Our Story

In the heart of Orlando, amidst the unprecedented challenges of 2020, Jennifer Hilaire emerged as a beacon of resilience and hope. During a year shadowed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the poignant echoes of the George Floyd protests, Jennifer’s actions spoke volumes. From joining the frontlines of protests to providing essential support to those hit hardest by the global shutdown, her efforts were more than just aid; they were a testament to the power of community solidarity.

The Desire Foundation Inc. took root in this backdrop of adversity. The inaugural “Thanksgiving with a Friend” in Parramore, set against the backdrop of Interstruct’s welcoming lot, was not just a meal distribution event. Serving over 300 residents, it became the first of many initiatives under the banner of The Desire Foundation, an organization born out of necessity, compassion, and a deep-seated desire to make a difference.

Parramore, a community where adversity is not just a word but a daily reality for many, became the focal point of our mission. Here, where educational and economic challenges are stark, The Desire Foundation Inc. stands as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to breaking barriers and building bridges. Our initiatives extend beyond mere sustenance; they are about nurturing hope, creating opportunities, and empowering lives.

Collaborating with Interstruct, we transformed their facility into a hub of support and service, offering not just tangible resources like food and clothing but also hope and a sense of belonging. From facilitating basic necessities to providing guidance in navigating bureaucratic mazes, our services are as diverse as the community we serve.

The heart of our story, however, is encapsulated in the Unity Mural at 814 W. Church Street, featuring Jennifer Desir Hilaire. Commissioned during a tumultuous period in history, this mural has come to symbolize the spirit of The Desire Foundation – a symbol of unity, resilience, and the unwavering commitment to uplift those around us. Jennifer’s journey, from leading protests to nurturing The Desire Foundation, reflects our ethos: Empowering communities, one step at a time.

At The Desire Foundation, we are more than just a nonprofit; we are a movement. A movement born from the streets of Orlando, fueled by the passion of our people and driven by the belief that together, we can forge a brighter future for Parramore and beyond.

Empowering Communities, One Step at a Time.

Where it all started

  • It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

  • It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

  • It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

‘Desire'

Desir is my middle name, and it holds deep significance for me. Given to me by my mother, I am the only person in my family with Desir as my middle name, while most of the men in my family carry it as their last name. Bearing this name has always been an honor, but what truly matters is how I use it to empower others and keep my grandmother's and family’s legacy alive.

My grandmother was a remarkable woman, a farmer who cared deeply for her community. She fed thousands of people in the small town of Lascahobas, a commune in the Centre department of Haiti. Her dedication and love for her community inspire me every day.

Carrying the name Desir connects me to her strength and compassion, reminding me of the importance of giving back and nurturing those around us. It is through this legacy that I strive to make a difference, honoring my grandmother and our family’s roots.