Efforts to Provide 'Hope for Haiti' are Spotlighted

March 1, 2010

March 1, 2010, Greencastle, Ind. — DePauw sophomore Charles Pierre, who was born in Haiti and spent most of his childhood there, says friends and family who remain in that country are "very excited about DePauw's efforts to help the Haitian people." A story published in today's Banner-Graphic of Greencastle highlights the dedication of the DePauw community to assist victims of the January 12 earthquake in Haiti. (l,-r: DePauw students Chelsea Gartner, Emily Pence and Ellen Clayton collect  donations during a recent "Hope for Haiti" benefit)

Of his loved ones in Haiti, Pierre says, "They can't understand how total strangers who are not personally connected to the country can have such deep care for them and their well being. I tell them that's the American experience -- helping others while they're down." 

The article by Jamie Barrand reports that DePauw's "Hope for Haiti" efforts have raised nearly $3,000 to date. 

Senior Molly Nolden tells the newspaper, "As a student, it's very difficult to find free time to get involved, but I think as DePauw students we prioritize and contribute our time to causes that really mean something to us. The disaster in Haiti really struck a chord with me not only because of the devastation that occurred, but because of the instability in the country beforehand. After attending the first couple DePauw Haiti relief meetings, I was also inspired by the motivation and compassion of my peers that were working on Haiti relief. A few of the students in the group have direct connections to Haiti and they have really helped to bring insight and perspective into the relief efforts, and they've also served as motivators since they have a true understanding of the struggle that Haiti is facing right now."

Fundraisers have included a concert and silent auction and karaoke nights. Senior Sadie McGraw says, "We contacted (DePauw) President Brian Casey, and asked him if we would be able to use someplace on campus for a pizza party for the group who raised the most money. He actually offered up a pool party at his house, so whatever organization raises the most money will have a pool party at President Casey's house."

"As a Haitian, I feel indebted to each person who has helped organize, plan and donate to our Hope For Haiti organization," Charles Pierre states. "It takes a truly good hearted person to go out of their way to help a country thousands or hundreds of miles away that you've never visited. I speak for all Haitians and say that I am truly thankful for all of DePauw's efforts. Seeing the huge turnouts to our events is consoling, especially after you've lost friends and family."

The full text, "DePauw students continuing efforts to aid Haiti quake victims," can be found at the Banner-Graphic's Web site.

Learn more in this recent story.

Back