The Power of Partnerships

The Power of Partnerships

Posted December 31, 2011

Community, partnerships, friendship, collaboration:  Our goal has been to accompany the Haitian people as they work towards reversing the economic, social, and adverse health effects of environmental degradation. Our primary focus has been on higher education of Haiti's youth.  We believe the best way to help Haiti is to give youth the education they need, and are so ready to receive.  Our newest scholar, Esnel is studying medicine.  Though orphaned at a young age, Esnel has demonstrated admirable resolve in pursuing his dreams:

"For many years, Haiti has suffered from a lack of professionals in all disciplines.  In the medical field, this situation has worsened after the earthquake of January 12, 2010.  The country is unable to face up to the medical challenges resulting form an increase in the number of patients.   Many young Haitian doctors, soon after graduation leave the country seeking better job opportunities or better living conditions.  Meanwhile, patients are dying for lack of care.  Since my childhood, I have always dreamed of becoming a medical doctor.  I believe that God has called me to serve others in that capacity."

After his studies, Esnel plans to return to Haiti to put his acquired skills to the service of the community.  This is possible due to the generosity of you, our supporters.

We were fortunate in 2011 to be enriched by connections with other organizations working in Haiti.  Partnering with Sirona Cares, we provided funding for 100,000 trees for the Jatropha tree project.  This project will provide rural farmers with an income and a way out of poverty--without displacing food crops and while protecting the land from erosion. Working with Haiti Reconstruction, we provided a seed grant to develop a training center for the construction and distribution of TLUD biomass cook stoves, providing local employment and giving Haitian women a culturally acceptable alternative to conventional cook stoves negative impact on health and the environment.

We are really excited about continuing our work in 2012.  We are thrilled to have Raymond Laurent joining our board.  Raymond is an agronomist with over 30 years experience.  We have great initiatives to support more women farmers with training and tools.

We will expand our scholarship program, bringing new students and continuing to provide mentoring and support to our current scholars.

We have forged a powerful alliance with the Kylti Foundation and the Build Haiti Foundation.  We actively seek collaboration in developing projects to support Haitian communities.   We will provide funding for health programs for a medical clinic Build Haiti Foundation has constructed in northern Haiti.  This clinic will bring crucial medical care to students from a local school and their families.

We look forward to the promise of 2012.  We are humbled by your support.