Words In Action

At the heart of our giving story is an unshakeable belief in the limitless potential of the Haitian people, particularly the children. The brilliance and outlook of children is a deep source of inspiration. We believe the greatest way to empower a community is through sustainable collaboration focusing on health and education. Most of our charitable efforts are invested in these areas, giving our time, talents, and funds. What is less common is the path my husband Claude took, and the way it leads him home to help his village. Claude grew up in a remote village in the mountains of Haiti. This community remains without plumbing or electricity, with one dirt road that passes through. It was also without local healthcare services except the community health workers sent by the Baptist Haiti Mission. And so, having witnessed unnecessary death of those who could not access simple health care, and in the wake of the earthquake devastation, Claude started a clinic in a loaned building, and created a charitable foundation called Words in Action Haiti. He has managed our small clinic since, as a medical resident and now a doctor, bringing teams of volunteer doctors and overseeing Haitian nurses who provide ongoing services. recently we, along with a handful of sympathizers, have been focused on the construction of a permanent clinic which is near completion. We hope the clinic will eventually also host workshops in areas of nutrition, family planning, agriculture and microfinance, as well as a sustainable team of local healthcare workers. While his village is lacking in infrastructure, it is rich with the resilience of its people, and the brilliance of its children. But formal education is not free and many parents cannot afford to pay tuition, particularly for high school. And so Claude began paying for tuition for children who would otherwise go without. Through the years we have met people who have also wanted to help, and so we pair their sharing with children in need. This effort is being formalized through a sponsorship program by the WIA Haiti foundation. Personally, Claude always cherishes the moments speaking and working with local children. He consistently returns to his elementary school, reminding the students of their endless abilities and their prospects if they continue to work hard in school. During his November trip, he taught third grade students anatomy, which further affirmed his belief in their aptitude and abilities. Their eagerness and spirit serve as a constant inspiration. Our giving story is not a one time event, but an all day, everyday consideration of "what can I do for others." It is an ongoing labor of love for Haiti and a fervent hope that we might empower its brighter future. It is founded in the firm beliefs that every life is valuable, that education is the surest path out of poverty, and that every child can achieve excellence if given the opportunity. It is renewed by a deep sense of gratitude for the gifts we have received in our lives, and the knowledge that we can all empower another. We invite others to join us on this journey of giving. Please visit www.wiahaiti.org to learn more.