Working for a Brighter (and Greener!) Future

In a country lacking the infrastructure and capacity to support a sanitation system, Louverture Cleary students prepare recyclables with a commitment to environmental stewardship.

With an education and a commitment to sharing their talents with others, a Louverture Cleary School (LCS) graduate is equipped with the tools to escape the threat of poverty AND be a good environmental steward of their country.

Long before your local superstore had bins designated for recycling, paper, and plastic waste, LCS students and Missionaries were sorting and repurposing waste, turning compost, and being a good environmental neighbor to the other residents of Santo 5, ensuring that no piece of trash ever left campus.

Salomon A. (left), LCS alumnus class of 1998 and partner at Haitian solar company Energy Central, installing solar panels with a technician on the roof of the Louverture Cleary School Radia Laboratory of Science and Technology.

LCS is also a trailblazer in using solar energy and remains a solar-powered school. Through being active participants in environmental stewardship while on campus, LCS students are constantly learning how caring for the environment benefits the world around them.

To celebrate Earth Day 2021, we are sharing what Louverturians over the years have had to say about being part of a green community...

"My favorite work on campus is to take care of the trees or plants, putting compost to them, and watering them. The importance of this work is based on the good care of the campus, which will make everyone appreciate nature more."

“I like the incinerator and the compost. The incinerator helps us remove our trash from LCS. The ash from the incinerator helps the compost. The compost helps the growing of the plants. These two environmental practices at LCS change our trash into treasures. In this way, and others, LCS makes gold for the community and the country."

“My favorite environmental practice at LCS is recycling, because I like when I am putting things in their assigned places and turning disorder into order. I don’t know of any other places in Haiti that do clean up, recycling, and management like at LCS, but hopefully there will be."

LCS Philo student (US 12th Grade + 1) Perkens L. turns compost at the school's Compost Center. LCS has a long history of composting for its environmental benefits. Says Perkens, "When we prepare compost and do it well, it becomes a very important substance for the plants, brings them nutrients, and helps them grow better to create a green world."

The Go Go Go Compost poem decorates the compost pile at Louverture Cleary School. The school has a long history of composting for its environmental benefits.

As an eco-friendly campus designed for positive social and environmental impact, LCS was and is a trailblazer in Haiti. Now, these green initiatives along with other sustainable technologies will be integral to each of the nine new schools of the Louverture Cleary Schools Network.

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“Keep In Touch” to receive periodic updates on our students, activities at Louverture Cleary School, and progress on the LCS Network. Together, we can build a bright and enduring future for Haiti.

It's National Volunteer Week!

Missionaries teach outside the classroom, too: students learn about plants and the environment as they develop the gardens on campus.

National Volunteer Week is a time to celebrate and thank those who volunteer their time, energy, and lives for others. Here at The Haitian Project, we are celebrating all those who serve in our community, with a spotlight on our many Missionaries (formerly called Volunteers) who have given a year or more to teach, live and serve at Louverture Cleary School in Haiti.

For over 25 years, The Haitian Project’s mission and charism have been lived out and exemplified at LCS outside of Port-au-Prince in Haiti by its vibrant community of Missionary teachers.

Missionaries of all ages have brought stability in chaotic times, determination in challenging tasks, and joy in daily life while embracing and participating in the greater Louverture Cleary School community.

Life of the Missionary Community includes:

• Living in community with other Missionaries and Haitian staff members
  

• Teaching classes, such as English, religion, and economics
  

• Leading extracurriculars such as sports and clubs, giving the chance for students to be enriched both in and out of the classroom
  

• Participating in the physical development and upkeep of the campus
  

• Participating in daily community prayer and weekly Mass

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Ever felt called to missionary service? Know someone who would be a good fit for our community in Haiti?

Email [email protected] for more information on being a Missionary at Louverture Cleary School. Apply for the program here:

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“Keep In Touch” to receive periodic updates on our students, activities at Louverture Cleary School, and progress on the LCS Network. Together, we can build a bright and enduring future for Haiti.

Remembering Fr. David Knight

Today, we remember the life of Fr. David M. Knight, a faithful Jesuit priest, prolific writer, and cherished member of The Haitian Project community.

Fr. David Knight at a THP community retreat in 2019.

Fr. David M. Knight passed away on Sunday, March 21, 2021 at the age of 90 in Guatemala, where he had traveled in 2020 before the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to his priestly ministry, Fr. Knight was best known as an author and retreat director. He held a doctorate in theology from Catholic University in Washington, DC and traveled all over the world performing his ministries, including the work of his non-profit ministry, Immersed in Christ.

