Through candlelight and the voice of a 12-year-old girl singing "Jesus Loves Me," the country of Haiti and it's people were lifted up on the quad of Duke University Thursday evening

Though the group was small -- only about 20 students, faculty and commuity members -- the message was strong. They want to send relief, both monetary and spiritually, to the developing country.

The Hope for Haiti Ministrities held a candlelight vigil to raise awareness for the hardships the country has experienced this past year. Six tropical storms and hurricanes hit the islands in less that four weeks. The natural disasters killed crops, destroyed homes and killed thousands of people.

Paulette Bekolo started the umbarella organization four years ago. Thursday night she said she was grateful to be here and bring awareness to Americans on the issues of Haiti.

"I love Haiti and it's people," Bekolo said. "I'm so happy to see so many caring about it too."

The non-profit organization also held a dinner and received donations that will be sent directly to Haiti for relief efforts.

NBC 17's Jennifer Turk was a guest emcee for Thursday's event.

Related Links

1. Hope For Haiti Ministries