PROJECTS
Cherie Miot Abbanat’s commitment to community service has shaped her work both in Fond des Blancs, Haiti, and at MIT’s Department of Urban Studies and Planning. In Fond des Blancs, Cherie led transformative initiatives as the Executive Director of Haiti Projects, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving quality of life and economic stability for local women and families. Through projects like the Artisanat Cooperative and menstrual health initiatives, she prioritized sustainable solutions that empowered individuals to uplift themselves and their communities. Her leadership was rooted in a belief that community-led efforts and capacity-building could break cycles of poverty, providing residents with the skills, resources, and confidence to create lasting change. This philosophy extended beyond economic empowerment to address educational and health-related needs, with programs such as the all-girls soccer initiative and digital literacy courses that fostered growth and resilience.
Access to Technology
In addition to traditional learning resources, the library is equipped with computers and internet access, making it a rare digital resource in the community. Training programs in basic computer skills and digital literacy introduce both youth and adults to essential technology, bridging the digital divide in Fond des Blancs. This access enables students to expand their studies, job-seekers to explore new employment opportunities, and community members to stay connected to broader global resources. By supporting literacy, technology skills, and community engagement, the Haiti Projects Library is a transformative space that empowers individuals and strengthens the community as a whole.
