Haynes’ commitment to the women and children of the Democratic Republic of Congo came after her second visit to the city of Goma in 2012. After spending a few days with women who were waiting or healing from fistula surgery at HEAL Africa Hospital, feeling completely helpless, she vowed to use her talents to do “something” to help them.
She surrendered to this vow and began creating art that would raise the funds needed to empower local leaders and help the most vulnerable women and children.
Her first art piece for this initiative was the Wall of Courage, an 80-panel piece featuring orphan Congolese children.
Wall of Courage has toured North America from Kingston, Ontario to Beverly Hills, California, and parts in between. All the while continuing to raise money for various projects.