HAITI — Vero Beach City Councilman Brian Heady isn’t concerned with Hurricane Irene while working in Haiti. The councilman is working with an organization called Building Goodness to construct a medical clinic complex on the island.
“Having survived and rebuilt in Vero Beach after the hurricanes, it is gratifying to have the opportunity to help others in need,” Heady said via email. “The difference between them and us is we had the talent, and ability to recover. They cannot recover without help.”
Heady is expected to be in Haiti for one week, heading back to Vero Beach this weekend.
He said he is “not all that concerned” about Hurricane Irene, which is expected to move north of Haiti this morning. The guest house he and his group are staying in is secure, he said.
The National Hurricane Center shows a Hurricane Watch in effect for the north coast of the country from Le Mole St. Nicholas east to the Dominican Republic. A Hurricane Warning has been issued for the north coast of the Dominican Republic from the Haiti border east to Cabo Engano, the Turks and Caicos Islands, and southeastern and central Bahamas.
Heady is no stranger to Haiti, which suffered a massive earthquake last year. He has gone to the country before helping to rebuild.
“They need and appreciate the help,” Heady said.
This is Heady’s second year working with Building Goodness, though he has family members who have worked with the organization for several years.
He said the organization is looking for more volunteers to continue its work. Those who can’t volunteer could sponsor a volunteer or donate.
About the Building Goodness Foundation
The Building Goodness Foundation brings together volunteers from every part of the construction industry to design and build structures for communities in need. Together with partners, donations of time, money, materials, and expertise are used to build clinics, schools, community centers, and specialized housing for those who need them most – both in the U.S. and around the world.
For more information about the Building Goodness Foundation, visit www.BuildingGoodness.org.
