Our Story

Haitian Roots
in Pennsylvania Soil

Joseph Altenor was 19 when he left Haiti. The year was 1984 and the time had come for him to leave his home in search of a brighter horizons. Altenor spent time in New York, and Florida, but, in 1989, he settled in Sharon, Pennsylvania, nestled along the Shenango River. Over the years, Joseph got married, raised a family, and worked in manufacturing. He had established himself well into the embodiment of the American dream.

In 2010, after a magnitude 7 Earthquake struck Haiti. Joseph, now a symbol of Haitian resilience in Sharon, was called upon to visit Case Elementary School. As he stepped in, he was met with an overwhelming sight: the young students had rallied together, raising an astonishing $10,000 for earthquake relief.

Unfiltered Compassion

As he stood in the heart of Case Elementary, amidst a sea of tiny faces holding the Haitian flag, something stirred deep within him. It wasn't just about the generous fundraiser the students had organized; it was about the pure, undiluted humanity they had displayed. The kind that doesn't see borders or socio-economic statuses, but just another human in need.

Children possess a clarity untouched by the jaded perspectives of adulthood. Unlike many adults, who are molded by a sometimes disjointed worldview, children view their peers across borders simply as fellow children. They see with the heart, noticing what truly matters, rather than what they're conditioned to perceive. If children can naturally unite in compassion and understanding, surely adults can learn to do the same.

A Call to Serve

By this point in time, Joseph and his wife, Kristine, had woven a tapestry of a life rich in accomplishments and comfort. Kristine, with a three-decade-long distinguished career in finance, and Joseph, with his years of experience in manufacturing industry, both stood at the pinnacle of professional stability. Yet, there was a call they couldn't ignore — a call to service that tugged at their hearts, urging them to trade certainty for purpose, and comfort for challenge.

In a profound leap of faith, they chose to leave behind the world they knew and embraced the unpredictable path of entrepreneurship. United by a shared vision and an unyielding passion to make a difference, they founded the Haitian Sensation Restaurant and Coffee Shop in 2014.

From Sensation to Service

Kristine and Joseph are both heartfelt culinary artists, each bringing unique flavors and experiences to the table. Kristine's "Sweet Sensations" desserts have become the talk of the town. Her skill in creating delectable cakes, cupcakes, and cookies — symbolizes the unifying comfort only food crafted with passion can provide.

Joseph's culinary creations are a testament to the vibrant culture of Haiti. Each dish, infused with authentic flavors and traditional spices, transports patrons to the sun-soaked streets of his homeland. His ability to blend complex flavors in dishes, both hearty and refreshing, has turned the restaurant into a cherished venue. Joseph's Haitian cuisine, rich with tradition and cooked with compassion, is not just food — it's an experience of heritage, warmth, and celebration.

Inspired by the students' gesture, Joseph and Kristine turned Haitian Sensation into more than just a restaurant. They established a non-profit to aid Haiti and unify communities. With their restaurant family and local churches onboard, every interaction became a heartfelt conversation about Haiti's needs, deeply rooted in community spirit.

Our Family of Dedicated Staff

At Haitian Sensation, our staff is our family. Each member makes our mission possible by contributing to an atmosphere of warmth and genuine hospitality. Their dedication is palpable, ensuring every guest feels at home. This invaluable crew's unity and relentless spirit are the restaurant's heartbeat, making every meal served a testament to their solidarity and passion.

Uniting Through Purpose

Our mission trips became the very heart of what we do. Comprising our devoted Haitian Sensation staff, faithful local church members, and engaged community residents, we united in a shared purpose. As we reach out to communities in Haiti, we are deeply touched by the resilience and spirit of its people.

We are more than just volunteers; we are a tight-knit family, bound by a shared purpose. Every trip to Haiti isn't a mere visit; it's a return home, where every face holds a story and every hand, a promise. Together, we navigate this journey, with our restaurant staff, church members, and local residents walking side by side.

Each mission trip invigorates our collective spirit, deepens our commitment, and fosters an even more profound bond among us. As we engage with the Haitian community, every interaction reshapes our perspective, continually reminding us of the immense power of unity and shared purpose.

We are shaping a world beyond borders.

A Mission Worth Fulfilling

What started as a student fundraiser has blossomed into a fervent mission. Under the collective banner of our organization, our focus is not on a singular vision, but on the collective dreams and hopes of everyone involved. From the children of Case Elementary to the numerous volunteers, this mission is a testament to what we can achieve when unified by a cause. Our journey has been incredible, and as we look ahead, we are reminded every day that even the mightiest of waves begin with the smallest of ripples.

Joining Hands for a Greater Good

Haitian Sensation Mission is about what we can achieve together. Your involvement can amplify our efforts, turning small gestures into grand impacts. Every donation made intertwines your story with ours. With each new chapter we write, we are building a testament to the power of community, collaboration, and heart.

Our Story is Incomplete Without You