Miami – After three months of fundraising efforts in response to the tragic earthquake in Haiti this past January, Miami Dade College (MDC) officials recently presented a check for nearly $42,000 to World Vision’s Operation Hope for Haiti (OHH). The funds were raised through combined efforts of the College’s students, faculty and staff, that began immediately following the Jan. 12 disaster.
The college’s efforts inspired other institutions to join the cause including Snead State Community College in Alabama that also contributed to this total.
“Miami Dade College was the first institution to step in after the earthquake to work with us,” said Julie Grimes, co-chair, World Vision’s OHH. “The tragedy in Haiti continues even after the cameras are turned off.” OHH is a South Florida-led initiative that has focused all its efforts towards relief and recovery for those affected by the earthquake in Haiti.
World Vision has a long history of working in Haiti and is one of the largest humanitarian organizations in the world, with more than 800 staff serving 20 communities throughout the country. The College selected OHH as the recipient of its Haiti Relief Campaign because OHH, in partnership with World Vision, is focused on uniting the community of South Florida to maintain a sustained response to relief and recovery efforts.
“Operation Hope for Haiti emphasizes that South Florida residents must be the voice of the voiceless and help our neighbors receive the long-term support they will need to build a new life,” said MDC President, Dr. Eduardo J. Padrón.
“These funds represent the generosity of our students and employees who made the tremendous effort to donate their time and raise money on behalf of Haiti’s citizens. I am proud and grateful that our tight-knit community was able to support our friends in Haiti.”
L-R: Nitin Motwani, co-chair of World Vision’s Operation Hope for Haiti; MDC Board of Trustees Chair Helen Aguirre Ferre; Julie Grimes, co-chair of World Vision’s Operation Hope for Haiti; Lisa Torres, regional director, World Vision U.S.; and Scott Burnotes, MDC director of emergency preparedness.
(Photo Credit: Phil Roche/Miami Dade College).
Dr. Padrón and his MDC colleagues continue working on Haiti recovery projects including a coordinated effort to help Haiti’s higher education system recover from the devastating quake. More details will be announced soon.
For more information about World Vision’s Operation Hope for Haiti, visit www.worldvision.org
