Our GEM Ground Teams and Disaster Aid are propositioned in Florida and Texas we will be on the ground immediately after Hurricane Isaias makes landfall working with our local ground partners, churches and agencies. To learn more and support this mission, visit GEM.org
Our GEM Ground Teams and Disaster Aid are propositioned in Florida and Texas we will be on the ground immediately after Hurricane Isaias makes landfall working with our local ground partners, churches and agencies. To learn more and support this mission, visit GEM.org ...
PALI HUB | PALI LTRG | GEM USA WEST
When the Pali Hub opened its doors on April 13, the mission was clear: create a place where survivors of the Los Angeles fires could access resources, support, and guidance throughout the long-term recovery process.
Six months later, that work continues to grow.
Since opening:
• 1,722 survivor walk-ins
• 417 Disaster Case Management cases
• $366,184 in aid secured through DCM
In September alone:
• 537 walk-ins
• 208 new DCM cases opened
• $65,282 in client aid provided
Behind every number is a survivor navigating the realities of rebuilding - a family searching for resources, a homeowner working through the recovery process, or a small business owner trying to move forward.
The Disaster Case Management team works directly with survivors to identify needs, connect resources, advocate on their behalf, and help navigate the many challenges that come with long-term recovery.
In September, Pali Hub partners provided 1,191 hours of service across disaster case management and resource navigation, financial services, wellness, and construction and rebuilding support.
In addition to DCM aid has provided $76,665 in direct recovery assistance through rental assistance and small business recovery programs.
As recovery continues, our focus remains on identifying unmet needs, strengthening community preparedness, and building a network of support that remains in place long after the immediate disaster has passed.
The Pali Hub is more than a resource center. It is a place where survivors can walk through the door and know there is a team ready to listen, help, and work alongside them. Recovery takes time. It takes partnership. It takes community. Very special thanks to the Bob & Beth McCluney Foundation for your continued support @bethmccluney
#PaliHub #GlobalEmpowermentMission #LAFireRecovery#DisasterCaseManagement #LongTermRecovery
PALI HUB | PALI LTRG | GEM USA WEST
When the Pali Hub opened its doors on April 13, the mission was clear: create a place where survivors of the Los Angeles fires could access resources, support, and guidance throughout the long-term recovery process.
Six months later, that work continues to grow.
Since opening:
• 1,722 survivor walk-ins
• 417 Disaster Case Management cases
• $366,184 in aid secured through DCM
In September alone:
• 537 walk-ins
• 208 new DCM cases opened
• $65,282 in client aid provided
Behind every number is a survivor navigating the realities of rebuilding - a family searching for resources, a homeowner working through the recovery process, or a small business owner trying to move forward.
The Disaster Case Management team works directly with survivors to identify needs, connect resources, advocate on their behalf, and help navigate the many challenges that come with long-term recovery.
In September, Pali Hub partners provided 1,191 hours of service across disaster case management and resource navigation, financial services, wellness, and construction and rebuilding support.
In addition to DCM aid has provided $76,665 in direct recovery assistance through rental assistance and small business recovery programs.
As recovery continues, our focus remains on identifying unmet needs, strengthening community preparedness, and building a network of support that remains in place long after the immediate disaster has passed.
The Pali Hub is more than a resource center. It is a place where survivors can walk through the door and know there is a team ready to listen, help, and work alongside them. Recovery takes time. It takes partnership. It takes community. Very special thanks to the Bob & Beth McCluney Foundation for your continued support @bethmccluney
#PaliHub #GlobalEmpowermentMission #LAFireRecovery#DisasterCaseManagement #LongTermRecovery
...
INDONESIA EARTHQUAKE MISSION RECAP
GEM | Royal Carribean Group Response
On August 15, a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Flores, Indonesia, leaving widespread destruction across the island. Homes were destroyed or badly damaged, communities were displaced, and continued aftershocks left many families sleeping outside or in temporary shelters.
GEM teams arrived in Indonesia within days.
With the support of our mission partner @royalcaribbean, we established an operational and logistics base in Maumere and began moving assistance across the affected areas.
The response quickly grew to span four regencies, 12 districts and dozens of communities across Flores, including some of the hardest-hit and most remote areas of the island.
Nearly 40 tonnes of food and drinking water were delivered, including more than 13 tonnes of rice, alongside thousands of hygiene and essential supplies.
Reaching communities across Flores meant adapting to the terrain. Trucks and smaller vehicles carried assistance across the island, while motorcycles took over for the final stretch in places where larger vehicles could go no further. Throughout the response, local volunteers, community leaders and residents worked alongside our teams to help get assistance where it was needed.
This recap captures only a fraction of what went into the operation, thousands of supplies prepared and packed in Maumere, long days on the road, teams working across the island, and dozens of communities reached along the way.
The support of @royalcaribbean gave our teams the ability to move quickly and operate at scale, from the first days of the response through the final distributions.
A look back at our response in Flores and at the people who made it possible.
#GEMmissions #Indonesia #Flores #IndonesiaEarthquake #HumanitarianAid
INDONESIA EARTHQUAKE MISSION RECAP
GEM | Royal Carribean Group Response
On August 15, a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Flores, Indonesia, leaving widespread destruction across the island. Homes were destroyed or badly damaged, communities were displaced, and continued aftershocks left many families sleeping outside or in temporary shelters.
GEM teams arrived in Indonesia within days.
With the support of our mission partner @royalcaribbean, we established an operational and logistics base in Maumere and began moving assistance across the affected areas.
The response quickly grew to span four regencies, 12 districts and dozens of communities across Flores, including some of the hardest-hit and most remote areas of the island.
Nearly 40 tonnes of food and drinking water were delivered, including more than 13 tonnes of rice, alongside thousands of hygiene and essential supplies.
Reaching communities across Flores meant adapting to the terrain. Trucks and smaller vehicles carried assistance across the island, while motorcycles took over for the final stretch in places where larger vehicles could go no further. Throughout the response, local volunteers, community leaders and residents worked alongside our teams to help get assistance where it was needed.
This recap captures only a fraction of what went into the operation, thousands of supplies prepared and packed in Maumere, long days on the road, teams working across the island, and dozens of communities reached along the way.
The support of @royalcaribbean gave our teams the ability to move quickly and operate at scale, from the first days of the response through the final distributions.
A look back at our response in Flores and at the people who made it possible.
#GEMmissions #Indonesia #Flores #IndonesiaEarthquake #HumanitarianAid
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100 DAY VENEZUELA UPDATE 🇻🇪
Yesterday marked 100 days since the twin earthquakes struck #Venezuela, devastating major parts of the country.
To date, here’s what @globalempowermentmissionlatam,
in partnership with @welove_foundation, the US @statedept, @usembassyve and the incredible Venezuelan diaspora (across 37+ states and multiple countries), has been able to do so far for the Venezuelan people.
