Change the World through Sustainable Job Creation

Dear Supporters,

I am pleased to announce the recent donation of more than 300 pairs of REBUILDER sandals to Central Floridians in need via the organizations first Flop Drop initiative.Through the generous support of the Central Florida community, REBUILD Globally has been able to employ seven full-time Haitian men and women to manufacture the organizations handcrafted REBUILDER sandals. The Flop Drop event looks to give back to the community by providing local nonprofits with REBUILDER sandals which will be distributed to citizens in need.  

REBUILD Globally would not be in operation today without the unwavering support of the Central Florida community. This support translates to employment for Haitian men and women.  The result of which has been truly life-changing. With previous experience working in a local Orlando Non-Profit, it has been very evident the strong desire to keep resources locally, rather than simply sending resources and funding abroad. I, feel torn to do both. I believe this is something that makes RG unique, making a difference on both spheres.

The Haitian men and women employed by RG, having been given so much by Central Florida, wanted to do something to show their gratitude and appreciation.  They wanted to give back to the men, women and children most in need here, in Central Florida. With existing relationships with selected several Central Florida nonprofit agencies, RG was able begin contacting agencies to receive free REBUILDERS sandals for their clients. 

The first of these “flop drops” was conducted at the BETA Center in November. BETA Center is a school and home to teenage mothers in Central Florida. BETA Center aims to

• Provide a safe and accessible place to help stabilize families in crisis.
• Meet the critical needs of pregnant and parenting teens with comprehensive services and a holistic approach.
• Provide developmentally stimulating child care for at-risk infants/toddlers
• Strengthen families by educating and supporting youth and parents.
• Overcome the resistance of high-risk clients to open the door to change.

Additional flop drops are planned at several local agencies in December and January.

Together we are able to make lasting impacts in the lives of Haitian earthquake survivors and children in need all over the world.

 In solidarity,

Julie

Links:

• http://www.betacenter.org/

Due to the incredible growth REBUILD Globally has experienced over the past year and a very generous donation from WorldwideModular construction, we are pleased to report that we happily grew out of our first location! On July 8, 2011, we had the honor to host an official ribbon cutting ceremony at our new shop.  There were nearly 300 people in attendance with representation from Haitian businesses, government officials, volunteers, family and friends.  It is a bit surreal to see one of our dreams turn into reality and so quickly, but this has inspired us to work even harder to reach our other goals.   We know with the support of people like you, each one is possible.  In our new shop, we are now able to provide partner organizations space, produce more quantity and produce a better quality sandal, but most importantly, when funding is available– we will be able to employ more artisans!

Thank you so much for your contribution to REBUILD Globally.  Your gift is literally transforming the lives of individuals.  You are the fuel that keeps this fire burning.  And with a little more of that same love, we can turn this flame into a brushfire!

With love from Haiti,

Julie