Our story
In the heart of Léogâne, Haiti, our organization stands as a nest for growth, hope, and opportunity. We are committed to empowering individuals and strengthening families through educational advancement, community development, and environmental safety initiatives.
We believe that when a community is given the tools to learn, the support to grow, and the protection to thrive, lasting transformation becomes possible. By investing in education, promoting sustainable development, and fostering environmental responsibility, we are building a stronger, safer, and more resilient future for the people of Léogâne.
Together, we are planting seeds of opportunity — and nurturing a generation prepared to lead, serve, and succeed.
NEGES: Nest for Educational Growth and Environmental Safety
Founded in February 1997, NEGES was established by two dedicated Haitian-American educators based in Brooklyn, New York: Yoleine Gateau-Esposito, a retired guidance counselor, and Dr. James E. Philemy, a retired school principal from Queens.
For more than two decades prior to formally launching the organization, the founders consistently traveled to their native Haiti, providing financial assistance and programmatic support to underserved communities. During one of these visits, they reflected on a simple yet transformative question:
“Why can’t we do in Haiti what we do for children here in Brooklyn?”
From that moment, the seed of NEGES was planted — an idea rooted in the belief that Haitian children deserve the same opportunities for education, guidance, and community support as children anywhere else. That vision grew into the NEGES Foundation, a community-based nonprofit organization committed to youth empowerment and environmental stewardship.
As Ms. Gateau-Esposito explains:
“We see protecting the environment as integral to education. They are not separate issues. The best way to develop environmental consciousness is to begin teaching children at a young age.”
Since its founding, NEGES has served as a vital Haitian-American–led 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering educational growth, strengthening communities, and promoting environmental safety.
Following the devastating 2010 earthquake in Haiti, NEGES expanded its outreach efforts to support internally displaced families in Dampus, a rural area near Léogâne that consisted of three encampments. During this critical period, the organization provided educational programming, community support, and environmental awareness initiatives to families rebuilding their lives.
Today, NEGES continues its work in Léogâne, Haiti, partnering with local residents to build sustainable programs that nurture resilience, opportunity, and long-term community development.
About neges foundation
Neges Foundation is a new personal organization rooted in Dampus, Leogane, driven by a passion for community betterment. Our mission is to actively showcase the impactful work we do, foster strong brand awareness, and keep our community informed through our latest news and inspiring blog posts. We believe in transparency and collaboration as we strive to achieve our goals.