To date, our impact includes:
•Total Value Delivered: $47,424,540.22 worth of aid
•Total Pallets & Weight: 9,010 pallets (8,238,069 lbs / 3,736.73 metric tons)
•Transport & Logistics: 31 cargo planes, 265 containers landed in VZ (90 in transit), and 5 military landing crafts
•Priority Relief Goods:
161,155 GEM Family Necessity Kits
26,043 GEM Non-Food Kits
43,045 cases of Water & 28,974 cases of Hydration Beverages
61,765 cases of Baby Supplies & 16,548 cases of Shelter Supplies
12,190 cases of Medical Supplies & 114 Generators
•Individuals Served:
July: 277,354 (Food & Hydration) | 144,125 (Non-Food Items)
August: 149,539 (Food & Hydration) | 68,108 (Non-Food Items)
September: 141,649 (Food & Hydration) | 128,796 (Non-Food Items)
We will be here for the very long haul. Our partners, @welove_foundation are spearheading the major repairs of 3 schools already. Our goal is to repair at least 10 schools in 2027. In December 2026 we are launching a major rehousing program for IDPs who lost their homes.
We still need your support and we need communities to keep delivering food and shelter supplies to HQ till Christmas PLEASE. We have 5 @prologis warehouses in Doral and 2 in LaGuaria. Goal 100 M in aid to Venezuela for year 1.
Thank you for all your support. Thank you to our donors and corporate partners. @caritasdevzla @caritaslg
100 DAY VENEZUELA UPDATE 🇻🇪
Yesterday marked 100 days since the twin earthquakes struck #Venezuela, devastating major parts of the country.
To date, here’s what @globalempowermentmissionlatam,
in partnership with @welove_foundation, the US @statedept, @usembassyve and the incredible Venezuelan diaspora (across 37+ states and multiple countries), has been able to do so far for the Venezuelan people.
To date, our impact includes:
•Total Value Delivered: $47,424,540.22 worth of aid
•Total Pallets & Weight: 9,010 pallets (8,238,069 lbs / 3,736.73 metric tons)
•Transport & Logistics: 31 cargo planes, 265 containers landed in VZ (90 in transit), and 5 military landing crafts
•Priority Relief Goods:
161,155 GEM Family Necessity Kits
26,043 GEM Non-Food Kits
43,045 cases of Water & 28,974 cases of Hydration Beverages
61,765 cases of Baby Supplies & 16,548 cases of Shelter Supplies
12,190 cases of Medical Supplies & 114 Generators
•Individuals Served:
July: 277,354 (Food & Hydration) | 144,125 (Non-Food Items)
August: 149,539 (Food & Hydration) | 68,108 (Non-Food Items)
September: 141,649 (Food & Hydration) | 128,796 (Non-Food Items)
We will be here for the very long haul. Our partners, @welove_foundation are spearheading the major repairs of 3 schools already. Our goal is to repair at least 10 schools in 2027. In December 2026 we are launching a major rehousing program for IDPs who lost their homes.
We still need your support and we need communities to keep delivering food and shelter supplies to HQ till Christmas PLEASE. We have 5 @prologis warehouses in Doral and 2 in LaGuaria. Goal 100 M in aid to Venezuela for year 1.
Thank you for all your support. Thank you to our donors and corporate partners. @caritasdevzla @caritaslg
...
Today, GEM President @michaelcapponi and @globalempowermentmissionlatam’s Colombia Operations Director, @simonrodri96 signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Daniel Suarez, Director of the reconstruction division for Fundación Solidaridad por Colombia and Alexandra Ruiz Farah, part of the team, marking a powerful new partnership in phase 2 of Colombia’s recovery.
Founded in 1975 by former First Lady Nydia Quintero de Balcázar alongside her daughter, renowned journalist Diana Turbay, Solidaridad por Colombia has spent more than 51 years serving vulnerable families and communities throughout the Colombia.
The foundation’s history is also one of extraordinary resilience. Diana Turbay was kidnapped in 1990 by a group acting on behalf of Pablo Escobar and tragically lost her life during a failed rescue operation in 1991. Her commitment to Colombia and her family’s legacy of service continued forward, and today her daughter, @mcarolinahoyost, leads Solidaridad por Colombia as its president, carrying her grandmother and mother’s mission into a new generation.
This partnership brings together GEM’s international humanitarian response experience, global logistics network and disaster-response capabilities with Solidaridad por Colombia’s more than five decades of local knowledge, trusted community relationships and deep understanding of the Colombian people.
Partnerships like this demonstrate what is possible when international experience is combined with strong local expertise. By working together, GEM and @fundacionsolidaridadxcol can respond faster, reach further and build stronger, more effective humanitarian programs for communities across #Colombia.
Today, GEM President @michaelcapponi and @globalempowermentmissionlatam’s Colombia Operations Director, @simonrodri96 signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Daniel Suarez, Director of the reconstruction division for Fundación Solidaridad por Colombia and Alexandra Ruiz Farah, part of the team, marking a powerful new partnership in phase 2 of Colombia’s recovery.
Founded in 1975 by former First Lady Nydia Quintero de Balcázar alongside her daughter, renowned journalist Diana Turbay, Solidaridad por Colombia has spent more than 51 years serving vulnerable families and communities throughout the Colombia.
The foundation’s history is also one of extraordinary resilience. Diana Turbay was kidnapped in 1990 by a group acting on behalf of Pablo Escobar and tragically lost her life during a failed rescue operation in 1991. Her commitment to Colombia and her family’s legacy of service continued forward, and today her daughter, @mcarolinahoyost, leads Solidaridad por Colombia as its president, carrying her grandmother and mother’s mission into a new generation.
This partnership brings together GEM’s international humanitarian response experience, global logistics network and disaster-response capabilities with Solidaridad por Colombia’s more than five decades of local knowledge, trusted community relationships and deep understanding of the Colombian people.
Partnerships like this demonstrate what is possible when international experience is combined with strong local expertise. By working together, GEM and @fundacionsolidaridadxcol can respond faster, reach further and build stronger, more effective humanitarian programs for communities across #Colombia.
...
GEM EU & Asia continues to scale its humanitarian response in Nepal following the devastating flash floods.
The first air shipment supporting GEM’s response has now arrived in Nepal, carrying an additional GEM Family Necessity Kits with the support of Airlink, adding to the assistance already being delivered by our teams on the ground.
The kits will now be distributed across flood-affected communities, providing families with $144,000 in essential supplies as this humanitarian recovery continues.
We are grateful to @airlinkflight for supporting the air transport of this shipment to Nepal, the Nepal Peace Scouts and the Government of Nepal, including the Ministry of Home Affairs, its Disaster Policy Coordination and International Relations Section, and NDRRMA for their coordination and support throughout the process.
