It is often hard to set aside time for matters other than work, family and entertainment due to our busy schedules. As a result, when someone goes beyond the call of duty to help others, it is deserving of recognition.
We are proud to announce that one of our very own Miami Parking Authority (MPA) family, Terrell Reid, is doing just that. Her dedication and commitment to improving the quality of life for many in the poverty-stricken country of Haiti has certainly impressed us.
On a trip to Haiti after the earthquake that devastated the country in 2010, she was painfully impacted by the conditions in which most families lived. The lack of adequate housing, food, clean water, electricity and essentials touched her heart in a significant way. The life-changing trip made her realize her true calling in life, helping those in need.
With that resolve in mind, she and her partner founded “Giving Hearts with Love Foundation,” a South Florida-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to enhance the health and wellbeing and improve the quality of life of those in needy communities.
For the past two years, they have organized annual gospel concerts titled “Rise Up for Haiti,” headlined by renowned artists. The first concert in 2016 gathered about 4,000 people and the one in 2017 attracted approximately 10,000.
In addition to the concerts, the Foundation provides food, clothing, medication, and many other supplies to hundreds of families. Equally important, the Foundation works with youth in Haiti, empowering them to attend school and strive for success. Currently, 50 percent of school-aged children in Haiti are not enrolled in school and approximately 38 percent of the population cannot read or write.
In light of these sobering statistics, the Foundation believes that education can be a great catalyst for ending poverty in Haiti. Their goal is to eventually build a school in Haiti that will give children access to a quality education. To them, providing an appropriate education to these children is paramount.
Terrell is an inspiration and a shining light in our organization and we applaud her efforts wholeheartedly. At MPA, we look up to her as a role model for selfless giving, dedication and commitment to help the most vulnerable ones in society.
Posted by: Alejandra Argudin, COO, Miami Parking Authority
Facebook: Giving Hearts with Love
Twitter: @ghwl_foundation
Instagram: @givingheartswithlove
