A Day with Our Scholarship Recipients in Port-au-Prince, Summer 2019

On July 21, 2019 Jacqueline “Jackie” Oriscar Lee, Haiti On The Rise’s Executive Director,  organized a one day orientation for both new and returning students and their parents of the Haiti On The Rise Scholarship Program.  The purpose of the meeting was to inform parents and students about the program’s history, accomplishments, and objectives.  Throughout the day, Jackie emphasized the importance for all to work diligently to not only obtain good grades but also to attain their dreams.  She told the parents and guardians how essential it is to guide the children while in school.  The students were made aware that in addition to their families, there are many others beyond Haiti such as you – the supporters of Haiti On The Rise – who love them greatly.

The second part of the day was full of artistic undertakings, team-building exercises, and the performing arts.  Prior to the major activities, we had the students go through a rhythmic exercise to learn and remember every student’s name.  Later in the day, last year’s scholarship recipients drafted personalized, heartfelt thank you cards for their sponsors.  While the thank you cards were being created, new scholarship awardees worked as a team to complete a large, complex puzzle – an accomplishment they were quite proud of.

Lastly to prepare the students for the upcoming school year, Jackie, conducted one of the best activities of the day – the distribution of new backpacks and school books for the scholarship students.   Recently, one of our new scholarship recipients told us that last year she had only a few small notebooks as school supplies for the entire academic year because her aunt was unable to buy books for her. This summer she was able to enroll in the Haiti On The Rise Scholarship Program and has received a brand new backpack complete with 18 school books, 12 notebooks, and other supplies. She was extremely grateful, as were all participants! 

Throughout the day, the students were overjoyed from the variety of activities, delicious meals prepared by Jackie’s family and friends, and the apparent abundance of support.  At the end of the day, each student and their family came to thank and hug Jackie with a huge smile.  She felt elated and thought how you and our organization have brought positive change to the world.  Together we can do it – a child, a family, and a community at a time.  Thanks again for the gift of education that you helped provide to these students.  All is made possible because of you!

With Love and Gratitude,

Haiti On The Rise