Our teams remain in Nepal, working alongside local partners and continuing distributions in affected areas.
The response continues. To learn more visit the link in our bio, or GEM.org to support this mission.
GEM EU & Asia continues to scale its humanitarian response in Nepal following the devastating flash floods.
The first air shipment supporting GEM’s response has now arrived in Nepal, carrying an additional GEM Family Necessity Kits with the support of Airlink, adding to the assistance already being delivered by our teams on the ground.
The kits will now be distributed across flood-affected communities, providing families with $144,000 in essential supplies as this humanitarian recovery continues.
We are grateful to @airlinkflight for supporting the air transport of this shipment to Nepal, the Nepal Peace Scouts and the Government of Nepal, including the Ministry of Home Affairs, its Disaster Policy Coordination and International Relations Section, and NDRRMA for their coordination and support throughout the process.
Our teams remain in Nepal, working alongside local partners and continuing distributions in affected areas.
The response continues. To learn more visit the link in our bio, or GEM.org to support this mission.
...
The Big Island is still experiencing periods of heavy rain, particularly across the southeastern and windward portions of the island. Trailing bands of moisture from Nolo could continue to produce additional rainfall and localized flooding as the storm slowly moves away. Gusty winds also remain possible, with some areas of the Big Island potentially experiencing gusts approaching 55 mph.
Dangerous surf also remains a concern. High Surf Advisories are in effect for east and southeast-facing shores of the Big Island, Maui and Molokaʻi, as well as east-facing shores of Oʻahu and Kauaʻi. Surf is expected to begin gradually diminishing Sunday as Nolo moves farther west.
While the change in Nolo’s track is welcome news for Hawaiʻi, we are not completely out of the woods yet. Strong and gusty trade winds will continue, and residents should remain alert for additional rain, localized flooding, hazardous surf and rapidly changing conditions.
GEM Hawaiʻi Pacific teams remain prepositioned and ready to respond should any communities require assistance. After several storms have impacted Hawaiʻi this season, our teams continue to monitor conditions across the islands and stand ready to mobilize wherever help is needed.
Please continue to follow guidance from local and state officials and monitor official weather alerts.
To learn more about GEM Hawaiʻi Pacific and support our ongoing disaster response efforts, visit the link in our bio or GEM.org.
#HurricaneNolo #Hawaii #GEMmissions #GEMHawaii #DisasterResponse
The Big Island is still experiencing periods of heavy rain, particularly across the southeastern and windward portions of the island. Trailing bands of moisture from Nolo could continue to produce additional rainfall and localized flooding as the storm slowly moves away. Gusty winds also remain possible, with some areas of the Big Island potentially experiencing gusts approaching 55 mph.
Dangerous surf also remains a concern. High Surf Advisories are in effect for east and southeast-facing shores of the Big Island, Maui and Molokaʻi, as well as east-facing shores of Oʻahu and Kauaʻi. Surf is expected to begin gradually diminishing Sunday as Nolo moves farther west.
While the change in Nolo’s track is welcome news for Hawaiʻi, we are not completely out of the woods yet. Strong and gusty trade winds will continue, and residents should remain alert for additional rain, localized flooding, hazardous surf and rapidly changing conditions.
GEM Hawaiʻi Pacific teams remain prepositioned and ready to respond should any communities require assistance. After several storms have impacted Hawaiʻi this season, our teams continue to monitor conditions across the islands and stand ready to mobilize wherever help is needed.
Please continue to follow guidance from local and state officials and monitor official weather alerts.
To learn more about GEM Hawaiʻi Pacific and support our ongoing disaster response efforts, visit the link in our bio or GEM.org.
#HurricaneNolo #Hawaii #GEMmissions #GEMHawaii #DisasterResponse
...
Today marks two years since #HurricaneHelene made landfall in #Florida as a Category 4 storm, devastating communities across Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas, Tennessee, Virginia and beyond.
GEM responded immediately, establishing operations throughout Florida and North Carolina, while reaching rural and cut-off communities by vehicle and helicopter.
Two years later, here is some of what this response accomplished:
* 37,000+ people supported with humanitarian aid across North Carolina and Florida
* 65 full-size semi-truck loads of aid delivered and distributed
* 120+ Starlink devices delivered through GEM and partners
* 50+ helicopter deliveries and/or evacuations
* 189 people provided free short-term accommodations through Airbnb.org
* 150+ people provided free long-term housing assistance
* $453,000+ in housing assistance supporting 88 households, including rental assistance and 19 FEMA trailers
* $700,000 in grants provided to 121 small businesses, artisans and farmers
Two years later, we remember the communities forever changed by Helene and remain grateful to every donor, partner, volunteer, first responder and GEM team member who helped turn immediate relief into long-term recovery. #davidandnicoletepper
Today marks two years since #HurricaneHelene made landfall in #Florida as a Category 4 storm, devastating communities across Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas, Tennessee, Virginia and beyond.
GEM responded immediately, establishing operations throughout Florida and North Carolina, while reaching rural and cut-off communities by vehicle and helicopter.
Two years later, here is some of what this response accomplished:
* 37,000+ people supported with humanitarian aid across North Carolina and Florida
* 65 full-size semi-truck loads of aid delivered and distributed
* 120+ Starlink devices delivered through GEM and partners
* 50+ helicopter deliveries and/or evacuations
* 189 people provided free short-term accommodations through Airbnb.org
* 150+ people provided free long-term housing assistance
* $453,000+ in housing assistance supporting 88 households, including rental assistance and 19 FEMA trailers
* $700,000 in grants provided to 121 small businesses, artisans and farmers
Two years later, we remember the communities forever changed by Helene and remain grateful to every donor, partner, volunteer, first responder and GEM team member who helped turn immediate relief into long-term recovery. #davidandnicoletepper
...
HAWAIʻI — HURRICANE NOLO UPDATE
GEM Hawaiʻi Pacific is closely monitoring Hurricane Nolo as the powerful storm continues to strengthen south of the Hawaiian Islands and conditions begin to deteriorate across portions of the state.
Nolo has strengthened into a Category 2 hurricane with sustained winds near 105 mph as it moves slowly north-northeast toward Hawaiʻi. The Big Island is currently under a Tropical Storm Warning and Hurricane Watch, with tropical storm conditions expected and hurricane-force conditions remaining possible. Portions of Maui County are also under a Tropical Storm Watch.
The greatest concern remains the potential for extreme rainfall and life-threatening flooding. Forecasters warn that the eastern and southern portions of Hawaiʻi Island could experience catastrophic flash flooding and mudslides, while Maui and other islands could also see significant rainfall, flooding, strong winds and dangerous surf as Nolo passes south of the state.
GEM Hawaiʻi Pacific teams are prepositioned and ready to respond. Our teams continue to coordinate and prepare resources so we can rapidly mobilize assistance to communities impacted by the storm.
