Aquinas College :: Campus Ministry

Service-Learning Programs: Haiti

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"Sometime in your life, hope that you might see on starved man, the look on his face when bread finally arrives. Hope that you might have baked or bought or even needed it yourself. For that look on his face, for your meeting his eyes across a piece of bread, you might be willing to lose a lot, or suffer a lot, or die a little, even." - Daniel Berrigan

Description of Program:

The Haiti Connection of Aquinas College is a group on campus dedicated to deepening and sharing our understanding of poverty, our human "connectedness," and the gospel message of social justice by providing opportunities for participation in Haitian culture. The Haiti Connection has established a "sister-school" relationship between Aquinas College and the Andre Pierre School in Borel, Haiti. Students learn about poverty and development through experiencing life in Haiti, visiting the Andre Pierre School and working in a children's hospital. This Service-Learning trip includes a three-credit course during second semester.

Description of Services:

A group of Aquinas students and advisors will spend approximately 10 days in Haiti interacting with the students and teachers at our sister school and visiting many sites of historical, social, and religious interest throughout Haiti. The program focuses on learning and understanding Haiti as a developing country. This trip is scheduled for May 12-21, 2009.

Living Arrangements:

While in Port au Prince the group will stay in guest housing. While in Borel participants will stay at Andre Pierre School. Meals will be provided at both of these places. Trips to other Haitian towns may be included in the itinerary.

Financial Arrangements:

The student cost for the trip is approximately $1,200 which includes meals, lodging, airfare and ground transportation within the country of Haiti. Participants are responsible for their own passports. Immunizations are not included in the cost as they vary depending on one’s health insurance. Fundraising and support letters can help provide students with funding for the trip. Individual participants should bring some spending money.

Payment Process:

A NON-REFUNDABLE program fee of $1,200 will be charged to your student account. If you are not accepted, the charge will be cancelled. If you are accepted, you will be responsible to pay your program fee through your student account. Note: Even if you withdraw from the program, after being accepted, you are still responsible for the payment. Student Account policies apply to any unpaid balances.

Requirements:

Space is limited, and priority will be given to current full-time, traditional age Aquinas students, though graduate students and guests are welcome to apply. (Prices may differ for guests.)
Enrollment in the 3-credit spring semester course on the Caribbean.
Online application available via CourseConnect*
A personal interview.
A completed Risk Awareness & Travel Agreement Form
A completed Alcohol & Behavioral Contract form
A valid passport.
Attend an orientation meeting.