Selfless Couple Dedicates Wedding Reception to Be Like Brit Organization, Supporting Haiti Relief

As I write this, The Wedding of The Century is just 2 weeks away.  No, this isn't a story about famous celebrities supporting Haiti Relief after the devastating earthquake in 2010. This is a story about two incredible people joining in matrimony this coming New Year's Eve. Why are we writing about this on our real estate blog?  The bride is our super special broker, Stacey Alcorn. She and her husband-to-be, Jay McHugh, are the most generous, encouraging people you'll ever meet. They own numerous successful companies, including RE/MAX Franchises, Black Box Boutique, & MyLittleBlackBox.com.  Soon, Stacey will be releasing her new book REACH!, written with my business partner Ann Marie DuRoss & Christie Guthrie.  I could go on and on about their successes, but I won't.  I want to share with you how beautiful these two souls are and how you can overcome tragedy by giving back.

Stacey & Jay were not the least bit concerned with throwing a huge over-the-top party for themselves. Instead, they have dedicated their wedding reception to The Be Like Brit Organization. Britney Gengel was a beautiful young woman who went to Haiti in 2010 to work with an Aide Group. Minutes before the devastating earthquake on January 12, 2010, she texted her parents this message: "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." Those were her last words to her family. She was 8 days shy of her 20th birthday.

Britney Gengel

From heartbreak, Brit's parents, Len & Cherylann wrote a book "Heartache and Hope in Haiti". This book is incredibly inspiring. All proceeds from the book go to Brit's Orphanage. Stacey & Jay read the Gengel's story and had to meet them. They wanted to be part of helping them make their daughter's dream become a reality. They invited the Gengels to our office meeting and instantly everyone in the room was touched and engaged in the plight.

With the proceeds of the book, generous donations and Len's nearly 40 trips to Haiti, on January 5, 2013, The Gengel's were able to to fulfill their daughter's dream and opened a 19,000 Square Foot, Earthquake-Proof Orphanage. Today, they have 35 beautiful children to offer unconditional love, three meals a day and an incredible education. Len & Cherylann Gengel's wish is to be able to care for 66 children; 33 boys & 33 girls. Thirty-Three, to represent the number of days it took to find their precious angel, Britney. I assure you, their journey will not end there.  They hope to inspire a movement and a cause of doing the right thing.  Won't you do the right thing by offering a tax deductible donation to help Len & Cherylann bring in more children to care for into their lives?  Click here to donate and learn more.  You can make a one time donation, purchase the book or sponsor a child and help them become the future new leaders of Haiti!

The Children

The Orphanage

Stacey & Jay: We are inspired by you & your selfless acts of kindness & charity. Once again you have given us the opportunity to take part in something magical.  We are honored to be part of your wedding celebration!  Now, let's get this party started!!

Brit watches over her parents and brothers, Richie & Bernie, prepare for Christmas