We urge everyone across Hawaiʻi to take this storm seriously, remain prepared, follow instructions from local and state emergency officials, and continue monitoring official weather alerts as Nolo approaches.
GEM will continue monitoring conditions across the islands and will provide updates as the situation develops.
To learn more about GEM’s Hawaiʻi operations, please visit the link in our bio or GEM.org.
#HurricaneNolo #Hawaii #GEMmissions #DisasterResponse #HawaiiPacific
HAWAIʻI — HURRICANE NOLO UPDATE
GEM Hawaiʻi Pacific is closely monitoring Hurricane Nolo as the powerful storm continues to strengthen south of the Hawaiian Islands and conditions begin to deteriorate across portions of the state.
Nolo has strengthened into a Category 2 hurricane with sustained winds near 105 mph as it moves slowly north-northeast toward Hawaiʻi. The Big Island is currently under a Tropical Storm Warning and Hurricane Watch, with tropical storm conditions expected and hurricane-force conditions remaining possible. Portions of Maui County are also under a Tropical Storm Watch.
The greatest concern remains the potential for extreme rainfall and life-threatening flooding. Forecasters warn that the eastern and southern portions of Hawaiʻi Island could experience catastrophic flash flooding and mudslides, while Maui and other islands could also see significant rainfall, flooding, strong winds and dangerous surf as Nolo passes south of the state.
GEM Hawaiʻi Pacific teams are prepositioned and ready to respond. Our teams continue to coordinate and prepare resources so we can rapidly mobilize assistance to communities impacted by the storm.
We urge everyone across Hawaiʻi to take this storm seriously, remain prepared, follow instructions from local and state emergency officials, and continue monitoring official weather alerts as Nolo approaches.
GEM will continue monitoring conditions across the islands and will provide updates as the situation develops.
To learn more about GEM’s Hawaiʻi operations, please visit the link in our bio or GEM.org.
#HurricaneNolo #Hawaii #GEMmissions #DisasterResponse #HawaiiPacific
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First Day of School for GEM Haiti Students 🇭🇹📚
A new school year means new beginnings, new opportunities, and another step toward a brighter future for our students in Haiti.
For 15 Years, Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) has remained committed to supporting education throughout Haiti. We believe education is one of the most powerful tools for creating lasting change, opening doors to opportunity, building confidence, and strengthening communities for generations to come.
Working alongside local educators, GEM supports students from elementary school through university, helping remove the financial and logistical barriers that can stand between a child and a the opportunity for an education.
Our GEM Haiti education, medical, and empowerment programs provide support including:
• School registration and tuition
• Uniforms and school supplies
• Daily lunches
• Transportation and logistics
• Medical care
• Field trips and enrichment opportunities
• After-school care
• Private tutoring
• English-language classes
The impact reaches far beyond the classroom. Every student given the opportunity to learn carries that knowledge, ambition, and possibility back into their family and community.
As our students return to their classrooms, we celebrate more than the first day of school. We celebrate their dreams, their determination, and the futures they are working to build.
Here’s to a wonderful new school year for our GEM Haiti students. 🇭🇹To learn more about about GEM Programs and our mission work in Haiti, visit: www.GEM.org
First Day of School for GEM Haiti Students 🇭🇹📚
A new school year means new beginnings, new opportunities, and another step toward a brighter future for our students in Haiti.
For 15 Years, Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) has remained committed to supporting education throughout Haiti. We believe education is one of the most powerful tools for creating lasting change, opening doors to opportunity, building confidence, and strengthening communities for generations to come.
Working alongside local educators, GEM supports students from elementary school through university, helping remove the financial and logistical barriers that can stand between a child and a the opportunity for an education.
Our GEM Haiti education, medical, and empowerment programs provide support including:
• School registration and tuition
• Uniforms and school supplies
• Daily lunches
• Transportation and logistics
• Medical care
• Field trips and enrichment opportunities
• After-school care
• Private tutoring
• English-language classes
The impact reaches far beyond the classroom. Every student given the opportunity to learn carries that knowledge, ambition, and possibility back into their family and community.
As our students return to their classrooms, we celebrate more than the first day of school. We celebrate their dreams, their determination, and the futures they are working to build.
Here’s to a wonderful new school year for our GEM Haiti students. 🇭🇹To learn more about about GEM Programs and our mission work in Haiti, visit: www.GEM.org
...
Danielle Dreis has dedicated her career to helping communities recover from disaster, combining strategic leadership with a deep commitment to serving survivors.
Her connection to Global Empowerment Mission began following the 2010 Haiti earthquake, where she met GEM Founder Michael Capponi while working in humanitarian response. She later joined GEM directly, supporting disaster missions in Haiti, Puerto Rico, the Bahamas, Bolivia, and beyond.
Of Hawaiian heritage, Danielle was raised in Spokane, Washington, while maintaining deep family ties to Hawaiʻi throughout her life. Following the devastating Maui wildfires in 2023, she took on leadership of GEM’s Hawaiʻi operations, bringing together years of global disaster-response experience with a community deeply personal to her.
Today, as Executive Director of GEM Hawaiʻi-Pacific, Danielle oversees emergency response and long-term recovery initiatives across the region, including housing, disaster case management, direct assistance, and community recovery.
Working alongside government, nonprofit, philanthropic, and private-sector partners, Danielle remains focused on one mission: helping disaster-impacted communities move from crisis toward lasting recovery and resilience. @danielle.dreis @globalempowermentmissionhawaii
Danielle Dreis has dedicated her career to helping communities recover from disaster, combining strategic leadership with a deep commitment to serving survivors.
Her connection to Global Empowerment Mission began following the 2010 Haiti earthquake, where she met GEM Founder Michael Capponi while working in humanitarian response. She later joined GEM directly, supporting disaster missions in Haiti, Puerto Rico, the Bahamas, Bolivia, and beyond.
Of Hawaiian heritage, Danielle was raised in Spokane, Washington, while maintaining deep family ties to Hawaiʻi throughout her life. Following the devastating Maui wildfires in 2023, she took on leadership of GEM’s Hawaiʻi operations, bringing together years of global disaster-response experience with a community deeply personal to her.
Today, as Executive Director of GEM Hawaiʻi-Pacific, Danielle oversees emergency response and long-term recovery initiatives across the region, including housing, disaster case management, direct assistance, and community recovery.
Working alongside government, nonprofit, philanthropic, and private-sector partners, Danielle remains focused on one mission: helping disaster-impacted communities move from crisis toward lasting recovery and resilience. @danielle.dreis @globalempowermentmissionhawaii
...
Our GEM Ground Teams and Disaster Aid are propositioned in Florida and Texas we will be on the ground immediately after Hurricane Isaias makes landfall working with our local ground partners, churches and agencies. To learn more and support this mission, visit GEM.org
Our GEM Ground Teams and Disaster Aid are propositioned in Florida and Texas we will be on the ground immediately after Hurricane Isaias makes landfall working with our local ground partners, churches and agencies. To learn more and support this mission, visit GEM.org ...
