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Our Story: Haiti to Central Florida
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Our story begins in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. In 1955, educators Gerard and Anne Marie Delerme had a dream to create a school for masses of at-risk youth that did not have access to a quality and affordable education. With the partnership of Brother Polycarpe, a local Catholic Bishop, the school was born and named Ecole Frere Polycarpe. As intended, the school granted children educational opportunities that helped them unearth their potential and escape generational cycles of poverty. Thousands of students received preparation assistance to pass their state examinations and went on to receive education credentials. Patrick Delerme, the son of the school’s founders, was deeply moved by his parents’ love for service and education. As an adult, Patrick adopted his four year old nephew, Paul who suffered trauma from losing both of his parents. At an early age, Paul was diagnosed with ADHD. Paul struggled to reach typical milestones and navigate everyday routines.
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As Patrick sought out professional guidance and mental health services for Paul, they encountered even more challenges. Patrick realized that there weren’t helpful spaces designed for educating and supporting Caribbean families with their mental health needs. In honor of his parents and Paul’s journey, Patrick and his wife, Penny founded Polycarpe, Inc. in 1999. Polycarpe began promoting mental health awareness at events organized by Caribbean leaders throughout Orange County, Florida. The organization grew quickly in its impact as it provided underserved communities access to mental health resources. A new generation of Caribbean families became empowered to practice stress management tools, as well as methods to improve their parenting practices and interpersonal relationships. With an achievement of 20 years of service, Polycarpe continues to labor for Caribbean families and other communities throughout the greater Orlando area today.
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COVID-19 Information: Polycarpe, Inc. continues to operate in full compliance with CDC guidelines to stop the spread of COVID-19. We require social distancing, faces masks, hand washing, and the use of hand sanitizer for all in person interactions. We also offer Telehealth therapy sessions and virtual events for the safety of our clients and staff.
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Polycarpe, Inc.
407.792.5896 121 S. Orange Ave Suite 1500 Orlando, FL 32801 |