The Local Changemakers Podcast continues its mission of highlighting inspiring individuals making a difference. In this episode, host Miguelito Jerome sits down with Viles Dorsainvil, a Haitian migrant and community leader in Springfield, Ohio, to discuss his journey, his faith, and his tireless work advocating for Haitian immigrants and the broader community.
A Journey Rooted in Faith and Service
Viles Dorsainvil was born in Gros-Morne, Haiti, and raised with a strong sense of collective responsibility. He was deeply involved in his local community and church, where he developed a passion for leadership and social justice.
His journey led him to the United States, where he settled in Springfield, Ohio. As a Haitian immigrant, Viles faced the challenge of adapting to a new culture, a different language, and the struggles of navigating life in a new country. But rather than feeling discouraged, he used these experiences to empower others facing similar challenges.
“For many immigrants, adapting to life in the U.S. is difficult. The language, the system, the way things work—it’s all different from Haiti. But with the right guidance, faith, and determination, we can build a strong future here.”
His Christian faith has been a major influence in his life. Through his involvement in the church, he found spiritual strength and a platform to serve others. Church, for him, is more than a place of worship—it’s a space for healing, guidance, and action.
Leading Through Community Advocacy
Recognizing the gaps in resources and support for Haitian immigrants, Viles took on the role of a community advocate. He became a key figure in helping newcomers integrate into Springfield by providing guidance on:
✔ Legal and Immigration Assistance
✔ Housing and Shelter Support
✔ Employment and Training Opportunities
✔ Cultural and Social Integration
One of his most impactful contributions is his work with Haitian Community Help and Support Center, an organization dedicated to assisting immigrants in navigating the complexities of life in the U.S. Through this initiative, he has helped countless individuals find stability, resources, and a sense of belonging.
“There are many people in our community who need guidance—not just Haitians, but immigrants from all backgrounds. They need help finding jobs, securing housing, understanding their rights… That’s why I do what I do.”
Challenges and Resilience: Springfield in the Spotlight
Springfield has been at the center of controversy and challenges regarding immigration, particularly with the Haitian community. In recent years, misinformation, anti-immigrant sentiment, and even bomb threats have created an environment of uncertainty and fear for many Haitian residents.
Viles reflects on this period of unrest:
“We saw so much hostility. Haitians were being blamed, and the situation escalated to the point where safety became a concern. But we didn’t back down. We stood up for our rights, we organized, and we worked to change the narrative.”
Despite these obstacles, Viles believes the Haitian community in Springfield has shown incredible resilience. He emphasizes the importance of education and civic engagement in fighting back against discrimination and ensuring the Haitian voice is heard in local discussions and policy decisions.
The Role of the Church in Haitian Immigrant Lives
For many Haitian immigrants, the church is a pillar of strength. However, Viles acknowledges that while the church provides emotional and spiritual support, it also has limitations when it comes to addressing urgent social and economic issues.
“Churches help people heal, but they should also be involved in real-world solutions—creating programs for job training, supporting families in need, and teaching practical skills for success in the U.S.”
He believes in a balance between faith and action, urging churches to become more engaged in community-building efforts.
Navigating Immigration Policies and the Threat of Deportation
With increasing immigration restrictions and deportation threats, Viles is actively working to educate the Haitian community about their rights and legal protections.
He warns about the dangers of misinformation and urges immigrants to:
✔ Understand their rights and legal status
✔ Avoid risky situations that could jeopardize their residency
✔ Seek legal support if faced with deportation
“Many people panic when they hear about immigration crackdowns, but knowledge is power. The more we understand our rights, the better we can protect ourselves.”
Viles works closely with legal experts and community organizations to provide accurate, up-to-date immigration information.
Empowering Future Leaders and Change-Makers
Viles believes the Haitian community must invest in leadership development to ensure long-term stability and success. He emphasizes the need for youth empowerment, calling on young Haitians to take active roles in advocacy, business, and local governance.
He also stresses the importance of economic independence for the Haitian community, highlighting opportunities in:
✔ Entrepreneurship and Business Development
✔ Skilled Trades and Transportation
✔ Education and Workforce Training
“We have to create our own opportunities. Haitians are hardworking, innovative people. If we invest in businesses, education, and leadership, we can shape our own future.”
Looking to the Future: A Call for Unity and Action
As Springfield’s Haitian community continues to grow, Viles sees both challenges and opportunities ahead. His vision is one of unity, resilience, and proactive engagement.
He calls on the community to:
- Stay informed about local policies and laws
- Get involved in civic activities and community leadership
- Support one another through mentorship and resource-sharing
- Educate the next generation to be future leaders
His message is clear:
“We are not just immigrants. We are builders, leaders, and contributors to this society. It’s time we take our place and shape our own destiny.”
Watch the Full Interview on YouTube
🎥 Don’t miss this powerful conversation with Viles Dorsainvil on the Local Changemakers Podcast. Hear firsthand about his journey, his mission, and his vision for the future of Haitians in Springfield and beyond.
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Motivational quotes from our conversation with Viles Dorsainvil:
1️⃣ “For many immigrants, adapting to life in the U.S. is difficult… but with the right guidance, faith, and determination, we can build a strong future here.”
2️⃣ “Churches help people heal, but they should also be involved in real-world solutions—creating programs for job training, supporting families in need, and teaching practical skills.”
3️⃣ “We are not just immigrants. We are builders, leaders, and contributors to this society. It’s time we take our place and shape our own destiny.”
4️⃣ “When challenges arise, we don’t back down—we organize, we educate, and we push forward.”
5️⃣ “Many people panic when they hear about immigration crackdowns, but knowledge is power. The more we understand our rights, the better we can protect ourselves.”
6️⃣ “True leadership is not about position, but about service—helping those who need it most and guiding them toward success.”
7️⃣ “Unity is our greatest strength. When we support each other, we grow together as a community.”
8️⃣ “We must create our own opportunities. Haitians are hardworking and innovative—if we invest in businesses, education, and leadership, we can shape our future.”
9️⃣ “Faith alone is not enough—we must also act. Change happens when we combine belief with action.”
🔟 “No matter where we go, Haiti is in our hearts. We carry our culture, our resilience, and our dreams with us everywhere.”
These quotes capture the spirit of leadership, faith, and empowerment that Viles Dorsainvil shared in our conversation. 💡✨
by Virginelle Jerome