PALI HUB | PALI LTRG | GEM USA WEST
When the Pali Hub opened its doors on April 13, the mission was clear: create a place where survivors of the Los Angeles fires could access resources, support, and guidance throughout the long-term recovery process.
Six months later, that work continues to grow.
Since opening:
• 1,722 survivor walk-ins
• 417 Disaster Case Management cases
• $366,184 in aid secured through DCM
In September alone:
• 537 walk-ins
• 208 new DCM cases opened
• $65,282 in client aid provided
Behind every number is a survivor navigating the realities of rebuilding - a family searching for resources, a homeowner working through the recovery process, or a small business owner trying to move forward.
The Disaster Case Management team works directly with survivors to identify needs, connect resources, advocate on their behalf, and help navigate the many challenges that come with long-term recovery.
In September, Pali Hub partners provided 1,191 hours of service across disaster case management and resource navigation, financial services, wellness, and construction and rebuilding support.
In addition to DCM aid has provided $76,665 in direct recovery assistance through rental assistance and small business recovery programs.
As recovery continues, our focus remains on identifying unmet needs, strengthening community preparedness, and building a network of support that remains in place long after the immediate disaster has passed.
The Pali Hub is more than a resource center. It is a place where survivors can walk through the door and know there is a team ready to listen, help, and work alongside them. Recovery takes time. It takes partnership. It takes community. Very special thanks to the Bob & Beth McCluney Foundation for your continued support @bethmccluney
#PaliHub #GlobalEmpowermentMission #LAFireRecovery#DisasterCaseManagement #LongTermRecovery
PALI HUB | PALI LTRG | GEM USA WEST
When the Pali Hub opened its doors on April 13, the mission was clear: create a place where survivors of the Los Angeles fires could access resources, support, and guidance throughout the long-term recovery process.
Six months later, that work continues to grow.
Since opening:
• 1,722 survivor walk-ins
• 417 Disaster Case Management cases
• $366,184 in aid secured through DCM
In September alone:
• 537 walk-ins
• 208 new DCM cases opened
• $65,282 in client aid provided
Behind every number is a survivor navigating the realities of rebuilding - a family searching for resources, a homeowner working through the recovery process, or a small business owner trying to move forward.
The Disaster Case Management team works directly with survivors to identify needs, connect resources, advocate on their behalf, and help navigate the many challenges that come with long-term recovery.
In September, Pali Hub partners provided 1,191 hours of service across disaster case management and resource navigation, financial services, wellness, and construction and rebuilding support.
In addition to DCM aid has provided $76,665 in direct recovery assistance through rental assistance and small business recovery programs.
As recovery continues, our focus remains on identifying unmet needs, strengthening community preparedness, and building a network of support that remains in place long after the immediate disaster has passed.
The Pali Hub is more than a resource center. It is a place where survivors can walk through the door and know there is a team ready to listen, help, and work alongside them. Recovery takes time. It takes partnership. It takes community. Very special thanks to the Bob & Beth McCluney Foundation for your continued support @bethmccluney
#PaliHub #GlobalEmpowermentMission #LAFireRecovery#DisasterCaseManagement #LongTermRecovery
...
INDONESIA EARTHQUAKE MISSION RECAP
GEM | Royal Carribean Group Response
On August 15, a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Flores, Indonesia, leaving widespread destruction across the island. Homes were destroyed or badly damaged, communities were displaced, and continued aftershocks left many families sleeping outside or in temporary shelters.
GEM teams arrived in Indonesia within days.
With the support of our mission partner @royalcaribbean, we established an operational and logistics base in Maumere and began moving assistance across the affected areas.
The response quickly grew to span four regencies, 12 districts and dozens of communities across Flores, including some of the hardest-hit and most remote areas of the island.
Nearly 40 tonnes of food and drinking water were delivered, including more than 13 tonnes of rice, alongside thousands of hygiene and essential supplies.
Reaching communities across Flores meant adapting to the terrain. Trucks and smaller vehicles carried assistance across the island, while motorcycles took over for the final stretch in places where larger vehicles could go no further. Throughout the response, local volunteers, community leaders and residents worked alongside our teams to help get assistance where it was needed.
This recap captures only a fraction of what went into the operation, thousands of supplies prepared and packed in Maumere, long days on the road, teams working across the island, and dozens of communities reached along the way.
The support of @royalcaribbean gave our teams the ability to move quickly and operate at scale, from the first days of the response through the final distributions.
A look back at our response in Flores and at the people who made it possible.
#GEMmissions #Indonesia #Flores #IndonesiaEarthquake #HumanitarianAid
INDONESIA EARTHQUAKE MISSION RECAP
GEM | Royal Carribean Group Response
On August 15, a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Flores, Indonesia, leaving widespread destruction across the island. Homes were destroyed or badly damaged, communities were displaced, and continued aftershocks left many families sleeping outside or in temporary shelters.
GEM teams arrived in Indonesia within days.
With the support of our mission partner @royalcaribbean, we established an operational and logistics base in Maumere and began moving assistance across the affected areas.
The response quickly grew to span four regencies, 12 districts and dozens of communities across Flores, including some of the hardest-hit and most remote areas of the island.
Nearly 40 tonnes of food and drinking water were delivered, including more than 13 tonnes of rice, alongside thousands of hygiene and essential supplies.
Reaching communities across Flores meant adapting to the terrain. Trucks and smaller vehicles carried assistance across the island, while motorcycles took over for the final stretch in places where larger vehicles could go no further. Throughout the response, local volunteers, community leaders and residents worked alongside our teams to help get assistance where it was needed.
This recap captures only a fraction of what went into the operation, thousands of supplies prepared and packed in Maumere, long days on the road, teams working across the island, and dozens of communities reached along the way.
The support of @royalcaribbean gave our teams the ability to move quickly and operate at scale, from the first days of the response through the final distributions.
A look back at our response in Flores and at the people who made it possible.
#GEMmissions #Indonesia #Flores #IndonesiaEarthquake #HumanitarianAid
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100 DAY VENEZUELA UPDATE 🇻🇪
Yesterday marked 100 days since the twin earthquakes struck #Venezuela, devastating major parts of the country.
To date, here’s what @globalempowermentmissionlatam,
in partnership with @welove_foundation, the US @statedept, @usembassyve and the incredible Venezuelan diaspora (across 37+ states and multiple countries), has been able to do so far for the Venezuelan people.
