by Kristin Hervey
A year ago I was just beginning to learn about Be Like Brit and its mission. After reading the story, I knew that this organization was something I wanted to get involved with and a lot of things happened since then. After many emails and meetings with Kristin and people at my school (St. Peter Marian), a group of 9 other students and 2 teachers signed up to go to Haiti! Throughout the year we researched information on Haiti and did fundraisers as a group. Also in this past year I began to volunteer at the OC in Worcester where I get to see the "behind the scenes" action done by Kristin, Melissa, and Doreen. Volunteering there really has helped prepare me for this trip because I've gotten to see all of the hard work that goes into BLB and also the kindness in the people who are a part of it. Now I am here, in Haiti, experiencing the happiness and openness the Haitian people all have. One event that really expressed those ideals was when my group went on a walk to the river. Children from the community immediately came up to us, held our hands, spoke with us, and walked with us. Most of them didn't even have shoes but they were so smiley! It is absolutely amazing being able to be here and experience all that Be Like Brit is. The dance parties (my favorite dance with the kids is Bailando!), the singing, the children piggy back and "donkey" rides, and just being with the children are experiences I will cherish forever. Be Like Brit is not just an orphanage for 66 beautiful children; it is a mission that is impacting the whole community in such a positive way. Providing jobs, clean water, and homes for people in the community are just a few of the many things that BLB is doing. I truly felt an incredible amount of optimism and hope in Grand Goave and it makes me very excited for the future of Haiti. It’s hard leaving but I know I will continue to help with BLB by volunteering at the OC and going on more Britsionary trips. I can't wait for my next trip!
Visit Haiti!
