Election in the oldest Haitian Community-based Non-Profit Organization in Tampa: Your Voice Matters

Tampa, FL. – The Haitian Community is calling to elect a new executive board for the Haitian Association Foundation of Tampa Bay (HAFTB).

Fadia Richardson, financial secretary of the executive board, encourages Haitians living in the Bay Area and nearby zones to cast their vote before March 28, 2026. HAFTB has officially announced the opening of the election on March 14.

The Haitian Association Foundation of Tampa Bay calls the Haitian community of Tampa Bay to elect a new executive board. This new board will lead one of the oldest community-based non-profit organizations in the region. HAFTB has served the Haitian community in Hillsborough County and nearby zones since May 18, 1986. Many community members see this election as an opportunity to strengthen the Haitian community. An opportunity to promote Haitian cultural heritage, educate youth, and provide needed resources to Haitians living in the Bay Area.

The current board outlines the opening positions: president, vice president, program director, correspondence secretary, treasurer, financial secretary, media/recruitment specialist, parliamentary secretary, and advisors. Two rules define the community member participation in the 2026 election for HAFTB offices. A community member can nominate a candidate. Also, as usual, community members are called to vote for a candidate for each seat.

According to a public notice, candidates must fill out the application for the HAFTB position. Return the filled form through email before the last date to apply, which is March 21. Also, all ballots are expected to be returned on March 28, 2026, through email to Mireille Elie, project director, mireilleelie@gmail.com, Fadia Richardson, fadiarichardson@gmail.com, and Edward Jean Pierre, Chaplain, edjanpie68@gmail.com. HAFTB leaders described the 2026 election as a direct way for members to get involved in the community. Also, a way to continue the long legacy of former leaders of the association. Dr. Linda Tavernier Almada was the last president of HAFTB. Charles McKensie, former vice-president, Abney Henderson, former culture arts coordinator, and Josette Toulme, former treasurer, completed the last executive board of directors. The association will publish the election results on March 28, 2026.