VOCATIONAL TRAINING
Child Hope International is in the process of developing a dynamic vocational training program that will allow children to start learning practical job skills—skills that will significantly improve their chances for survival once they mature and leave Maison de Lumiere.
Carpentry, welding, auto mechanics, plumbing, electronics, computer science, sewing and cell phone repair are just a few of the skills being taught to supplement the orphaned children’s formal education.
In addition, micro-businesses are being established to help the children understand the basics of business management and to help provide additional employment opportunities once they leave the home. The current poultry, egg and used cell phone businesses have helped to finance the children’s educations and operations of the home. In addition, our new guesthouse will be the training arena for those who are interested in the hospitality industry, hotel management and food services. Their jobs at the guest house will be added to their resumes.
TRANSITION PROGRAM
The establishment of a transition program for the older children of Maison de Lumiere is a vital element of the overall program of Child Hope International. With 80% unemployment, it is critical that we provide the Haitian children with skills that will prepare them to provide for themselves and their families in this island nation.
As they mature and begin to move out into adulthood and independent living it is the goal of Child Hope International that each child be well-prepared and equipped for success in Haitian society and beyond. Some will continue in advanced education in Haiti and abroad with the hope of a professional degree and career. Others will take on a trade or launch a small business. And still others may join the staff of Maison de Lumiere. In each case, Child Hope will work closely with each child to custom design a track that will work well considering their individual talents and gifts and will likely result in a successful life transition. |
