About our Ministry
Partnering in Faith to Transform Lives in Haiti and at Home
At Emmanuel Haiti, we believe in walking alongside Haitian leaders—equipping them with the tools, resources, and support they need to bring lasting change to their communities. What began as a singular mission trip in 2013 has grown into a beautiful ministry that impacts thousands of lives across Southern Haiti. Through education, healthcare, discipleship, and sustainable development, we’re working to build a brighter future for Haiti—one child, one family, and one community at a time.
Emmanuel Haiti started when members of a church in Cross Plains, TN, met fifty orphaned children in desperate need of a home.
Their response? A leap of faith. From that moment, a partnership was born that by God’s grace has flourished each day since. Today, Emmanuel Haiti continues to serve alongside Haitian pastors, teachers, and community leaders, making sure they have the resources and support they need to lead, teach, and inspire their communities.
But this isn’t actually our story—it’s God’s story, written through the lives of every child, widow, pastor, and family touched by this ministry. The story of this ministry is still being written, and we'd love for you to be a part of the journey—whether through prayer, giving, or joining us in the work. Together, we can make a lasting impact in Haiti!
how it all began
At Emmanuel Haiti, we believe transformation happens when we invest in people.
FAITH in action HOPE in motion
By working hand in hand with local partners, we’re able to help create opportunities for families to thrive—whether through education, sustainable resources, or spiritual support. Our mission isn’t about short-term relief; it’s about helping individuals create the foundation they need to build a stronger, brighter future for themselves and their communities.
Our work spans across multiple ministries that address urgent needs while creating lasting change:
Education Initiatives
Six schools, including Collège Emmanuel (K-12) serving 650 students.
medical clinic
Treating over 5,000 people annually with essential healthcare services.
transition homes
Supporting boys and girls aging out of orphanages with life skills and mentorship.
churches
40 churches built, strengthening faith communities.
homes for refugees
65 homes built, providing security and stability.
widow loan program
Offering microloans to help widows start businesses and gain financial independence.
meal programs
Over 300,000 meals provided annually to children and families.
school scholarships
Keeping children in school and families together.
school lunches
Ensuring students across six schools receive daily nutritious meals.
29:11 Jeremie business
Empowering local entrepreneurship through a bakery, sewing shop, farm, and taxi businesses.
farming programs
Helping families achieve autonomy through sustainable farming.
pastoral support
Strengthening and equipping church leaders to serve their communities.
radio station
Haiti’s only 24/7 Christian station, Taste of Salt, spreading hope through faith-based programs.
widow village
Empowering widows running their own businesses while caring for adopted girls and supporting young women transitioning from orphanages.
A little corner of heaven
Vicki tells how God has changed her life through her visits to Haiti
A group of PASSIONATE individuals who are deeply COMMITTED to Emmanuel's mission
Through God's guidance, Emmanuel has grown into a place of hope and transformation for children and communities in Haiti. It is His hand that has opened doors, sustained the mission, and changed lives. We are simply following where He leads and trusting in His plan to continue bringing restoration and renewal to those we serve.
Mary Phil Illges, Founder and Director
Ralph Illges, Chairman
Lynn Johns, Vice Chairman
Lisa Smith, Secretary
Mary Alice Yates, Treasurer
Sarah Hayden Curry, Savannah, GA
Mike & Laurie Ellsworth, Franklin, TN
Jeff & Margot Fosnes, Hermitage, TN
Gail Frazier, Springfield, TN
Sandra & David Head, Cross Plains, TN
Mike & Kim Hendley, Springfield, TN
Delaney Lazenby, Hendersonville, TN
Robert & Kim Lazenby, Cross Plains, TN
Carla Lorenzo, White House, TN
Vicky Manley, Gallatin, TN
Alex Marzano, Gallatin, TN
Julie & Mark Marzano, Spencer, IN
Elizabeth McGuire, Gilbert, SC
Clinton & Vicki Shultz, Orlinda, TN
Lauren Shultz, Orlinda, TN
Melissa Welker, Wellington, FL
Finding Emmanuel
a memoir by our founder and director, Mary Phil Illges
Finding Emmanuel weaves together real-life stories of God’s miraculous provision in Haiti from her “front-row seat.” Through moments of struggle, doubt, hope, and faith, the journey unfolds—not just to a remarkable place called Emmanuel, but to a deeper understanding of its true meaning: God with us. This book is a powerful reminder that even in the hardest places, God’s presence is near—guiding, providing, and revealing His greater purpose. A testament to faith in action and the undeniable hand of God at work, Finding Emmanuel will be released in late 2025.
