What We Do – Organization for Citizens Humanitarian Assistance
The Organization for Citizens Humanitarian Assistance (OCHA) is dedicated to empowering immigrant youths and vulnerable populations by offering strategic programs in Career Services &Economic Empowerment, Health & Humanitarian Assistance, Education Development, and Mental Health & Legal Support Services. Below is a detailed breakdown of each focus area:
1. Career Services & Economic Empowerment
Objective: Facilitate economic independence by providing skill-based training, job placement assistance,and entrepreneurship support.
Key Programs:
Vocational Training & Workforce Development: Training in carpentry, computer literacy, welding, tailoring, solar electrics, and other trades aligned with local labor demands.
Job Placement & Career Coaching: Assistance with résumé building, interview preparation, and professional networking.
Entrepreneurship & Small Business Development: Support for immigrant-owned businesses, including mentorship and microfinance opportunities.
Financial Literacy Workshops: Educating individuals on budgeting, credit building, and investment strategies.
Expected Outcomes:
Increase employment rates among immigrant youths and vulnerable populations.
Reduce dependency on welfare programs through self-sufficiency initiatives.
Strengthen small businesses within immigrant communities.
2. Health & Humanitarian Assistance
Objective: Provide immediate relief and long-term health solutions to underserved populations.
Key Programs:
Disaster Relief & Emergency Assistance: Aid for victims of natural disasters, pandemics, and armed conflicts.
Healthcare Access & Mobile Clinics: Facilitating medical care for uninsured immigrants, including vaccinations, maternal health, and chronic disease management.
Food & Nutrition Support: Distribution of food aid and nutritional programs for malnourished children and adults.
Housing & Shelter Programs: Temporary housing assistance for refugees, asylum seekers, and parolees.
Expected Outcomes:
Improved healthcare access and reduced disease prevalence in vulnerable communities.
Increased food security for at-risk populations.
Strengthened disaster response capabilities.
3. Education Development Program
Objective: Enhance educational opportunities for immigrants and underserved youth, ensuring access to quality learning resources.
Key Programs:
Scholarships & Tuition Assistance: Financial aid for primary, secondary, and higher education.
School Supplies & Uniforms: Distribution of necessary materials for students in need.
Adult & Youth Literacy Programs: Language classes (ESL), GED preparation, and continuing education opportunities.
STEM & Technology Training: Computer skills and digital literacy training to enhance career opportunities.
Expected Outcomes:
Increased literacy and graduation rates among immigrant youth.
Enhanced career prospects through access to higher education.
Reduced school dropout rates.
4. Mental Health & Legal Support Services
Objective: Enhance educational opportunities for immigrants and underserved youth, ensuring access to quality learning resources.
Key Programs:
Trauma-Informed Counseling: Support for victims of displacement, war, and abuse .
Substance Abuse & Addiction Recovery Programs: Assistance for individuals struggling with addiction.
Immigration & Legal Aid Services: Help with asylum applications, work permits, and family reunification
Community Support Groups: Peer-led discussions to combat social isolation and cultural adjustment issues.
Expected Outcomes:
Improved mental health and well-being among immigrants
Increased legal protection and successful immigration cases.
Stronger community support networks
Core Values
Empowerment
Equip individuals with the skills and resources necessary to overcome adversity and achieve economic self-sufficiency.
Education for Change
Ensure access to quality education and vocational training as a pathway to long-term stability.
Compassion & Dignity
Serve all individuals with respect, recognizing their humanity, andadvocatingfor their rights.
Sustainability
Develop community-led, long-term solutions that continue to thrive beyond initial intervention.
Collaboration & Partnerships
Engage with governments, private sectors, faith-based organizations, and community groups to maximize impact.
Resilience & Adaptability
Address emerging humanitarian challenges with flexible and innovative solutions.
Accountability & Transparency
Ensure responsible management of resources to optimize support for in need
Improving the Wellbeing of the most vulnerable
Our Team
President & CEO
Juste Bertino Lagouwo
Founder of Organization for Citizens Humanitarian Assistance (OCHA) since 2016, Juste Bertino Lagouwo is the driving force behind our mission. With a deep commitment to empowering vulnerable communities, he has spearheaded humanitarian projects that provide education, disaster relief, and economic empowerment to immigrant youths and displaced populations. Under his leadership, OCHA has grown into a trusted organization, bridging gaps in humanitarian assistance across the U.S. and Africa. His visionary approach ensures that every initiative aligns with sustainability, resilience, and long-term impact.
Vice President
Tako Pierre
A steadfast advocate for human rights and a founding board member since 2016, TakoPierre brings extensive expertise in social justice and refugee protection. His unwavering dedication to defending the rights of displaced individuals has shaped OCHA’s advocacy efforts. His strategic oversight ensures that the organization operates with fairness, inclusivity, and ethical responsibility while amplifying the voices of those who are often unheard.
Human Resources Director
Samuel Okori
With a solid background in human resource management and marketing, Samuel Okori is instrumental in shaping OCHA’s team dynamics and outreach efforts. His expertise in talent acquisition, employee engagement, and capacity-building ensures that the organization attracts and retains a workforce driven by purpose. Additionally, his marketing acumen enhances OCHA’s visibility, fostering relationships with donors, volunteers, and strategic partners.
General Secretary
Kenvo Eric
A board member since 2020 and an expert in IT and cybersecurity, Kenvo Eric plays a pivotal role in securing and streamlining OCHA’s digital infrastructure. From safeguarding sensitive data to optimizing internal communication systems, he ensures that the organization operates with technological efficiency. His Innovative solutions strengthen digital security, enhance operational transparency, and facilitate seamless coordination across global initiatives.
Chief Operating Manager
Blessed Noble
From project management to logistical coordination, Blessed Noble plays a vital role in executing OCHA’s humanitarian assistance with precision. His expertise in operations ensures that programs run smoothly, resources are efficiently distributed, and field activities are well-coordinated. As a hands-on leader, he oversees implementation strategies, ensuring that every initiative reaches its intended beneficiaries with maximum impact.
Assistant Treasurer
Dakoyo Virgenie
Bringing keen attention to detail and strategic financial insights, Dakoyo Virgenie joined the board in 2020. Her role supports the treasurer in maintaining financial accuracy, compliance, and reporting. With a sharp analytical mindset, she contributes to OCHA’s sustainability by optimizing financial planning and reinforcing fiscal discipline, ensuring that funds are managed responsibly for long-term growth.
Treasurer
Cecile Fonanih
Committed to transparency, accountability, and financial integrity, Cecile Fonanih has served on the board since 2018. Her expertise in donor management and financial planning ensures that every contribution is allocated effectively to maximize impact. With a meticulous approach to budgeting and resource allocation, she safeguards OCHA’s financial health, reinforcing trust among stakeholders and benefactors.
