Why 'Better Together'?

 I am thrilled to be returning to Haïti this coming March.  Haitians are dear to my heart and I have been blessed to have them as a part of my life for the last 5 years.  Although a trip to Haïti for a visit and update on our program through Freddylink is always welcomed, this particular trip is extra special.  As I stood in a beautiful new youth facility just outside of Hinche in 2013 I felt God whisper to my heart the concept for this trip.  Through child sponsorship World Vision focuses on raising the youth to be the leaders in their communities.  When I have visited our particular project the emphasis on the youth leadership is astounding.  Young people are articulate and confident as they express their hopes and dreams for their communities and themselves.  We have much to learn from them and this particular day I felt that God was reminding me not to forget our own.  So often we can underestimate our youth, assuming they are lethargic and uninterested.  I came home with a heart to develop young leaders in our church and community.  As God has directed, Camp LEAD, a week long day camp for young leaders age 9-13 was birthed followed by a monthly meeting throughout the year focusing on discipleship and leadership.  We have been overwhelmed by the engagement of and leadership within these young people just waiting for the bar to be raised.

So it is with great excitement that we are planning a youth and family engagement trip with some of these same young people and their family members.  Together we will partner with some of the Haitian young leaders from the project we support, build relationships and carry out children’s programming similar in style to Vacation Bible School for the young children in the area.  I count it such a privilege to be able to witness the change and to see the lasting effect this trip will have not only on the individuals as young leaders but on the trip participants as family units as well. I believe so wholeheartedly in this I am pleased to bring my own daughter Zoë with me this time.  Haïti has been a significant part of her life and I look forward to seeing it come alive for her.  Your support and love is immeasurable, thank you!