Supporters of Haiti Partners gathered with the organization’s American and Haitian staff members at a Stories of Gratitude luncheon last Tuesday at The Club at Pointe West. Haiti Partners co-directors John Engle, who alternates his time between Vero Beach and Haiti, and Kent Annan, who resides here, used the occasion to thank their core donor base while sharing four “Stories of Gratitude” relating to their mission to “help Haitians change Haiti through education.”
Haitian program coordinator Benaja Antoine spoke enthusiastically about Esther, a teacher at the Haiti Partners Children’s Academy.
“She’s one of the strongest persons that I know,” said Antoine, noting that she must walk one hour each way from her home to school and back. “She is a teacher who is passionate about her job. She is always asking, ‘What is the best approach?’ especially with those who are hyperactive, who are challenging for the teachers.”
He said children are engaged and learning as a result of the innovative methods that have been implemented, which will in turn equate to their having a better future.
Through a video, they told the story of Erwin, a young leader transformed through the Haiti Partners Micah Scholar program, who is now inspiring others. More than 200,000 Haitian youngsters are children living with other families because their own parents cannot support them and they are often exploited as little more than slaves. Erwin said that one woman was so moved by a Bible studies class she led that the woman liberated just such a girl living in her household.
Engle spoke about Loudechica, a little girl full of energy who loves to sing and dance. “I have the privilege of seeing her almost every day and witness seeing her grow up in a joyful environment. We’re having the opportunity right now to shape culture within a Haitian institution,” said Engle, noting the work is being done in a poor, rural community; one with no electricity and very little development.
“The community is transforming before us,” said Engle, noting that parents are also learning life skills as they volunteer at the school. “We’re having the opportunity to create a culture, create a path for these children. In a sense to create the type of model school environment that we believe is possible. We have so many things that are happening now.”
Enel Angervil spoke about the work being done with Haitian churches. From July to December, 44 Micah scholars worked with 16 churches with a focus on children’s rights. While the response was initially hesitant, church leaders eventually worked together on an awareness event. It had such an impact, other organizations now also want to collaborate with Haiti Partners. Angervil said he has seen a big change in the lives of students in the program as they continue to transform their community by example.
