what we do
The Haitian grassroots coalition supports the immigrants journey to community integration by offering programs to assist with resources to overcome educational disruption, cultural, language barriers, social isolation, youth leadership mentoring, and mental health awareness.
Haitian Heritage, Culture, Arts and Tradition.
The Haitian Diaspora in Indiana is very connected to their heritage.
From Celebrating the Haitian Independence Day to Heritage Month in May to honoring our heroes of “Batay de Vetye” to exhibiting our Unique Cuisine and Traditions. The Haitian Immigrants are very proud of their history, heritage and resilience.
Mental Health Support
We provide culturally informed mental health resources to help individuals and families overcome challenges such as trauma, stress, and addiction. By breaking down stigma and increasing access to care, we aim to create healthier, more resilient communities.
Chronic Diseases
Many in our community face preventable or unmanaged chronic health conditions. Through education, outreach, and connections to healthcare services, we work to improve awareness, encourage early intervention, and support healthier lifestyles.
Community Integration
Adapting to a new country comes with many obstacles. We support immigrants, refugees, and minority groups by offering guidance, resources, and advocacy that promote social belonging, cultural understanding, and economic opportunity.
Youth Symposium August 2026 Marian University
HGCM Indiana partnership with the Education Innovation Center-Marian University. We had a wonderful event with several panelists like Kristin Clements-Effner, Professor Jeermal Sylvester, Mr. Vop Osili, Sabine Mathieu Agustin. Supported by the international center INTLCTR, the Indianapolis Foundation, the Mayor's Indianapolis Office of Latino Affairs, Hayes Law Office, Anthem, Caresource
Teen Mental Health First Aid Training
June 2026
HGCM in collaboration with the Chapel Rock Church of Indianapolis had its first teen mental health first aid training. With 17 new certified teens as mental health first aiders in Indiana. Thank you to the Health First Indiana-HFI program, 3TOutreach, instructor Ti'Gre McNear and Manuela Amagan.
HGCM at the African Diaspora community event
May, 31st 2026
May 31st the HGCM participated at the African Diaspora community event in Indianapolis. Ruth Estriplet, the Founder and President of HGCM represented Haiti with Jude Chery and Yverose Francois, co-founders of the Haitian Grassroots Coalition of Midwest HGCM Indiana.
Haitian Community Fair
May, 3rd 2026
HGCM celebrated the Haitian heritage, agriculture and Labor Day on Sunday May 3rd at the international District Community Center in Indianapolis. With special guests, the Mayor of Indiana, and others.
We had art Expo, traditional Haitian cuisine, and a panelists of professionals to discuss mental Health Well-Being, community integration and connections with other African Diaspora members.
Women Empowerment Conversation
March 2026
HGCM in collaboration with Zim Ladies Round Table, Fabioslim LLC, Health First Indiana-HFI program had a great panel conversation with several professional women in Indianapolis.
Mental Health First Aid training
Sat. Feb. 28th 2026
We provide culturally informed mental health resources to help individuals and families overcome challenges such as trauma, stress, and addiction. By breaking down stigma and increasing access to care, we aim to create healthier, more resilient communities.
Women Empowerment
The Haitian Grassroots Coalition of Midwest is dedicated to empowering Haitian women and community members through leadership development, financial literacy, and access to funding opportunities. As the immigrant population grows, HGCM works to address economic barriers and support women entrepreneurs in building sustainable, community-driven businesses. Our programs foster inclusion, mentorship, and civic engagement—helping individuals gain the skills and confidence to lead. Through this work, HGCM is cultivating a new generation of Haitian leaders who are driving equitable change and strengthening communities across Indianapolis and the Midwest.
In Marion County, Indiana Haitian immigrants are a unique and growing part of the population, with significant contributions to the state's economy and culture. From housing to healthcare to education, the quality of life of the immigrants in Indianapolis remains a huge challenge.