It’s been two years since the earthquake that devastated Haiti. Last year I had the opportunity to go to Jacmel for a week to help with rebuilding efforts. While there, I absolutely fell in love with the people and the country. So this year, I’m trying to return.

In order to do so, I need to raise $5000 by May 24th. Every penny of the $5000 goes directly to the projects we are working on. In addition to the $5000, I still need to pay my own way, including transportation, lodging, and meals. The main project that we’re working on, the Jacmel Children’s Centre, is about 85% funded. The money we raised last year enabled us to build the exterior wall, buy a cement mixer, lay the foundation, and dig a well so the children will have constant access to clean water. Now we need to give them walls and a roof.

As part of my fundraising efforts, I will be doing 5Ks to 5K; for every $100 raised, I will run a 5K. (For those keeping track, that’ll be FIFTY 5Ks, 250 kilometres, over 155 miles!) For individual donations of $50 or more, I will bake and send you a dozen oatmeal chocolate chip cookies (or another kind, if you’re allergic) – and trust me, I make a mean oatmeal choco chip cookie!

RANDOM ACTS wrote -

Two years ago, after a destructive and devastating earthquake ravaged Haiti, Random Acts provided major funding for a journey to Jacmel to assist in rebuilding homes, communities and lives. During our initial visit, a dental clinic was reconstructed, an orphanage was refurbished and a carpentry school with 1600 donated tools was founded.

Later, in 2011, Misha Collins and the Random Acts team returned. This time, we were joined by a group of 22 enthusiastic volunteers. For the volunteers, work began before they arrived in Haiti. To secure their spot, each person expended vast amounts of energy and determination to raise at least $5000. What a great accomplishment! The monies raised from those donations, and donations from our amazing supporters, provided the tools and supplies used during our mission.

While there, the volunteers and staff opened their hearts and arms to demonstrate the true power of kindness. They worked in the fierce heat of the Haitian sun to aid in the construction of a multi-purpose community center; a facility that will provide shelter, as well as educate and feed homeless and orphaned children. Plus, our team members participated in creative and recreational activities with the children, such as arts, crafts and games.

But, our work isn’t done. That's why we're going back in 2012.

For details about the Hope to Haiti project, including requirments for joining the trip, please visit our Hope to Haiti website.