Trinity in Haiti: Supporting the Need Through Social Entrepreneurship

The aftermath of the January earthquake that hit Haiti continues to be on the minds of people around the world. The needs are great as are the opportunities to help address those needs. Trinity Graduate School has begun a project to explore the possibility of coming alongside of the Haitian people through long-term sustainable development.

In April a team of graduate students and faculty traveled to Haiti to evaluate the needs and possibilities for micro-enterprises and ministries. Team members included Dr. Allison Alcorn, associate professor of music, Dr. Michael Cooper, associate professor of religion and contemporary culture, and students Sarah Bushman and Nick Tejeda.

The team's efforts in Haiti are a part of Trinity Graduate School's new emphasis in social entrepreneurship. Together with Haitians, their goals are to explore ventures for economic, social, environmental and spiritual good. Their initial efforts in Haiti have focused on what is termed a "pilot project" which is comprised primarily of research. The team spent time evaluating the needs and possibilities for sustainable ventures in addition to developing relationships with key individuals in a community who will be able to actualize and indigenize the venture. Ultimately, the project aims to help raise the quality of life and dignity of people created in the image of God. While in Haiti, the team identified two micro-enterprises that will create jobs, care for the environment, and be a witness of the love of Christ. Students Nick and Sarah will work alongside the Haitians to develop these projects.

See a full report and description of the projects.

Follow the project on Facebook at "Trinity in Haiti."

Find out more about Haiti or social entrepreneurship at Trinity.