Haiti, a nation battered by gang violence and daily struggles, reflects the plight of the oppressed everywhere. Psalm 9:9 speaks directly to their condition: “The Lord will be a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.”
Imagine a refuge. It’s not a place on a map, but a shelter from the storm within. When the sound of bullets replaces birdsong, and the fight for food dominates daily life, God becomes that refuge.
Amidst these challenges, Haiti’s greatest hope lies in its children as they represent the unfulfilled potential of a nation. The world they build will determine the trajectory of the country. Because children hold so much promise, they are an investment in the future.
At Schools for Haiti, we believe education goes beyond textbooks. This includes fostering critical thinking skills, ethical values, and a sense of social responsibility. We’re passionate about nurturing well-rounded individuals capable of having a real impact on Haiti. Here are some of our recent highlights:
- To ignite creativity and joy, we’ve added engaging music and art programs to our curriculum.
- We’re keeping pace with the digital age by expanding Starlink internet access and equipping new computer labs with 120 laptops.
- Sustainability is important to us, so both Sharpe and theChapel schools now run on solar power.
- And that’s not all! We recently launched a groundbreaking Construction school, giving older students valuable trade skills for a bright future.
William (Bill) Mansfield is the President and Owner of On Track Technology Solutions, LLC, with more than 30 years of experience in the technology industry. He built his first company, On Track Communications, Inc., from the ground up—growing it from zero clients to more than 7,000 commercial customers and annual billings exceeding $30 million before successfully selling to AppDirect in 2020. Today, through On Track Technology Solutions, Bill leads global initiatives in the sustainability sector, helping commercial and industrial clients improve water and energy efficiency. A longtime supporter of charitable causes, Bill has served on numerous nonprofit boards and views volunteering as a way to share his many blessings with others.
Byron Howell is both a lawyer and a minister, bringing over a decade of dedicated service to Schools for Haiti. In his legal practice, Byron represents major real estate firms in complex acquisitions, applying a pragmatic, solutions-focused approach—a skill set he also brings to his ministry and nonprofit work. He and his wife, Shannon, have traveled to Haiti numerous times, visiting our schools and connecting with the communities we serve. Byron’s blend of education, professional expertise, and deep heart for ministry continues to advance Schools for Haiti’s mission in meaningful ways.
Douglas Fearing and his wife Lois reside in Portage, Wisconsin. Douglas is the CEO of Fearing’s Audio Video Security, a company he and Lois founded in 1997 and which is based in Madison, Wisconsin, with an additional office in Milwaukee. Douglas has been an integral part of Schools for Haiti, serving on its Board of Directors since 2015. As a dedicated family man, he takes pride in being a father to two wonderful daughters and cherishes his roles as a grandfather and great-grandfather. Douglas is also a published author, esteemed community and church leader, and passionate youth mentor. He is the visionary behind a mentoring non-profit organization, serving as its founding and current President. Notably, Douglas has held the esteemed position of State President within the Wisconsin Jaycees, now recognized as Junior Chamber International (JCI).
Frank Hunt is the President of F. Hunt Enterprises, LLC, a South Carolina-based distributor for Hunt Brothers Pizza. With a strong background in distribution, Frank has been at the helm of F. Hunt Enterprises since founding the company in 1999.
Rick Barker is a seasoned leader in the faith-based and nonprofit sector with more than two decades of experience in pastoral ministry, church leadership, community development, and international missions. His missions work includes Haiti, Ukraine, Honduras, the Appalachian Mountains and El Salvador. He is recognized for his ability to strengthen and grow mission-driven organizations by aligning vision, people, and resources to achieve sustainable impact.
Mark Graham has been involved with non-profit organizations to raise money and participate as a Board Member of 501(C)(3) organizations since 1972. As a board member of organizations, I have led teams to rebuild a football stadium, build new college library, raise money for children with Cerebral Palsy, support teachers for children with weak education, Board member of Company for security for churches, and mental health services.
Matt White obtained a BS in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Central Florida in December 1991. As a young engineer Matt worked in that field for the next several years with companies like Lockheed Martin and Pratt & Whitney as a mechanical design engineer.
Dr. Sanjie Jackson is a passionate and community-driven dentist who leads with warmth, excellence, and heart. Born in Dominica and raised in the U.S. Virgin Islands and Florida, she brings a rich cultural perspective to her work. A graduate of the University of Florida College of Dentistry, she combines advanced dental care with a deep commitment to service. both locally and globally, through mission work in the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Swaziland, and Tampa Bay. Dr. Jackson currently serves as Vice President of the West Coast Central District Dental Association and President of the Upper Pinellas County Dental Association. Her dedication to helping others aligns with her mission to make a lasting impact through both dentistry and charitable work.
Dr. Heather Schock is an Assistant Professor at The University of Tampa, where she has cultivated a reputation for thoughtful leadership and excellence in teaching and research. With a strong academic foundation and a desire to empower future educators, Dr. Schock has contributed significantly to the university’s School of Education, driving the success of its students and the broader academic community.