Fr. Knight’s writing and teaching is ingrained in the fiber of The Haitian Project community. His first book, His Way: An Everyday Plan for Following Jesus, became a part of the Louverture Cleary School (LCS) community in a spontaneous way. It first served as an important part of the conversion experience for THP President Emeritus Deacon Patrick Moynihan and his wife, Christina. Deacon Moynihan recalls:

Thanks to Christina taking the book "His Way" from the table of books being given away as the Diocese of Memphis moved offices, Fr. David Knight sent me on a spiritual journey that continues to this day to increase my faith—and, hopefully my charity. His contribution to our community was integral to its formation.

His Way responds to Vatican II’s call to the laity to be witnesses of the faith and to transform society. Building upon LCS’s call for Louverturians to rebuild their nation from within, the book became the foundation for LCS’s Philo (US 12th grade +1) Religion class, which Deacon Moynihan taught for over two decades. The text has also formed the US Missionary community year after year as they work to teach and live out THP’s charism and has been called upon in many other groups within the THP community.

In addition to his written works bringing members from all parts of the THP community closer to Christ, Fr. Knight was present to THP throughout the years to teach and lead in person. In October 2000, Fr. Knight visited LCS and spent two days teaching, speaking, and participating in the community life steeped in a culture of service that his writing helped form. In the summer of 2019, THP welcomed Fr. Knight to its headquarters in Rhode Island for a community retreat, building upon the foundation of His Way and relating it to the work of carrying out THP’s mission on the US side of the community. Of Fr. Knight’s life and impact, Christina Moynihan reflects:

I feel like Fr. Knight's entire life focused on teaching us how we could live simply, and that Christ's example was doable. His easygoing nature was welcoming and inviting which helped our students really absorb and enjoy "His Way". Fr. Knight's charismatic style and authentic "way" opened many people's hearts to the Holy Spirit. He was a terrific gardener who planted the seeds for the Holy Spirit. I am grateful to have been considered his friend.

We are grateful to have had Fr. Knight as such an important member of our community. Fr. Knight’s body rests in peace in Guatemala. Immersed in Christ and his community in Memphis, TN are marking his passing with a celebration of his life. His humor, wisdom, and faithful example of how to live a truly Christian life will not be forgotten, and we pray for the repose of his soul.

Fr. David Knight with a Louverture Cleary student (left) during a visit to the school in October 2000.

Deacon Patrick Moynihan (right) teaching "His Way" at LCS circa 2006; the book became the foundation for LCS’s Philo (US 12th grade +1) Religion class, which Deacon Moynihan taught for over two decades.

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As we remember Fr. Knight, we remember the humility and intention with which he reminds us to constantly pray, like the WIT prayer he wrote, prayed, and shared:

Jesus, I give you my body. Live this day with me. Live this day in me. Live this day through me. Let me think with your thoughts, speak with your words, and act as your body on earth.

http://immersed-in-christ.blogspot.com/2014/01/how-to-stay-aware-wit-prayer.html

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“Keep In Touch” to receive periodic updates on our students, activities at Louverture Cleary School, and progress on the LCS Network. Together, we can build a bright and enduring future for Haiti.

The April Issue of Haitian Project News is Here!

LCS Economics Department Head Djim G. and members of the Philo class (US 12th Grade + 1) participate in a weekend introductory business module of LCS’s new enhanced economics and business curriculum.

We're excited to announce the April issue of 
Haitian Project News!

Louverture Cleary School, long recognized as one of the top education programs in Haiti, recently rolled out an enhanced economics and business curriculum—an initiative as exciting as it is important.

What else is new in this issue? Read about:

• Whether navigating the COVID-19 pandemic or some of the other difficulties that have challenged Haiti in recent years, many Louverture Cleary School Alumni can be found on the frontlines, leading initiatives for positive change for their country. One such alumna is Linsey Francesca J. (LCS ’13), who has dedicated herself to the study of medicine.

• The Haitian Project continues to push forward with the LCS Network despite the challenges created by the pandemic and Haiti’s political instability.

• And all of latest THP happenings and feature stories in the April issue of Haitian Project News! You are not going to want to miss reading this issue’s Student Views!

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“Keep In Touch” to receive periodic updates on our students, activities at Louverture Cleary School, and progress on the LCS Network. Together, we can build a bright and enduring future for Haiti.

Save the Date: Double Your Donation on April 1st through 401Gives

By supporting one of the best education programs in Haiti, you are transforming lives and giving the hope of a brighter tomorrow to a new generation of servant leaders.

