the founder

Jeff Ponchillia

In 2013, Jeff Ponchillia had an experience that would forever change his life’s purpose. After traveling to Haiti and witnessing firsthand the dire conditions of the schools and orphanages there, he knew something had to be done. Jeff and his family began supporting multiple primary schools, an orphanage, and a children’s hospital to help hundreds of children across Haiti.

In addition to providing financial assistance, the Ponchillia’s brought supplies every time they visited, filling their suitcases with necessities like Pedialyte, formula, toys, and candy for the children. Moved by the significant need for education in Haiti, Jeff also started a scholarship program with the goal of empowering Haitian high schoolers to take charge of their futures and excel in their educational endeavors. Change the Stars was founded in 2017 to continue this critical work and help the children and youth of Haiti re-write their destinies.