About us
Who We Are
Sakpase Connecticut, Inc. is a community-based, volunteer-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving the Haitian community in Connecticut and beyond. We exist to support, promote, celebrate, empower, and connect the Haitian community.
Our Purpose
Our purpose is to build a healthier Haitian community through relationships. We do this by:
- Enriching every generation. We offer programs for children, teens, seniors, and families.
- Bringing people together. We organize recreational, social, cultural, and educational activities that connect and empower our community.
- Celebrating our heritage. We promote Haitian cultural and social values among Haitians across Connecticut.
- Connecting people to help. We serve as a center that links Haitians with community resources and services.
- Working with others. We cooperate with Haitian and other nonprofit organizations and associations involved in charitable work.
- Growing through partnership. We welcome credible organizations to join with us and strengthen our programs and development.
What We Offer
All Sakpase services are free, including translation, notary public services, mental health support, and mentoring. https://www.sakpaseconnecticut.org/our-programs
Meet Our Team
Ricardo Francois
President
Riccardo is a Haitian-American Army veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom, a successful business owner, and a dedicated leader within Connecticut's Haitian community. Beyond business, Riccardo actively advocates for Haitian families and small businesses across the state, serving as a bridge between immigrant communities and local civic resources—proving that his commitment to service never ended with his military discharge.
Jean Amos Lys
Public Relations
Jean Amos Lys was shaped by the vibrant soil of Haiti and the wide horizons beyond its shores. He is a lifelong advocate for healing, hope, and transformation
Educated in Haiti and abroad, he walks the bridge between cultures — carrying the soul of a people who know how to rise.
As a Licensed Therapist and preacher, Jean Amos Lys has devoted his life to tending wounds, both visible and invisible, and to restoring what trauma tried to silence.
In pulpits, community settings, and counseling rooms, he speaks life into broken places—believing that dry bones can rise, broken things can heal, and hope is liberating.
He is committed to amplifying Haitian voices, fostering meaningful partnerships, and increasing awareness of the needs and contributions of Connecticut's Haitian community. His work is driven by a passion for advocacy, cultural pride, community empowerment, and building bridges that inspire unity and lasting change.
Sybelle Moise
Strategic Advisor
Sybelle Moise is a public-sector leader, strategic consultant, and community advocate with
experience in government affairs, economic development, nonprofit leadership, and
organizational strategy. She currently serves as an American Rescue Plan Act Manager for the
State of Connecticut, overseeing an $18 million public funding portfolio, and previously held
leadership roles with the City of Hartford.
Sybelle holds a master’s degree in Diplomacy and International Economics and is a recipient of
the Connecticut General Assembly’s 2025 Trailblazer for Equity Award. Drawing on her Haitian
heritage and commitment to community empowerment, she brings expertise in strategic
partnerships, public policy, resource development, and institutional growth to her role as Board
Advisor for SakPase.
Thamar Eugene
Community Engagement
Thamar is a dedicated community advocate and experienced professional with extensive knowledge in public administration, behavioral health, healthcare systems, and community-based program development. Thamar brings a wealth of expertise in organizational management, mental health services, substance abuse prevention, and community engagement.
With a strong background in program design, policy implementation, education, and training, Thamar is passionate about improving access to essential resources and empowering underserved communities. Additional expertise in cultural diversity, mental health treatment, and social services strengthens Thamar's commitment to promoting equity, wellness, and meaningful community change.
Thamar is committed to advancing the organization's mission of supporting, connecting, and empowering Haitian individuals and families throughout Connecticut while fostering a stronger, healthier, and more resilient Haitian community.