“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Nelson Mandela.
Very few dispute the importance of education. Not only does it help people to become better citizens and expose individuals to diverse cultures and perspectives, but education also provides stability, enrichment and helps people grow and help others.
For many years, Orchard Park Presbyterian Church has partnered with Central Plateau Scholarship Program to financially support post-high school students from the Central Plateau area of Haiti. Students’ courses of study range from 3 months to 4 years and include studies in nursing, education, accounting, construction, and computer science. In 2022, the program provided $45,349 in scholarships to 28 students. Orchard Park and its members contributed over $10,000.
Meet Emanuse Jean. She just finished four years of nursing school and is taking her board exams. Despite challenges including the corona virus, pandemic, cholera outbreak, natural disasters, political unrest, and a poor Haiti economy, Emanuse Jean has persevered to obtain a nursing degree and help others.
Meet Leon Phaneul. He majored in agronomy at the Charlemagne Peralte University of the Center (UCPEC) and graduated in 2023. Leon Phaneul is obtaining his license. He is married and has 3 children. Leon Phaneul wants to thank the Scholarship Program and donors who contributed to him realizing his childhood dream.
2024 brings eleven new students, majoring in nursing, cosmetology, chef, civil engineering, accounting, agro-tech, and construction. These young men and women have a bright future because OPPC members have care. OPPC and members donated $2,820 during the 2023 Share
the Light Christmas Market and will contribute $5,000 of mission funding from its operating budget in 2024.
If you would like to individually contribute towards a student’s education, contact members Al Atz, Becky Atz or Verdier Cherfils for more information. Follow Central Plateau Scholarship Program on Facebook.
