In 2002, after much prayer, we took a step of faith to fulfill a deep desire in our hearts to serve the rural poor in southern Haiti. Growing up in Haiti we witnessed time and time again how well-intended help often fueled more poverty in our homeland. We know that the Haitian people have strengths and are not weak and powerless, as is often suggested on websites, blogs and other media. We come as servants to work alongside of Lougou residents and play the role of catalysts so as to provoke an awakening of the hero that lies deep within the heart of each community member.
Back in 2004, as we began to engage community members, they asked us, “What have you come here to do for us?” Our response was, “Nothing.” They were shocked by our answer. We thought that our relationship would not last. But they tolerated us while we went on doing “nothing” for them.
We believe that it is imperative to build relationships with the people we serve. We do that by spending quality time with villagers so mutual trust can occur. We listen to community members and we give them time to process and figure things out. We do not rush them. We stand by them as facilitators. We engage, mobilize, and train. We demonstrate Christ’s love through servant leadership.
It is so rewarding to stand in the background and watch young people, women and men take on leadership roles in various community affairs. As we make plans to begin this process with another village, it is our hope that some Lougou residents would be willing to accompany us to act as catalysts themselves.