To date, our impact includes:
•Total Value Delivered: $47,424,540.22 worth of aid
•Total Pallets & Weight: 9,010 pallets (8,238,069 lbs / 3,736.73 metric tons)
•Transport & Logistics: 31 cargo planes, 265 containers landed in VZ (90 in transit), and 5 military landing crafts
•Priority Relief Goods:
161,155 GEM Family Necessity Kits
26,043 GEM Non-Food Kits
43,045 cases of Water & 28,974 cases of Hydration Beverages
61,765 cases of Baby Supplies & 16,548 cases of Shelter Supplies
12,190 cases of Medical Supplies & 114 Generators
•Individuals Served:
July: 277,354 (Food & Hydration) | 144,125 (Non-Food Items)
August: 149,539 (Food & Hydration) | 68,108 (Non-Food Items)
September: 141,649 (Food & Hydration) | 128,796 (Non-Food Items)
We will be here for the very long haul. Our partners, @welove_foundation are spearheading the major repairs of 3 schools already. Our goal is to repair at least 10 schools in 2027. In December 2026 we are launching a major rehousing program for IDPs who lost their homes.
We still need your support and we need communities to keep delivering food and shelter supplies to HQ till Christmas PLEASE. We have 5 @prologis warehouses in Doral and 2 in LaGuaria. Goal 100 M in aid to Venezuela for year 1.
Thank you for all your support. Thank you to our donors and corporate partners. @caritasdevzla @caritaslg
100 DAY VENEZUELA UPDATE 🇻🇪
Yesterday marked 100 days since the twin earthquakes struck #Venezuela, devastating major parts of the country.
To date, here’s what @globalempowermentmissionlatam,
in partnership with @welove_foundation, the US @statedept, @usembassyve and the incredible Venezuelan diaspora (across 37+ states and multiple countries), has been able to do so far for the Venezuelan people.
To date, our impact includes:
•Total Value Delivered: $47,424,540.22 worth of aid
•Total Pallets & Weight: 9,010 pallets (8,238,069 lbs / 3,736.73 metric tons)
•Transport & Logistics: 31 cargo planes, 265 containers landed in VZ (90 in transit), and 5 military landing crafts
•Priority Relief Goods:
161,155 GEM Family Necessity Kits
26,043 GEM Non-Food Kits
43,045 cases of Water & 28,974 cases of Hydration Beverages
61,765 cases of Baby Supplies & 16,548 cases of Shelter Supplies
12,190 cases of Medical Supplies & 114 Generators
•Individuals Served:
July: 277,354 (Food & Hydration) | 144,125 (Non-Food Items)
August: 149,539 (Food & Hydration) | 68,108 (Non-Food Items)
September: 141,649 (Food & Hydration) | 128,796 (Non-Food Items)
We will be here for the very long haul. Our partners, @welove_foundation are spearheading the major repairs of 3 schools already. Our goal is to repair at least 10 schools in 2027. In December 2026 we are launching a major rehousing program for IDPs who lost their homes.
We still need your support and we need communities to keep delivering food and shelter supplies to HQ till Christmas PLEASE. We have 5 @prologis warehouses in Doral and 2 in LaGuaria. Goal 100 M in aid to Venezuela for year 1.
Thank you for all your support. Thank you to our donors and corporate partners. @caritasdevzla @caritaslg
...
Today, GEM President @michaelcapponi and @globalempowermentmissionlatam’s Colombia Operations Director, @simonrodri96 signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Daniel Suarez, Director of the reconstruction division for Fundación Solidaridad por Colombia and Alexandra Ruiz Farah, part of the team, marking a powerful new partnership in phase 2 of Colombia’s recovery.
Founded in 1975 by former First Lady Nydia Quintero de Balcázar alongside her daughter, renowned journalist Diana Turbay, Solidaridad por Colombia has spent more than 51 years serving vulnerable families and communities throughout the Colombia.
The foundation’s history is also one of extraordinary resilience. Diana Turbay was kidnapped in 1990 by a group acting on behalf of Pablo Escobar and tragically lost her life during a failed rescue operation in 1991. Her commitment to Colombia and her family’s legacy of service continued forward, and today her daughter, @mcarolinahoyost, leads Solidaridad por Colombia as its president, carrying her grandmother and mother’s mission into a new generation.
This partnership brings together GEM’s international humanitarian response experience, global logistics network and disaster-response capabilities with Solidaridad por Colombia’s more than five decades of local knowledge, trusted community relationships and deep understanding of the Colombian people.
Partnerships like this demonstrate what is possible when international experience is combined with strong local expertise. By working together, GEM and @fundacionsolidaridadxcol can respond faster, reach further and build stronger, more effective humanitarian programs for communities across #Colombia.
Today, GEM President @michaelcapponi and @globalempowermentmissionlatam’s Colombia Operations Director, @simonrodri96 signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Daniel Suarez, Director of the reconstruction division for Fundación Solidaridad por Colombia and Alexandra Ruiz Farah, part of the team, marking a powerful new partnership in phase 2 of Colombia’s recovery.
Founded in 1975 by former First Lady Nydia Quintero de Balcázar alongside her daughter, renowned journalist Diana Turbay, Solidaridad por Colombia has spent more than 51 years serving vulnerable families and communities throughout the Colombia.
The foundation’s history is also one of extraordinary resilience. Diana Turbay was kidnapped in 1990 by a group acting on behalf of Pablo Escobar and tragically lost her life during a failed rescue operation in 1991. Her commitment to Colombia and her family’s legacy of service continued forward, and today her daughter, @mcarolinahoyost, leads Solidaridad por Colombia as its president, carrying her grandmother and mother’s mission into a new generation.
This partnership brings together GEM’s international humanitarian response experience, global logistics network and disaster-response capabilities with Solidaridad por Colombia’s more than five decades of local knowledge, trusted community relationships and deep understanding of the Colombian people.
Partnerships like this demonstrate what is possible when international experience is combined with strong local expertise. By working together, GEM and @fundacionsolidaridadxcol can respond faster, reach further and build stronger, more effective humanitarian programs for communities across #Colombia.
...
GEM EU & Asia continues to scale its humanitarian response in Nepal following the devastating flash floods.
The first air shipment supporting GEM’s response has now arrived in Nepal, carrying an additional GEM Family Necessity Kits with the support of Airlink, adding to the assistance already being delivered by our teams on the ground.
The kits will now be distributed across flood-affected communities, providing families with $144,000 in essential supplies as this humanitarian recovery continues.
We are grateful to @airlinkflight for supporting the air transport of this shipment to Nepal, the Nepal Peace Scouts and the Government of Nepal, including the Ministry of Home Affairs, its Disaster Policy Coordination and International Relations Section, and NDRRMA for their coordination and support throughout the process.
Our teams remain in Nepal, working alongside local partners and continuing distributions in affected areas.
The response continues. To learn more visit the link in our bio, or GEM.org to support this mission.
GEM EU & Asia continues to scale its humanitarian response in Nepal following the devastating flash floods.
