The needs and objectives for establishing this effort arose when, with a small medical team, Rachel Quirk traveled to Haiti for one week in May 2005. She was greatly disturbed by the distress and despair of the people.

Ms. Quirk returned to Haiti June 13 - July 12 to teach English to a home of orphans and a youth church group. During this time she thoroughly evaluated how and whom she might be able to help. She identified two rural communities in dire need of resources and financial support: Goyovier and 87th Place.

Upon returning to the United States, Ms. Quirk founded the nonprofit charitable and educational organization Help Haiti Now, which holds 501 (c)(3) tax-exempt status.

She traveled again to Haiti Sept. 2-12 to begin to offer assistance, define team members' responsibilities, and solidify plans for ongoing aid.

Her fourth trip, Nov. 9-17, 2005, continued the assistance and confirmed the responsibilities she has assumed.