Day One: Bonjou!

Although we were all a bit tired and jet lagged, we powered through the day and had an amazing afternoon spent at SAKALA. SAKALA is located in Cite Soleil, the largest slum just outside of the capital, Port-au-Prince. SAKALA is run by the founder, Daniel Tillias, who grew up in the area but returned to try to change his hometown. It is a community organization that supports the highly profiled youth that inhabit Cite Soleil. For example, they offer a multitude of sports for both boys and girls, such as soccer, volleyball, and basketball. In addition, they offer tutoring and scholarships for students. Within the center is also the largest urban garden on the entire island that teaches the youth applicable agricultural skills, while also empowering them to create something with their own hands. Most importantly, SAKALA is a place of hope, offering the youth of Cite Soleil another option to rise above the negative stigma that surrounds them. We all had so much fun playing sports, chess, or other interactive games with the kids at SAKALA and seeing the growth and beauty of its garden. For those of us who are returning, we have had so much fun reconnecting with the family. For those of us who are here for the first time, we have had so much fun meeting the family and being welcomed by them immediately. Our bellies are full from an incredible Haitian meal and will be signing off early tonight to get a full night of rest in order to make the most of this amazing week we have ahead of us.