401Gives is back this year and better than ever! On April 1st, whether you’re in Rhode Island or not, everyone is invited to participate in this special day of online giving to support RI-based nonprofits like The Haitian Project.

Starting at 6:00am EST on April 1st, visit our 401Gives page to donate.

The first $50,000 of donations will be matched by the Rhode Island Foundation (up to $500 matched per gift), making this a great way to increase your impact. Your participation will help ensure that The Haitian Project can continue to weather the impact of the pandemic on our annual funding and move ahead with the construction of our second school in Haiti.

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“Keep In Touch” to receive periodic updates on our students, activities at Louverture Cleary School, and progress on the LCS Network. Together, we can build a bright and enduring future for Haiti.

Celebrating Our Alumnae Today and Every Day!

Earlier this month we celebrated International Women’s Day. Not only on that day, but every day, we are proud of what our female graduates have accomplished for themselves and their country. Here are a few:

Lynceé C. (LCS '20)

After the COVID-19 pandemic brought her final year at LCS to a halt last March, Lyncée C. (LCS ’20) looked for ways to stay engaged and active during a challenging time. After entering a national essay competition held by the Haitian cultural institution Centre Muse Haiti about the pandemic, Lyncée placed third overall in the contest.

Stephane C. (LCS '11)

Stephane C. is well aware of the many challenges facing her fellow Haitians. After receiving a university scholarship from the LCS Dulcich Center for Career Advancement, Stephane decided to pursue her studies in agronomy. "One of the best ways to reduce poverty and specifically hunger in Haiti is through agriculture," she says.

Myrlande A. (LCS '10)

After receiving a scholarship from the LCS Dulcich Center for Career Advancement and earning her degree in administrative sciences, Myrlande A. (LCS ’10) now works at one of the largest banks in Haiti, Unibank S.A.

AND COMING SOON...

Whether navigating the COVID-19 pandemic or some of the other difficulties that have challenged Haiti in recent years, many LCS Alumni can be found on the frontlines, leading initiatives for positive change for their country. One such alumna is Linsey Francesca J. (LCS ’13), who has dedicated herself to the study of medicine.

Read all about Francesca in the April 2021 issue of Haitian Project News!

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Seeking 360 Community members to support LCS!

As we prepare to break ground on our second school, we are relying on our strong community of supporters to ensure that our flagship LCS outside of Port-au-Prince is covered for the upcoming school year and for years to come. Specifically, we are developing a group of 360 donors—the number of students at LCS—to commit to an annual gift of $1,900, which is the direct cost of one year of education for one student at LCS.

Stepping Up

Below is a reflection by Betsy Bowman on giving back in times of uncertainty. Betsy was a Volunteer at Louverture Cleary School during the earthquake in 2010 and later served on The Haitian Project’s Board of Directors.

Like many US Americans during the recent months of the pandemic, I have felt simultaneously powerless to respond to the needs all around me, and deeply, undeservingly, lucky to be healthy and relatively financially secure. I work in a Boston public school, and the pandemic has brought much deeper and more widespread suffering to my school community than to my family and social circles. The racial and socioeconomic disparity of this impact in the United States is obvious.

From the beginning, I have been so concerned about Haiti. Having spent a year as a Volunteer at Louverture Cleary, I know how challenging basic sanitation can be for many in Haiti. And, as a witness to the 2010 earthquake and its aftermath, I saw firsthand the limitations of the medical infrastructure and the fragility of so many basic civil institutions in Haiti.

When my stimulus check arrived, I felt the nudge to just hide it away for safekeeping. There is so much uncertainty, even for me.

But I could not stop thinking about Matthew 10:8. "What you receive for free, you must give for free."

When have I ever so freely received unearned money? When has that well-worn verse from Matthew ever seemed so literally true to me? Of course, the call was obvious—to give to those in greater need than myself. I decided to split it in half: to contribute some to local organizations directly meeting the needs of people in my own community, and the remainder I contributed to The Haitian Project.

I know that so many families in Haiti rely on remittances from their families abroad, and I can only imagine how those financial gifts have been impacted by the pandemic. It seems only right that those of us who are able, should step in to fill those gaps.

We can provide the direct stimulus to the people of Haiti that the Haitian government cannot.

Of course, some may find ourselves in a position to donate part or all of a stimulus check, or to make a larger than normal annual contribution. And others will not.

No matter what our individual situation, I hope that the entire Haitian Project community will remain prayerfully united in solidarity with the people of Haiti in this time of so much turmoil.

