Britney Gengel
Britney Gengel was a beautiful, fearless , and compassionate 19 year old when she decided to travel with her college, Lynn University, to the country of Haiti. Upon arrival, Britney was overwhelmed by the devastating poverty visible everywhere, but the love she received from the children she met, despite their conditions, inspired her to send the following text to her mother:
"They love us so much and everyone is so happy. They love what they have and they work so hard to get nowhere, yet they are all so appreciative. I want to move here and start an orphanage myself." ~ Britney Gengel sent this text to her Mom on 1/12/2010
Making a Difference
NBC's Nightly News' Dr. Nancy Snyderman visited the Be Like Brit Orphanage
Sponsor a Child
We have 66 beautiful children living and thriving in our earthquake proof orphanage in Grand Goave, Haiti.
Visit Haiti
Our Britsionary Program is focused on team and community development, we have multiple opportunities available.
Orphanage
Shortly after sending the text, a catastrophic 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck Haiti . It’s impact killed an estimated 300,000 people , including Britney. Her family could not let her die in vain so in loving memory they started the Be Like Brit Foundation, Inc. Over the course of two years, a 19,000 sq. ft earthquake proof orphanage was built in Grand Goave, Haiti — the town where Brit was supposed to travel to the day after the earthquake.
Our Children
Today we have 33 girls and 33 boys living and thriving in the orphanage. The number 33 is symbolic of the 33 days Brit was missing in the rubble at The Hotel Montana. The majority of our children are true orphans or came from such horrific conditions that we couldn't say no. We are raising the next generation of leaders in Haiti. If you want to help our children succeed in life
Volunteer
Those who visit the orphanage to help we call Britsionarys. We offer a one week trip that focuses on building and rebuilding homes in the local community of Grand Goave. A Britsionary also spends time with the children working in enrichment programs right at the orphanage. If you would like to help Be Like Brit but are unable to go to Haiti, we would love for you to volunteer at our office in Massachusetts or at any of our events.
We Wrote a Book
Heartache and Hope in Haiti : The Britney Gengel Story was written by Len & Cherylann as a journey of the tragedy and triumph the Gengel family experienced back in 2010. In the book, Brit’s parents describe Brit, her trip, her family's experience , and the building of the orphanage. The book will make you cry, the book will make you laugh , and it will, with hope, inspire you to “Be Like Brit!!! ”
More InformationGuide to Giving
Their is multiple ways that you can help Be Like Brit to continue the compassion. If you are seeking alternative ways to contribute and need more information this page will give you all the details you need.
Upcoming Events
6th Annual Be Like Brit 5K Walk
Saturday, September 10th, 9am Elm Park, Worcester
Come join us for a fun day, we'll have a DJ and children's activities. After the walk be sure to stay with us for refreshments and food!
2016 Fall Gala
Saturday, November 12th 6-midnight DCU Center, Worcester MA 01608
Dance the night away with the World Premier Band at Worcester's DCU Center!
