Stacy Librandi’s Journey: From Volunteer to Leading Emergency Services in Haiti

Stacy Librandi arrived in Haiti in 2010 with little experience in disaster relief. She stepped onto the airfield of Port-au-Prince amidst thousands struggling with the aftermath of a magnitude 7 earthquake. Despite being young and untrained, she was determined to help. Bringing only a small backpack and camping supplies, she intended a short stay but ended up staying longer due to the pressing needs.

More than a decade later, Librandi runs the Humanitarian Emergency Response Organization (HERO), Haiti’s most significant emergency medical ambulance and medevac service. Reflecting on her journey, she shared with 60 Minutes, “I never saw my life going this way. I just came down thinking I am going to give this a complete shot. And that was when I was born in a lot of ways.” Her efforts were recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard for vital support after the 2021 earthquake in southern Haiti.

Before founding HERO, Librandi’s life took an unconventional path. Born in San Diego and adopted as a baby, she lived as a “nomad,” quitting school early to travel across the U.S. by freight train. She settled in the Bronx, married at 19, and had three children. Her attempts at building a life and a photography business faced challenges, exacerbated when a fire left her living out of her car in 2009.

The earthquake struck Haiti on January 12, 2010, prompting Librandi to take a leap and volunteer. She facilitated aid distribution, challenging skepticism about possible mobbing by organizing the local camp effectively. Her proactive methods saw success and replication.

As Librandi spent more time in Haiti, HERO grew to respond to local needs. Despite living with limited resources, Librandi’s resolve earned connections with pivotal organizations like the United Nations World Food Program. She envisioned ambulances and developed HERO through a sustainable model. The 911 membership program offered widespread access to emergency services for a yearly fee, gaining trust in a region unfamiliar with reliable aid.

By 2012, with their first donated ambulance, HERO expanded its operations. Strategic partnerships with regional entities underscored its role in emergency response, serving both paying members and nonmembers. Librandi’s process, bolstered by the team’s dedication, tapped into the country’s critical needs.

In 2021, Haiti faced turmoil as armed gangs escalated violence after President Jovenel Moïse’s assassination. HERO adapted to these challenges, offering critical assistance through newly acquired helicopter services and security measures. A security firm, HALO Solutions, was added to protect staff and expand operations within Haiti.

Today, HERO is integral to Haiti’s crisis relief efforts, with collaboration from a robust team of local and international professionals. Its scope includes emergency medical services, security, and future plans for a trauma center. HERO’s potential is recognized globally, engaging with nations eager to replicate its success.