The first air shipment supporting GEM’s response has now arrived in Nepal, carrying an additional GEM Family Necessity Kits with the support of Airlink, adding to the assistance already being delivered by our teams on the ground.
The kits will now be distributed across flood-affected communities, providing families with $144,000 in essential supplies as this humanitarian recovery continues.
We are grateful to @airlinkflight for supporting the air transport of this shipment to Nepal, the Nepal Peace Scouts and the Government of Nepal, including the Ministry of Home Affairs, its Disaster Policy Coordination and International Relations Section, and NDRRMA for their coordination and support throughout the process.
Our teams remain in Nepal, working alongside local partners and continuing distributions in affected areas.
The response continues. To learn more visit the link in our bio, or GEM.org to support this mission.
...
The Big Island is still experiencing periods of heavy rain, particularly across the southeastern and windward portions of the island. Trailing bands of moisture from Nolo could continue to produce additional rainfall and localized flooding as the storm slowly moves away. Gusty winds also remain possible, with some areas of the Big Island potentially experiencing gusts approaching 55 mph.
Dangerous surf also remains a concern. High Surf Advisories are in effect for east and southeast-facing shores of the Big Island, Maui and Molokaʻi, as well as east-facing shores of Oʻahu and Kauaʻi. Surf is expected to begin gradually diminishing Sunday as Nolo moves farther west.
While the change in Nolo’s track is welcome news for Hawaiʻi, we are not completely out of the woods yet. Strong and gusty trade winds will continue, and residents should remain alert for additional rain, localized flooding, hazardous surf and rapidly changing conditions.
GEM Hawaiʻi Pacific teams remain prepositioned and ready to respond should any communities require assistance. After several storms have impacted Hawaiʻi this season, our teams continue to monitor conditions across the islands and stand ready to mobilize wherever help is needed.
Please continue to follow guidance from local and state officials and monitor official weather alerts.
To learn more about GEM Hawaiʻi Pacific and support our ongoing disaster response efforts, visit the link in our bio or GEM.org.
#HurricaneNolo #Hawaii #GEMmissions #GEMHawaii #DisasterResponse
The Big Island is still experiencing periods of heavy rain, particularly across the southeastern and windward portions of the island. Trailing bands of moisture from Nolo could continue to produce additional rainfall and localized flooding as the storm slowly moves away. Gusty winds also remain possible, with some areas of the Big Island potentially experiencing gusts approaching 55 mph.
Dangerous surf also remains a concern. High Surf Advisories are in effect for east and southeast-facing shores of the Big Island, Maui and Molokaʻi, as well as east-facing shores of Oʻahu and Kauaʻi. Surf is expected to begin gradually diminishing Sunday as Nolo moves farther west.
While the change in Nolo’s track is welcome news for Hawaiʻi, we are not completely out of the woods yet. Strong and gusty trade winds will continue, and residents should remain alert for additional rain, localized flooding, hazardous surf and rapidly changing conditions.
GEM Hawaiʻi Pacific teams remain prepositioned and ready to respond should any communities require assistance. After several storms have impacted Hawaiʻi this season, our teams continue to monitor conditions across the islands and stand ready to mobilize wherever help is needed.
Please continue to follow guidance from local and state officials and monitor official weather alerts.
To learn more about GEM Hawaiʻi Pacific and support our ongoing disaster response efforts, visit the link in our bio or GEM.org.
#HurricaneNolo #Hawaii #GEMmissions #GEMHawaii #DisasterResponse
...
Today marks two years since #HurricaneHelene made landfall in #Florida as a Category 4 storm, devastating communities across Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas, Tennessee, Virginia and beyond.
GEM responded immediately, establishing operations throughout Florida and North Carolina, while reaching rural and cut-off communities by vehicle and helicopter.
Two years later, here is some of what this response accomplished:
* 37,000+ people supported with humanitarian aid across North Carolina and Florida
* 65 full-size semi-truck loads of aid delivered and distributed
* 120+ Starlink devices delivered through GEM and partners
* 50+ helicopter deliveries and/or evacuations
* 189 people provided free short-term accommodations through Airbnb.org
* 150+ people provided free long-term housing assistance
* $453,000+ in housing assistance supporting 88 households, including rental assistance and 19 FEMA trailers
* $700,000 in grants provided to 121 small businesses, artisans and farmers
Two years later, we remember the communities forever changed by Helene and remain grateful to every donor, partner, volunteer, first responder and GEM team member who helped turn immediate relief into long-term recovery. #davidandnicoletepper
Today marks two years since #HurricaneHelene made landfall in #Florida as a Category 4 storm, devastating communities across Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas, Tennessee, Virginia and beyond.
GEM responded immediately, establishing operations throughout Florida and North Carolina, while reaching rural and cut-off communities by vehicle and helicopter.
Two years later, here is some of what this response accomplished:
* 37,000+ people supported with humanitarian aid across North Carolina and Florida
* 65 full-size semi-truck loads of aid delivered and distributed
* 120+ Starlink devices delivered through GEM and partners
* 50+ helicopter deliveries and/or evacuations
* 189 people provided free short-term accommodations through Airbnb.org
* 150+ people provided free long-term housing assistance
* $453,000+ in housing assistance supporting 88 households, including rental assistance and 19 FEMA trailers
* $700,000 in grants provided to 121 small businesses, artisans and farmers
Two years later, we remember the communities forever changed by Helene and remain grateful to every donor, partner, volunteer, first responder and GEM team member who helped turn immediate relief into long-term recovery. #davidandnicoletepper
...
HAWAIʻI — HURRICANE NOLO UPDATE
GEM Hawaiʻi Pacific is closely monitoring Hurricane Nolo as the powerful storm continues to strengthen south of the Hawaiian Islands and conditions begin to deteriorate across portions of the state.
Nolo has strengthened into a Category 2 hurricane with sustained winds near 105 mph as it moves slowly north-northeast toward Hawaiʻi. The Big Island is currently under a Tropical Storm Warning and Hurricane Watch, with tropical storm conditions expected and hurricane-force conditions remaining possible. Portions of Maui County are also under a Tropical Storm Watch.
The greatest concern remains the potential for extreme rainfall and life-threatening flooding. Forecasters warn that the eastern and southern portions of Hawaiʻi Island could experience catastrophic flash flooding and mudslides, while Maui and other islands could also see significant rainfall, flooding, strong winds and dangerous surf as Nolo passes south of the state.
GEM Hawaiʻi Pacific teams are prepositioned and ready to respond. Our teams continue to coordinate and prepare resources so we can rapidly mobilize assistance to communities impacted by the storm.
We urge everyone across Hawaiʻi to take this storm seriously, remain prepared, follow instructions from local and state emergency officials, and continue monitoring official weather alerts as Nolo approaches.
GEM will continue monitoring conditions across the islands and will provide updates as the situation develops.
