PHA responds to the earthquake in Haiti
Posted 1.26.10
Dear Prospect Hill Academy Charter School Community,
While two weeks have passed since the devastating earthquake hit Haiti on the 12th of January, the effects of this disaster continue to impact our community in both direct and indirect ways. At school, our primary goal has been to preserve the normalcy that our students have come to know and value, and we are being vigilant in our efforts to attend to the social and emotional needs of those most vulnerable. In addition to availing our counseling staff to all students, we are also drawing heavily upon the solid foundation of relationships between students and teachers that already function as the heartbeat of our school. While these days are indeed difficult, our community is strong, and we are blessed with the good fortune of caring and compassionate members at every turn.
As a community, we are committing to two significant endeavors in the coming weeks:
The PHA Fund for Haiti
In order to contribute to the rebuilding efforts already underway in Haiti, Prospect Hill Academy is establishing a relief fund with the goal of maximizing the impact of our collective fundraising efforts. While we certainly encourage individuals to contribute to the many noble international aid organizations (such as the Red Cross, UNICEF, Partners in Health, Save the Children, etc.) that have risen to the occasion in the aftermath of the earthquake, our goal is to select a direct beneficiary in Haiti of the collective funds raised by PHA students, staff, and families. We feel that it is important for our students to know that their efforts are benefiting real people with real needs in real time, and while individuals and groups from all three campuses will implement their own fundraising strategies, the PHA Fund for Haiti will result in a cumulative contribution from the school as a whole. We are currently in dialogue with two inspiring possibilities with direct ties to Prospect Hill Academy, and in the coming weeks, we hope to finalize a decision to share with the community.
PHA Celebrates Haiti
On Wednesday evening, February 3 from 6-8 PM in the Lower School cafeteria (15 Webster Avenue in Somerville), we will be gathering as a multi-generational community for an evening of unity, hope, and solidarity by honoring the rich traditions, the proud culture, the extraordinary history, and the overwhelming beauty of Haiti. At a time of such widespread sadness and loss, this is our opportunity to cast Haiti in the positive light that its people so clearly deserve. Haitian food will be provided from 6-6:30 on a first-come/first-served basis, followed by a number of performances by PHA students and parents/guardians, and culminating with a celebration of music and dance. If you are interested in performing or sharing thoughts in the spirit of celebrating Haiti, please contact Nanzetta Merriman, Lower School Director, at 617-284-7801 by Monday, February 1 at 3 PM. All PHA students and families are invited to attend. Admission is free, although voluntary contributions to the PHA Fund for Haiti will be most welcome.
Lastly, as a bridge between the PHA Fund and our evening celebration on February 3, we will be holding a special non-dress code/dollar day for students and staff on Wednesday, February 3. Individuals who choose to participate will be charged $1, and all proceeds will go to the Fund for Haiti. As a sign of solidarity and PHA’s support for the people of Haiti, students/staff are strongly encouraged to wear blue and red, the proud colors of the Haitian flag.
“L'Union fait la force.” Unity makes strength.
Regards,
Jed F. Lippard
Head of School