Matthew Naylor is president of Outreach International, which is based in Independence.
www.outreach-international.org
1. What is the nature of Outreach International’s efforts in Haiti?
Outreach International has a network of some 90 schools that enables 9,000 children to attend school. In a country with few educational opportunities, the chance to go to school is highly valued. Some of those children are now doctors and business professionals. We have been working in Haiti for more than 20 years, and have spent over $3 million, all contributed by families and individuals who have a heart for children and their families. Our immediate concern now is to help the people in Haiti in the best way possible, and ensure our money is being wisely. We also place a high value on long-term recovery and will be using our funds to help children get back to school and enable families to put the pieces of their lives together.
2. How many people do you have there? Have you had any successful communication with them? Are they safe?
We are working diligently to re-establish contact with our teams in Haiti. But as of Friday morning, we have heard nothing since the single e-mail just after the quake. We know that the many schools have been destroyed. School was in session at the time. We are deeply concerned for the welfare of the children, families, teachers and staff. This is a tragic moment.
3. You have been to Haiti several times. How would you describe its problems and possibilities?
If there is one thing I have seen in Haiti – common in poor communities throughout the world – is that the people desperately want to be free of poverty. They work hard. But the Haitians suffer immeasurably due to regular natural disasters and fractured political systems. I see in the eyes of the children in the Outreach International partnership schools dreams, hope and determination that tells me there is possibility and opportunity. I am convinced that with ongoing support from their neighbors, Haiti can overcome this disaster and rebuild their nation. They are a proud people. We can’t give up on them.
4. How do you keep people engaged in this long-term issue once the headlines fade?
Many people who respond to crises such as this understand that there is no quick fix to poverty. They know that after the immediate response the hard work of rebuilding begins. And they become regular partners with the poor through Outreach International. Through our Web site (www.outreach-international.org) and magazine, we provide regular information, updates and news to donors. Many of our donors tell us how their life is enriched by staying the course with a family and community who are working to change their lives after disasters like this. It’s so important that we not forget the suffering after the cameras are put away and the dead are buried.
5. If people want to help, what’s the best way to start?
There are three immediate things that people can do to support the people in Haiti: 1. Make a donation to help people with immediate needs and to rebuild their homes, schools, businesses, their lives. 2. Pray and hold the people of Haiti in your thoughts. 3. Invite your friends to do the same. Good things happen when people of goodwill come together to help those in need.
