First, I have to warn everyone – I am not nearly as talented as Jonathan and others at writing blogs. I’m much better at asking how you’re pooping today (Britsionarys will understand that joke!)…

I still can’t believe that almost 4 years ago today, I became a part of the Be Like Brit family. I was a temporary intern, helping BLB develop the Britsionary Program. I worked side-by-side with Len and Cherylann (and their dog – and my coworker – Bruno!) at their kitchen table, and I immediately felt like I was a part of the family.  When I first started, I don’t think any of us knew that this journey would be much longer than just one semester!

 In November 2011, I went into Haiti for the first time – and I was TERRIFIED. I really had no idea what to expect, even though I thought I had “prepared” myself for Haiti. I will never forget my first trip – I had never seen such extensive poverty before, but at the same time, I had never seen such beauty before either. I left with a heavy heart, but also with motivation, desire and determination to help build a Britsionary Program that would give others the opportunity to see and experience Haiti too. 

In January 2012, I was hired as the USA Director and was given the task of leading the USA operations for this fast-growing organization. We’ve gone through some hard times, but also some FABULOUS ones as well! Throughout the last 4 years, I have been blessed with so many opportunities and experiences that have shaped me into the person I am today.  Some of my favorite, and fun take-aways are: I’ve learned how to quickly adapt to unpredictable scenarios with a “Plan Z” mentality because of my 33 trips to Haiti (some more “Plan Z” than others…). I’ve learned how much a pregnant female goat costs, and more importantly it’s real value to a Haitian family. I’ve learned how to “drive” in Haiti (one hand on horn and one on the wheel). And I’ve learned how to get most people to feel comfortable telling me about their poop (it’s important as a Britsionary!).

Len, Cherylann and Haiti have taught me more than I could have imagined in the last few years – but one take-away that sticks with me the most is that family is one of the most important things in life. This organization speaks volumes to that. I’ve witnessed and been a part of the love, family grief, commitment, hope, and faith that has brought BLB where it is today. I have seen how family (meaning the Gengels and all of their supporters), continue to change the lives of 66 children, 100 staff, thousands in the surrounding community, and many, many Britsionarys. Through all of these people, Britney’s spirit lives on, and will never be forgotten.

At Be Like Brit, we are a family in every sense of the word. Our Britsionary groups are family. Our child sponsors family. Our staff in Haiti are family. My Haitian and US coworkers are family. No matter where I am (Haiti or the USA), or who I’m with, I always feel like I am surrounded by family - Len, Cherylann, Bernie, Richie, Jonathan, Melissa, Doreen, Amanda, Gama, Francky, and so many others. We all have each other’s backs and I will forever be grateful for that. I feel blessed for the relationships I have formed with everyone involved at BLB and I will never forget how all of these people and experiences have forever changed my life.

Recently, life presented me with a new opportunity, and I will be taking a position at the Nativity School in Worcester – a school that provides quality, all-scholarship education to underserved boys of all faiths. I will be leaving BLB to pursue my passion of providing opportunities to underserved youth in the Worcester community. I am leaving excited to begin this next part of my journey, but also with a heavy heart as I leave my BLB family professionally.

I cannot thank the Gengels, BLB, and everyone involved enough for how this entire experience has shaped me. It feels bittersweet to leave,  butI also know, that as Len & Cherylann say, “once you’re in, you’re in.” BLB will always be a part of my life and always be in my heart.

Love,

Kristin/KWEEESTIN