Our Founders
Raoul Charles, born 1931 in Cameau Cabaret Haiti was the second oldest out of 7 kids. Losing his father at a young age, he shouldered a greater responsibility for his younger siblings. Wanting a better life for himself and loves ones he came to the United States in the late 60’s. He worked at the WarWick Hotel and as a part-time cab driver in the evenings while also attending English classes. In the 1980s he later became a successful businessman in realty. After his first wife of 28 years passed away of cancer, he later re-married Emila B. Charles.
Emila Charles, a retired nurse for the state of New York was born 1950 in Haiti. Being the only daughter out of five kids, she too suffered an early loss with the passing of her mother, leaving the responsibility to help raise her brothers a reality in the already tough life of Haiti. With the knowledge that education is the key to progress, Emila supported herself through nursing school. Her desire to assist others is derived from her family and life experiences.
Both spiritually motivated, Raoul and Emila Charles wanted to assist Haiti by giving back to the community of Cameau Cabaret. Areas of Cameau Cabaret has schools miles apart. With neglected, dangerous roads and many without means of transportation, the opportunity for a child to obtain an education became less a reality. In 2006, they founded the Emmanuel Center of Cameau.
The center is comprised of a School, Church, and guest quarters for missionaries.
The Emmanuel Center serves as a building block for the community by providing a spiritual and educational foundation.
“Great opportunities to help others seldom come, but small ones surround us every day.” ~ Sally Koch