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We are so grateful for the wonderful support of Betsy and every member of the THP Community. Please consider a gift today if you are able—you are the help we have to give!

Looking to make donating to The Haitian Project easier and more effective?

Consider setting up a recurring donation today!

Many community members have found it helpful to spread their giving throughout the year with automatic monthly donations through their credit card or bank account. This consistent support allows The Haitian Project to devote more resources to the thing that matters most to all of us—increasing access to education in Haiti!

Simply visit our donate page to select the amount and frequency of your gift. You can modify or cancel your recurring donation at any time.

Thank you for being the help we have to give!

Journeying into the Desert this Lent

Into the Desert.

“Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil.”
(Matthew 4:1)

As I was reflecting about entering this season of Lent—still in the midst of so much tension in our world, so much uncertainty and separation—the image that came to mind immediately was that of Jesus being led into the desert. Perhaps we, too, are invited into the desert. What will we encounter there?

I think back to my time as a Volunteer in Haiti, and I remember how I left many things behind in order to begin life as a Volunteer. Committing to living as a Volunteer in Haiti meant leaving behind many little comforts. It meant accepting limited communication with family and friends. And, it meant learning to trust God to provide. I would have never anticipated it at the time, but looking back, it was like entering the desert.

Jesus is tempted and tested in the desert. It is precisely through that time that the identity that had just been spoken over him, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:17), is questioned and tested (Matthew 4:3; 4:6). And yet, through the grace he had to resist, it is also where his identity is strengthened.

THP Volunteer Kristin Soukup ('13-'15), center, with students at Louverture Cleary School in 2015.

When everything else is stripped away, we come face-to-face with the most essential questions. What matters the most? Who and what do I love? Where can I find hope?

It is through seasons that are like deserts that I believe I have grown the most in my relationship with the Lord. When I have stepped away from little comforts and distractions, a job, a home, when I am far from family and friends—these are the times that fundamental questions have arisen. When faced with the intensity and challenges of the work in Haiti, I had to come close in prayer to the only One who could provide the strength I needed. It was only in depending on God and trying to keep my eyes on Him that I could persevere in the hardest moments.

I wonder if going into the desert is an invitation. An invitation to ask those questions. To discover where we have been relying on ourselves or seeking hope in other places but God. And, most importantly, to go to Him and grow closer in relationship. Everything else flows out from this.

May we allow the Lord through his Spirit to lead us into the desert this Lent. Even if tempted, even when uncomfortable, if you let Him meet you, let Him provide, you will grow closer to Him. And, from Him comes our hope and the strength we have to give of ourselves in love.

LCS Enhances Economics Curriculum

Louverture Cleary School (LCS), long recognized as one of the top education programs in Haiti, recently rolled out an enhanced economics and business curriculum—an initiative as exciting as it is important.

Josh Daly, a Regional Director with the Rhode Island Small Business Development Center, teaches an introductory business module to LCS students.

Economic growth is essential to a brighter future for Haiti, which is why Economics has been a capstone course for Philo (US 12th grade + 1) students at LCS since 2012. With the help of Harvard economist N. Gregory Mankiw, who generously donated his first-year college economics text to our program, Economics at LCS has become extremely popular with LCS students, who appreciate understanding the very tangible implications of economics on their lives in Haiti.

Now, LCS is incorporating accounting and finance into the curriculum to provide the practical tools necessary to turn economic theory into economic growth. The finance and accounting curriculum was developed in partnership with Economic Growth Initiative for Haiti (EGI), which worked closely with LCS Economics Department Head Djim Guerrier (LCS ’14) to bolster the current instruction provided to LCS students through the addition of introductory modules taught by Djim and guest lecturers.

LCS Economics Department Head Djim G. and members of the Philo class participate in an introductory business module.

Reflecting on the first lesson, The Haitian Project's (THP) partners at EGI express their enthusiam for this new program:

We at EGI have been so pleased with the opportunity to deepen our partnership with THP and LCS to develop a robust business curriculum. To see that work start to come to fruition is a real delight. Even in the first sessions—done remotely through the new computer lab at LCS—students are engaged and eager to learn. Amidst a world turned upside down with the COVID-19 pandemic, through a great deal of hard work and persistence on all sides, we've been able to start something new and exciting together.

This is an exciting step for LCS in the use of the new computer lab, the growth of THP's partnership with its sister organization EGI, and continuing to provide a top-notch education to the students of LCS as they continue to work to make Haiti's better tomorrow a reality.

As ever, it is your support that we have to give. Thank you!

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