Cap-Haïtien, before evolving into the school and community center that we know today. The INDMM has been working for almost 20 years, consistently improving the quality of life for many children.

It all started in March 1997 with the establishment of the "Community of Catholic Laity of Haiti" (CLCH) by Mrs. Claudette N. Leconte, whose mission is to support the poorest communities, particularly children. Thus, the INDMM was founded under the inspiration of its founder to provide education to the most disadvantaged children whose families cannot afford school fees. Community members are committed to living the gospel on a daily basis and working within the Institute for the well-being of the children.

The adventure began in 2001 with a class of 24 children opened on the outskirts of the Shada slum in Cap-Haitien. In 2007, a benefactor recognized the positive potential of such a program and decided to strengthen support for the organization by providing a large plot of land in Vaudreuil, on the outskirts of Cap-Haitien, which is now the residence of the INDMM. The American Foundation "Food for the Poor" financed the construction of our school and the living quarters for the orphans and their teachers. The foundation continues to support the INDMM primarily with food and hygiene for the children.

In 2007, due to the dire situation of some children, Mrs. N. Leconte decided to build an orphanage for the most impoverished. The school not only offers free education to orphans and underprivileged children but also provides them with a home, daily meals, healthcare, and quality supervision.

However, at the end of the 9th year of primary school or upon reaching adulthood, some children from the school or the orphanage still face significant vulnerability. Given the country's high unemployment rate and a very young population (with over 53% of the population under 25 [1]), education and vocational integration are major challenges.

Our Mission

Education: INDMM provides a nurturing environment that fosters the creative, intellectual, and personal development of our students.
Living conditions: We strive to improve health, education, and infrastructure standards to ensure children can learn and develop in optimal conditions.
Accountability: We empower young people to be globally-minded, self-reliant, and responsible individuals. We guide them in finding their path, entering the workforce, and becoming committed citizens dedicated to their country's development.

How we work

Our values

Our values and commitments are rooted in strong convictions, which guide us in achieving our goals. In managing the institution, we adhere to the following principles:

Qualified management: We provide regular training to teachers and supervisors, enhancing their skills in education and child support. Within our means, we strive to employ qualified personnel.

Transparency: INDMM has a well-structured organization where each individual has a defined role. We manage donations carefully and responsibly, being accountable to our partners.

Autonomous management: We encourage micro-programs that contribute to self-sufficiency and have long-lasting effects.

Social and sustainable development: We leverage local and international resources in the fields of health, education, and technology to promote social integration and sustainable development.

Global and local cooperation: INDMM actively engages with local and global partners, including charities, foundations, companies, governmental institutions, and educational organizations. By fostering partnerships, we contribute to Haiti's overall development and combat poverty.

By upholding these principles, INDMM is dedicated to providing a brighter future for the children we serve, empowering them to overcome adversity and thrive in their communities.

Our team

The school and orphanage have a dedicated team of staff members who provide support and care to the children. We employ about 25 teachers in the school and about 15 staff in the orphanage.

Berline Saintilma
Administration
One of the first 24 students of the school in 2001, Berline now works in the school administration after completing her training as an accountant. She also contributes as a tutor for students with learning difficulties at the school.
Cérémy Louis
Co-director
He is the educational director of the middle school (grades 7-9) and is responsible for overseeing and supervising all school activities. He also serves as a school inspector in northern Haiti for the Ministry of Education.
Michaële Alfred
Head of the kindergarten
She is a highly experienced certified early childhood educator. She is responsible for the teaching staff of the preschool, the organization of the kindergarten, and the learning program.

Want to learn more about our staff?

visit the team page

Partners

We solely rely on private donations and therefore greatly appreciate the support we receive from our donors, as it plays a vital role in sustaining and enhancing the lives of the children in Cap-Haitien.

Our partners, including individuals, corporations, and institutions, contribute both financial resources and valuable expertise, enabling us to address the most challenging issues we face.

Their generosity is instrumental in the smooth operation of our institution and in providing a secure environment for the children.