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In a culture where almost half of the people are illiterate and most never finish secondary school, people in Mizak thirst for opportunities to learn. In addition to the economic opportunities afforded by HAPI, artisans and community members look to HAPI to provide other ways to improve their situation. This enthusiasm resulted in the creation of several classes now offered through the co-op – English, Theology, and Art.
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The Arts
HAPI art classes focus on seeing more in their surroundings and bringing that into their paintings. The work created by students has been featured in galleries in the United States and has become popular with HAPI customers. Several paintings have been used on our special Painted Card Sets. The painters have also been using their skills to beautify their community with murals.
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English
Students in the English class gain confidence with the language, hoping that their abilities will contribute to the success and independence of HAPI as a business in the international market. Learners gather up to three times a week and are led by local advanced students and supplemented by US volunters. These classes are open to the community and many varied ages welcomed the opportunity to learn more.
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Theology
Faith is an important part of Haitian life, and more formal study is well received. Several young adults have been inspired to become leaders in a new church formed in Mizak.
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New Church Start
The young congregation is an outcome of HAPI, not a program that was initiated by HAPI. Community members and HAPI leadership are not required to attend this church in order to participate in any of HAPI's programs.
Local leadership requested educational resources in Methodist Theology, polity and social principles. From this beginning, a pastoral staff of 15 people rooted in Wesleyan principles emerged under the leadership of senior lay preacher and HAPI's Director, Paul Prevost. Adult education and services are held on Sunday mornings in the co-op facility.
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The church is currently independent of denominational affiliation and does not receive monetary funding from HAPI. Efforts are underway to ratify the church with the Methodist Church of Haiti. Future plans supported by HAPI include additional development of pastoral staff and lay speakers. HAPI may enlist teams for building, Vacation Bible School or other events. The church will develop its own community outreach independent of HAPI programs but HAPI will help to manage the fund development and building of a facility in the future.
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Music
UJECE is the singing group that began as part of the worship gatherings. Creating a CD of their songs and doing performances in other communities. Their harmonizing is a wonderful way of sharing their talents.
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HAPI is registered as an Advance Special #3020490 through the United Methodist Church. Your donations may be tax deductible and full-disclosure is given if requested. 