Stacy Librandi’s Journey from Volunteer to Founder of Haiti’s Largest Emergency Service

Stacy Librandi initially ventured into disaster relief in Haiti in 2010. Arriving at the Port-au-Prince airfield, she witnessed a scene that resembled a makeshift city. Thousands were gathered, living in tents, amidst piles of emergency supplies like food and medical aid. This was the aftermath of a magnitude 7 earthquake. Although untrained, Librandi joined other volunteers in an effort driven by urgency. Her intent was to stay briefly; instead, she remained, ultimately founding HERO, the Humanitarian Emergency Response Organization, now Haiti’s leading emergency medical service.

Reflecting on her path, Librandi told 60 Minutes, “I never saw my life going this way.” Her journey took root in her unexpected decision to stay longer, reshaping her destiny.

Librandi’s Background

Born in San Diego, CA, Stacy Librandi was adopted and led an unconventional life. Leaving school between the 7th and 9th grades, she lived nomadically, traversing the country on freight trains. At 19, she settled in the Bronx with a husband and three children. Struggles ensued, culminating in 2009 when a fire devastated her apartment. Facing personal setbacks, Librandi’s journey to Haiti began as she sought to find purpose amidst adversity.

Establishing HERO

Upon arriving in Haiti, Librandi was struck by the disorganized aid efforts. She took initiative, distributing supplies and organizing lines for food distribution. Her methods quickly gained traction. The seeds of HERO were sown, rooted in her belief that action was possible.

By 2012, HERO received its first ambulance, expanding significantly and collaborating with insurance companies and local institutions. The team adapted existing international training, creating a system where affordable membership funded ambulance services.

Challenges in an Unstable Haiti

As Haiti faced heightened instability following President Jovenel Moïse’s assassination in 2021, HERO adapted. Criminal gangs threatened the country’s infrastructure. Despite these challenges, HERO expanded its operations, adding medevac helicopters and a security division, HALO Solutions Firm. This arm provides vital protection for personnel and clients.

Today, HERO employs around 120 staff and cooperates with organizations including the U.S. Embassy. Plans for a Level II Trauma Center are underway, aiming to enhance Haiti’s emergency response capabilities.

Stacy Librandi’s story is one of resilience and innovation. What began as a volunteer’s gut decision evolved into the bedrock of Haiti’s emergency medical services.