On the Second Anniversary of the Haiti Earthquake: Looking to the Future and Haitis Youth

A Statement by IRD President and CEO, Dr. Arthur B. Keys, Jr.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE JANUARY 12, 2012 CONTACT: MELISSA PRICE 571-366-1596 PRESS@IRD-DC.ORG
ARLINGTON, VA Two years on, the men, women, and children of Haiti continue to face many challenges in rebuilding their lives and their country following the January 2010 earthquake and subsequent widespread cholera crisis. But progress has been made, and the Haitian people continue to show great resilience in the face of tremendous tragedy. IRD continues to stand with the people of Haiti and remains committed to their long-term growth. We believe a central focus as we move forward should be Haitis youth. Young people hold the key to any nations future, and we feel it is important to support the youth of Haiti and ensure they are well equipped to manage the long-term development and success of their country. To this end, IRD is proud to have partnered with the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA), Slovenian Global Action (SLOGA), the Slovenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the local Haitian government to open a new school in Carrefour, Haiti in October of last year. The school serves 300 boys and girls in the city and surrounding areas, many of whom are still displaced and traumatized by the earthquake and its aftermath. In addition to the new school, the program will provide teacher training and youth centers that can address basic needs and offer information on entrepreneurship and civic engagement. The goal is to instill a sense of hope within Haitis youth and give them and opportunity to expand their knowledge and acquire the skills and motivation needed to help rebuild and redevelop their own communities. This program is one of many being implemented across Haiti by local and international non-governmental organizations, who must all continue working together to support the Haitian people with the tools and resources they need for a successful future. These efforts also depend highly on the generous support of large donors and private individuals. Without these funds and gifts-in-kind, we would not be able to reach those in need. We thank you for your kindness and commitment to the people of Haiti. IRD is a nonprofit, nongovernmental organization responsible for implementing relief, stabilization, and development programs worldwide. IRDs mission is to reduce the suffering of the worlds most vulnerable groups and provide the tools and resources needed to increase their self-sufficiency. Specializing in meeting the needs of communities emerging from conflict or natural disaster, IRD partners with donors, local organizations, and many others to deliver sustainable services in agriculture, governance, health, and infrastructure. For more information, visit IRD.org.

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