ABOUT US
OUR STORY
AAME was founded in 2016 by Gary Diogene, who recognized the challenges many underprivileged children face in accessing a basic education. He believed that a family’s financial circumstances should not determine whether a child has the opportunity to learn. That belief became the foundation of AAME.
In the early years, AAME focused on helping children attend school by providing tuition assistance and educational support in communities throughout Haiti, including St. Marc, Fontamara, Léogâne, Croix-des-Bouquets, Gros Morne, and Marchand Dessalines. Over time, AAME’s educational initiatives expanded and the organization’s vision grew.
FROM SUPPORTING STUDENTS TO BUILDING A SCHOOL
For several years, AAME worked with schools throughout Haiti to help families afford their children’s education. That work made an important difference, but we wanted to do more. We wanted to create an educational environment where AAME could have a more direct role in the quality of education, learning environment, teachers, technology, student support, and overall experience children received. That vision led to AAME Academy in Petit-Goâve, Haiti. AAME Academy officially opened its doors in December 2022, serving primary and secondary school students.
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RESPONDING WHEN COMMUNITIES NEED US
Education has always been at the center of our mission, but our service has never stopped there. Throughout our history, AAME has stepped forward when families and communities faced difficult circumstances. Following hurricanes, earthquakes, and other hardships in Haiti, AAME has provided emergency assistance to families in need. Following the 2021 earthquake, AAME also supported families and helped small businesses work toward restarting their operations.
BRINGING OUR MISSION HOME
AAME recognized that many young people in underserved communities could benefit from practical skills, mentorship, employment preparation, and exposure to entrepreneurship. That realization led AAME into workforce development and skilled-trade training.
Participants learn more than how to operate equipment or complete a project. They learn workplace safety, responsibility, teamwork, communication, customer service, estimating, entrepreneurship, and project management.
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OUR MISSION
OUR VISION
Education
Education is one of the most powerful tools for creating lasting change.
Opportunity
Everyone deserves the chance to develop their abilities and pursue a better future.
Empowerment
We strive to give people the knowledge, skills, resources, and confidence to move forward independently.
Responsibility
We encourage accountability, discipline, hard work, and respect.
Community
Lasting change happens when individuals, families, businesses, volunteers, and organizations work together.
Integrity
We are committed to serving responsibly and treating people with dignity and respect.
2015
The Beginning — AAME begins with a mission to help underserved children gain access to education.
2016–2018
Expanding Educational Support — AAME develops partnerships and expands educational assistance in Haiti.
2018–2021
Growing Community Impact — Educational initiatives, community outreach, school supplies, fundraising, and family assistance continue.
2021
Responding to Disaster — AAME responds after the Haiti earthquake with emergency assistance.
2022
AAME Academy Opens — AAME Academy opens in Petit-Goâve, giving AAME a direct role in the learning environment.
2023–2025
Strengthening Programs — AAME continues developing AAME Academy and community partnerships.
2025–2026
Workforce Development — AAME expands New Jersey hands-on trade and workforce-readiness programming.
2026
Celebrating 10 Years — AAME celebrates a decade of education, service, community, and opportunity.
WHERE WE ARE GOING