Stacy Librandi began her disaster relief work in Haiti in 2010, arriving shortly after the catastrophic magnitude 7 earthquake hit. She was untrained but determined to help. Initially planning to stay a week, her commitment extended to two weeks, then three, ultimately leading to her founding HERO, the Humanitarian Emergency Response Organization, which remains the primary emergency medical service in Haiti.
Librandi was born in San Diego and adopted as a baby. Her unconventional childhood included leaving school and living as a “nomad.” She eventually settled in New York, where she experienced personal and professional setbacks, prompting her to join relief efforts in Haiti. There, she began distributing supplies and coordinating aid, which laid the groundwork for HERO.
HERO now provides the highest level of pre-hospital care in the Caribbean, operating 24/7 as Haiti’s first local emergency response service. Librandi’s efforts caught the attention of international organizations, and despite having limited resources, she expanded services through innovative funding models and partnerships.
In 2021, following the assassination of Haiti’s President Jovenel Moïse and the rise of gang violence, HERO adapted by adding a security division. This response ensured continued operations in dangerous conditions. HERO has since grown to include ambulances, air medevacs, and a comprehensive security arm, collaborating with both local and international entities.
Today, HERO stands as a crucial force in Haiti, with plans to expand internationally, showcasing a model of resilience and adaptability in crisis response.