Despite earthquakes and hurricanes, extreme poverty, cholera and political turmoil, the people of Haiti have a resilience and optimism that virtually defies all odds. It’s an attitude that resonates with supporters of Haiti Partners, an organization whose mission is to “help Haitians change Haiti through education.”
At a luncheon last Friday at Costa d’Este, Haiti Partners co-directors John Engle and Kent Annan thanked donors and shared “Stories of Gratitude” made possible by their generosity.
Annan remarked that 1,200 children are receiving a great education that would not otherwise be available to them, and another 30 Micah Scholars are attending seminaries and traveling the country seeking justice for “restavek” youngsters, ill-treated and exploited as servants.
“We feel so blessed to have this group of supporters here in Vero Beach; Vero Beach is our U.S. home,” said Engle.
Annan provided an update on progress after Hurricane Matthew’s damages, including that 40 homes were rebuilt or repaired; 120 goats were bought to replace those lost to the storm; two 800-gallon water tanks were installed at the school to provide water to that community for years ahead; and they are working with churches to establish savings and credit to develop business and livestock projects.
On the political front, Engle noted that a new Haitian president was inaugurated on Feb. 7, winning the election with support from a diverse sector of the population.
“I do have hope about the new president, cautiously optimistic, but my analysis of Haiti is that it’s taken centuries to get where it is today,” said Engle, adding that the education system has been stymied by years of slavery, colonialism, imperialism, the missionary movement and international development. “We are dealing with unbelievable amounts of untapped resources in the people. The people have unbelievable capability.”
Haiti Partners established their own Children’s Academy five years ago and also works with partner schools. “We’re creating this school-based community development model that is just inspiring,” said Engle.
Engle’s Haitian-born wife Merline reiterated appreciation for donors helping future generations of Haitians to get a good education and advance their country, sharing, “We want change and you are the change-makers. They’re going to do great things, be great people.”
After a recent visit to Haiti, Rev. David Johnson of the Community Church said he was struck by how “thoughtful and intentional” Haiti Partners and of the overwhelming sense of hope and joy at their academy. “Haiti Partners is growing a culture of young people and their parents, helping them to think differently about how life can be lived.”
Annan spoke movingly about Erwin, a young woman who graduated from the first class of 15 Micah Scholars and is now a passionate advocate for social justice. Despite threats to her life and her family members’ lives, Erwin persisted and ultimately rescued 50 children from an orphanage where they were being abused and exploited.
“Erwin gets the credit, but we got to be part of her journey. What a privilege; what an honor to work with them. It fills us with gratitude,” said Annan. “We get to support Erwin and other people like her, so that they can make a difference to fulfill the dreams they have for their country.”
Next up, Haiti Partners will host its annual Educate and Celebrate fundraiser, 5:30 p.m. March 3 at Northern Trust Bank, featuring food and wine pairings, and a live and silent auction of Haitian crafts and artwork.
For more information visit haitipartners.org.
