Rob received word yesterday that the grant application we put together last week was approved and that Toys R Us is making a donation of 250 soccer balls for distribution by BR in Haiti.  Thanks to CEO, Jerry Storch for his quick response and commitment to the effort to help children in need regardless of where they are or whether their parents shop at his stores.  We'll likely plan a day over the summer to get them packed up, so stay tuned if you're interested in helping.

On Sunday, I spent some time visiting my aunt and uncle for whom we built the wheelchair ramp a few weeks back.  Dick is recovering nicely and my aunt reports that he spends time out on the deck extension we added when the weather is warm enough.  I was surprised to find that someone else has picked up where BR left off, as there was mulch added around the flowers we moved, and the neighbor had mowed the yard for them.  While visiting, Dick and I discussed some options for a door wedge to help him get into the house a little easier; fortunately we were able to locate the materials for same.  I'll head out later this week (assuming the rain stops) to cut the materials and secure them to the deck.  We also got the bedroom door off the hinges to give him a bit more room and make it easier to maneuver around the house.  There are still some small jobs that need to be completed related to the ramp including cutting off the remaining 4x4s, adding a cap rail to the banisters, and putting up lattice.  Also, the friction tape needs added to the decking so no one slips, though the weather (again) needs to improve before this can be done.

I spoke with Jim today and indicated my desire for an ongoing work list that volunteers can participate in over the summer for the weekends when there aren't "big" jobs.  With the students away for summer, and volunteers likely in short supply, those of us that are still around would be ale to continue the work independently without the need for significant coordination.  We also discussed ways in which we can help the economy of Haiti  While it is unlikely that we can make a significant difference on a macro scale, at a minimum we should be able to create some change on a local level.  A micro loan program was the first suggestions, but given that most are not working, they would not have the ability to pay back the loans.  We did however come up with an idea to provide the wages for a worker at the orphanage.  This approach not only puts someone to work, but also helps out the orphanage, which could likely use the additional staffing, given there are 116 children sharing one property.  I'm certain this will need some more consideration, but its a sound plan that I think we could easily cultivate support for.  If we had enough support we could potentially subsidize multiple employees at various locations including local schools, cleanup sites, and the like.  If you're interested in helping, or sponsoring a new employee in Haiti, get in touch.

-Nate