To learn more about GEM’s Hawaiʻi operations, please visit the link in our bio or GEM.org.
#HurricaneNolo #Hawaii #GEMmissions #DisasterResponse #HawaiiPacific
HAWAIʻI — HURRICANE NOLO UPDATE
GEM Hawaiʻi Pacific is closely monitoring Hurricane Nolo as the powerful storm continues to strengthen south of the Hawaiian Islands and conditions begin to deteriorate across portions of the state.
Nolo has strengthened into a Category 2 hurricane with sustained winds near 105 mph as it moves slowly north-northeast toward Hawaiʻi. The Big Island is currently under a Tropical Storm Warning and Hurricane Watch, with tropical storm conditions expected and hurricane-force conditions remaining possible. Portions of Maui County are also under a Tropical Storm Watch.
The greatest concern remains the potential for extreme rainfall and life-threatening flooding. Forecasters warn that the eastern and southern portions of Hawaiʻi Island could experience catastrophic flash flooding and mudslides, while Maui and other islands could also see significant rainfall, flooding, strong winds and dangerous surf as Nolo passes south of the state.
GEM Hawaiʻi Pacific teams are prepositioned and ready to respond. Our teams continue to coordinate and prepare resources so we can rapidly mobilize assistance to communities impacted by the storm.
We urge everyone across Hawaiʻi to take this storm seriously, remain prepared, follow instructions from local and state emergency officials, and continue monitoring official weather alerts as Nolo approaches.
GEM will continue monitoring conditions across the islands and will provide updates as the situation develops.
To learn more about GEM’s Hawaiʻi operations, please visit the link in our bio or GEM.org.
#HurricaneNolo #Hawaii #GEMmissions #DisasterResponse #HawaiiPacific
...
First Day of School for GEM Haiti Students 🇭🇹📚
A new school year means new beginnings, new opportunities, and another step toward a brighter future for our students in Haiti.
For 15 Years, Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) has remained committed to supporting education throughout Haiti. We believe education is one of the most powerful tools for creating lasting change, opening doors to opportunity, building confidence, and strengthening communities for generations to come.
Working alongside local educators, GEM supports students from elementary school through university, helping remove the financial and logistical barriers that can stand between a child and a the opportunity for an education.
Our GEM Haiti education, medical, and empowerment programs provide support including:
• School registration and tuition
• Uniforms and school supplies
• Daily lunches
• Transportation and logistics
• Medical care
• Field trips and enrichment opportunities
• After-school care
• Private tutoring
• English-language classes
The impact reaches far beyond the classroom. Every student given the opportunity to learn carries that knowledge, ambition, and possibility back into their family and community.
As our students return to their classrooms, we celebrate more than the first day of school. We celebrate their dreams, their determination, and the futures they are working to build.
Here’s to a wonderful new school year for our GEM Haiti students. 🇭🇹To learn more about about GEM Programs and our mission work in Haiti, visit: www.GEM.org
First Day of School for GEM Haiti Students 🇭🇹📚
A new school year means new beginnings, new opportunities, and another step toward a brighter future for our students in Haiti.
For 15 Years, Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) has remained committed to supporting education throughout Haiti. We believe education is one of the most powerful tools for creating lasting change, opening doors to opportunity, building confidence, and strengthening communities for generations to come.
Working alongside local educators, GEM supports students from elementary school through university, helping remove the financial and logistical barriers that can stand between a child and a the opportunity for an education.
Our GEM Haiti education, medical, and empowerment programs provide support including:
• School registration and tuition
• Uniforms and school supplies
• Daily lunches
• Transportation and logistics
• Medical care
• Field trips and enrichment opportunities
• After-school care
• Private tutoring
• English-language classes
The impact reaches far beyond the classroom. Every student given the opportunity to learn carries that knowledge, ambition, and possibility back into their family and community.
As our students return to their classrooms, we celebrate more than the first day of school. We celebrate their dreams, their determination, and the futures they are working to build.
Here’s to a wonderful new school year for our GEM Haiti students. 🇭🇹To learn more about about GEM Programs and our mission work in Haiti, visit: www.GEM.org
...
Danielle Dreis has dedicated her career to helping communities recover from disaster, combining strategic leadership with a deep commitment to serving survivors.
Her connection to Global Empowerment Mission began following the 2010 Haiti earthquake, where she met GEM Founder Michael Capponi while working in humanitarian response. She later joined GEM directly, supporting disaster missions in Haiti, Puerto Rico, the Bahamas, Bolivia, and beyond.
Of Hawaiian heritage, Danielle was raised in Spokane, Washington, while maintaining deep family ties to Hawaiʻi throughout her life. Following the devastating Maui wildfires in 2023, she took on leadership of GEM’s Hawaiʻi operations, bringing together years of global disaster-response experience with a community deeply personal to her.
Today, as Executive Director of GEM Hawaiʻi-Pacific, Danielle oversees emergency response and long-term recovery initiatives across the region, including housing, disaster case management, direct assistance, and community recovery.
Working alongside government, nonprofit, philanthropic, and private-sector partners, Danielle remains focused on one mission: helping disaster-impacted communities move from crisis toward lasting recovery and resilience. @danielle.dreis @globalempowermentmissionhawaii
Danielle Dreis has dedicated her career to helping communities recover from disaster, combining strategic leadership with a deep commitment to serving survivors.
Her connection to Global Empowerment Mission began following the 2010 Haiti earthquake, where she met GEM Founder Michael Capponi while working in humanitarian response. She later joined GEM directly, supporting disaster missions in Haiti, Puerto Rico, the Bahamas, Bolivia, and beyond.
Of Hawaiian heritage, Danielle was raised in Spokane, Washington, while maintaining deep family ties to Hawaiʻi throughout her life. Following the devastating Maui wildfires in 2023, she took on leadership of GEM’s Hawaiʻi operations, bringing together years of global disaster-response experience with a community deeply personal to her.
Today, as Executive Director of GEM Hawaiʻi-Pacific, Danielle oversees emergency response and long-term recovery initiatives across the region, including housing, disaster case management, direct assistance, and community recovery.
Working alongside government, nonprofit, philanthropic, and private-sector partners, Danielle remains focused on one mission: helping disaster-impacted communities move from crisis toward lasting recovery and resilience. @danielle.dreis @globalempowermentmissionhawaii
...








Our main objectives are to deliver the most amount of aid, to the most amount of people in need, in the shortest amount of time and with the least amount of costs to our donors. This also applies to our rebuilding efforts.
Founder Michael Capponi
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Global Empowerment Mission
1850 NW 84TH AVE, SUITE 100 DORAL FL 33126
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Today, GEM has one of the highest dollar vs impact ratios across all disaster relief organizations, and is committed to disrupting disaster relief with a complete 180-degree response. We solve complex problems efficiently with innovative solutions, through smart partnerships, globally.