About - Haitian Relief Services

Our Mission

Haitian Relief Services is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for the people of Haiti, starting with those in Ganthier.

Haitian Relief Services (HRS) is a small non-profit organization registered as a 501(c)(3) in Minnesota, with its headquarters based in River Falls, Wisconsin. Operating solely through the dedication of volunteers, HRS ensures that all donations directly support programs in Haiti, distinguishing it from other nonprofits.

For over two decades, HRS has been led by two compassionate individuals: Captain Pat O'Malley and Dr. Curt Larson. Captain O'Malley, a retired American Airlines Pilot, established HRS in 1997 and served as its president until 2023. Dr. Larson, an Emeritus Physics Professor at the University of Wisconsin River Falls, previously held the role of HRS's financial officer until 2023. Both gentlemen now serve as board members.

Making a Difference

Capt. O'Malley, flying American Airlines into Haiti, and Dr. Larson, witnessing Haiti's conditions firsthand on a Food For the Poor mission trip, have both seen the extreme poverty endured by Haitians. They, along with several other dedicated board members, volunteer to fulfill this mission. Despite the daunting task, they are inspired by the "Starfish Story":

As a young child walked along a beach at dawn, he noticed an old man ahead of him picking up starfish and tossing them into the sea. Catching up with the man, the child asked why he was doing this. The old man explained that the stranded starfish would die if left in the morning sun. "But the beach goes on for miles and there are thousands of starfish," exclaimed the child. "How can you alone make any difference?" The old man looked at the starfish in his hand and then tossed it safely into the waves. He turned to the child, smiled, and said, "I made a difference to that one."

This story captures the attitude needed when facing seemingly endless poverty. Our approach is to connect those with means in the River Falls community with those in need in Haiti. Through generous donations, we bridge the gap, blessing both donors and recipients.