Junior Hannah Goldberg and some other juniors traveled to Haiti over Thanksgiving break to serve the people through the Global Family Philanthropy, a non-profit organization that was founded by Goldberg’s mother and serves disadvantaged children, elderly and the sick.

Haiti is an island located in the Caribbean. In 2010 its citizens suffered the devastating effects of an earthquake that was registered a magnitude of 7.0 on the Richter scale. According to World Bank, 59 percent of the population lives on less than $2 a day.

On the trip, the girls spent time in Ouanaminthe, a town in northern Haiti with a population of nearly 100,000, and another small rural community called Derac. When asked what a typical day in Haiti consists of, Goldberg responded, “I wouldn’t say there is a normal day in Haiti, every day we are doing something different. For example, we visit medical clinics, schools for mentally/physically disabled children, schools funded by the Church and homes for elderly people. Most days we end up back at the Global Family Philanthropy orphanage in the afternoon and stay until night.”

The girls described the Haitians as extremely grateful for the service and very affectionate. “Everyone is definitely kind and loving, but culturally they are a lot more ‘hands on’ than Americans,” said Goldberg.

Goldberg has been visiting Haiti once or twice a year with Global Family Philanthropy, especially during Thanksgiving, ever since fourth grade. “It is really special for me to be able to experience them growing up while I grow up too,” said Goldberg. In more recent trips, Goldberg has enjoyed taking on a leadership role, assisting her mom in organizing the trip. When asked about what one of the best moments on the trip was, Goldberg shared that the orphanage welcomed a new baby girl whose parents could no longer provide basic necessities.  She described her relief in seeing the immediate bond that formed with the other kids, especially the older boys.  “It was really nice to see her in a home where she was cared for and accepted,” she said.

Serving people abroad has truly impacted the life of the girls on this trip in a positive manner. There are several opportunities that Xavier provides for its students to share their time, talent and treasure including trips to Nicaragua, Ecuador and much more. To all students considering serving abroad: do not be afraid to escape your comfort zone. Goldberg advised that, “No matter where you travel outside of the United States, it is going to be different, so widen your boundaries and enjoy yourself even though the experience might be a little uncomfortable.”
To find out more please visit  http://globalfamilyphilanthropy.org/

Gallery ♦ 5 Photos

courtesy of Hannah Goldberg '17