Today I just want to share from my heart. It’s probably going to be more like rambling. But these thoughts are rolling around in my head and need to be expressed.
“Would you take checks to the bank for me?” Back in 2008, when my daughter decided to create a non-profit because she was heading to Haiti for a few years, she asked me this simple question. Parents help their children. Of course, I said yes!
It was just a simple yes to a simple question. But it was the beginning of something I would never have imagined. I didn’t know it would lead to developing a sales operation resulting in the need for a childcare for parents, then creating a preschool and elementary school. I had no idea it would lead to developing a job skills training.
Last spring, I “interviewed” each Apparent Project staff member. They shared some of their hopes & dreams, and the fact that they were happy being part of Apparent Project. Then in June, I held up my cell phone to video them, asking them to say whatever they wanted to say about Apparent Project. I had no idea what they said! Reading the video script translations was such a blessing! It touched my heart!
When I began working with our Haitian staff years ago, I had no idea that the result would be a group of people who feel like they belong! I didn’t know that they would consider AP a “second family!” Or that they would feel significant, knowing that they were valued as a person. And that it would be a fun place to be! I remember one person who was being interviewed for a teaching position. He wanted to know what “benefits” we have! The response was that we are a family! We work together & take care of each other. It’s true! And it is of great value!
All people want to belong… to be noticed, to be significant & valued. We all want family, friends, a place to feel at home. We want purpose. I’m no different. You’re no different. It’s wonderful that Apparent Project is a place where our staff feels like family, like we all belong!
I just said “Yes, I’ll take checks to the bank for you!” I didn’t know it was also a “yes!” to God.
The journey hasn’t been without pain, it has been costly in many ways, but the blessings far outweigh the cost! Watching our Haitian friends develop new skills, become a family, and have fun together! What a gift! To be able to affirm & validate, to bring joy & hope! What an opportunity!
I’m so grateful that I said yes! And I thank each of you who have also said yes!
We are continuing our campaign to introduce our Haitian staff with the goal of bringing financial stability.
We’ve made progress! For those of you who have said yes to this opportunity to give… Thank you!
We appreciate your help!
I’ll be sharing another Haiti update by next weekend. The crisis is ongoing, but the Haitians are resilient!
#34-400 For those of you who would like to say yes!
The opportunity is still available!
Together… you & your friends could support an AP Haiti staff member!
34 salaries at $400/month. It’s not too hard.
34 people or 34 groups or 34 organizations… each providing $400/month
Join the family!
https://apparentproject.kindful.com/?campaign=1088345
