This post — and likely a number of the posts you’ll read on my blog later this week — are a bit of a departure from the normal PR and social media topics I cover. But, I have a once in a lifetime opportunity and I want to share the experience with you. I hope you’ll indulge me.
After the Haiti earthquakes, millions of people donated to disaster relief funds, which provided necessary, immediate assistance. However, Willa Shalit, the founder of Fair Winds Trading, recognized the need to establish sustainable income in the devastated country. She launched Heart of Haiti – a program that now employs 450 Haitian artists who make home décor and art, in turn exclusively sold at Macy’s. Thus far, this program has provided financial benefits to an estimated 4000-5000 people in the country.
Why am I telling you this? Later this week, I will be traveling to Haiti as part of a blogger outreach tour. We will tour Port-au-Prince and some of the surrounding areas to get a feel for the current conditions in Haiti and a glimpse into day-to-day life. Plus, we’ll get to meet the Heart of Haiti artisans. Personally, I am beyond excited to connect with these amazing people who turned to art to overcome devistation and provide financial support for their families and communities.
Truth be told, the closer we get to the trip, the more nervous I get. I’ve never been to a third-world country, nor have I ever seen devastation like what I imagine we’ll see in Haiti. (If you’ve ever experienced anything like this, please share your advice in the comments!) But, I have no doubt this will be an incredible experience and I can’t wait to share photos, tweets and blog posts documenting the experience. (Fingers crossed we have some reliable Internet access!) My goal is to shine light on the amazing, courageous people behind Heart of Haiti and hopefully inspire you in the process. If you have specific questions about the Heart of Haiti program, leave them in the comments or shoot me an email and I’ll do my best to get the answers for you.
A huge thank-you to the team at Incept, who is sponsoring my visit to Haiti. Their commitment to giving — and specifically to Haiti relief efforts — is remarkable and I’m so grateful to have their support. If you’re not familiar with Incept, connect with them on their blog, via Twitter or “like” them on Facebook. This trip wouldn’t be possible without Everywhere (the agency organizing the tour), especially Danica Kombol. And lastly, a thanks to my friend Sarah Evans for her words of encouragement and support!
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Heather,
That is an INCREDIBLE opportunity! I’ve never visited a third world country but my boyfriend is actually going to Haiti next week for a week-long grad school trip. Like you, he’s a bit nervous about the state of distress and even the safety. I can’t wait to see your photos and read your posts, especially as you connect with the artists.
Have a safe and unforgettable trip!
Will be thrilled to join you on this journey Heather!
Wow- what an amazing opportunity, Heather! Can’t wait to hear more about your adventures. I’m sure it will be life-changing.
Godspeed to you, Heather! I, too, have never been to a third world country nor have I seen this sort of devastation first-hand, so I won’t be able to impart any words of wisdom. However, you will be in my thoughts, and I can’t wait to read all about your experience!
Really excited that you are going to Haiti with us all.
Heather, this is wonderful! I hope you have a great time and safe travels. Look forward to keeping up with your updates!
@anandaleeke So excited to meet you … just a few more days!
@tressalynne Thanks so much Tressa!
@KellyeCrane Kellye, I’ve never done anything like this. It’s so far outside my comfort zone, but I guess that’s a good thing, right?! No doubt it will be an incredible experience. Thanks for the well-wishes!
@danicakombol Thanks for the invite, Danica! Can’t wait to finally meet you in person!
@alliemac01 Hope all goes well for your boyfriend! I’ll try to post updates from my trip often!
@LindsTR Thanks for the well-wishes!
So excited to be joining you on this trip! I’ve spend a lot of time in the developing world and will be there with you every step of the way.
@SloaneBerrent Sloane, that’s so reassuring. BTW, so excited to meet you. Someone with a blog named Causemopolitan must be awesome! See you in a couple days!
Sounds like a great opportunity as a communicator. Good luck. I look forward to your updates!