Hello friend,
It’s been two weeks since the last Sixty Seconds was published, and well, we’ve missed you!
In 10 years, our organization has grown and evolved tremendously.
As we perpetually look for new ways to improve health and alleviate poverty we’ve started countless new program and enjoyed many “firsts” along the way.
In fact, it feels like yesterday that we were telling you about the first birth at both births centers, the first trash day, and the first solar lamp installation.
Today was another “first” and we wish you could have been there to see it!
Second Mile Haiti’s first savings group completed their first cycle of savings and had a party to commemorate their achievements.
The group—which attracted 21 interested individuals at the first meeting— and ended with 16 committed members, is made up entirely of female entrepreneurs.
All 16 participants spent time at one of our Malnutrition Treatment Centers with sick children—and all 16 would go on to launch a business through our Business Program when their children recovered.
Each person made a commitment at the group’s opening to save a specific sum of money at each meeting. Even if they desired to save a little more or maybe a little less, the commitment was binding for the entire six month period.
The group had strict rules which they created themselves and enforced through a committee of five leaders.
Isneydor (left) is the group President and proud owner/operator of one of the areas most highly-frequented hot dog stand.
When no one immediately volunteered for the position, Dacheline—the Second Mile staff member who supports the Savings Group—had looked at Isneydor and said:
“I think you can do it.”
Isneyder was fearful of the position at first and really didn’t want it.
But she took it and excelled at the role.
Their bi-monthly meetings weren’t just for putting away a portion of their business earnings. They were also a time for exchanging ideas and providing moral support.
At each meeting they discussed their successes and challenges and encouraged each other to remember the “why” propelling their efforts.
Each person knew intimately what the other members were saving for and they often brainstormed together how to make their goals a reality.
A few people had to leave the group after missing more than the permitted number of meetings.
But in the end, these 16 entrepreneurs were left standing on their own two feet, arm in arm with each other.
From a distance, I eavesdropped on the party as it moved from entertainment— including singing performances, jokes, and a game of musical chairs—to business.
Finally, it was time for the main event: withdrawing their saved funds.
Every member of the savings group received an envelope.
Each enveloped contained the full amount saved, with interest added by Second Mile.
They didn’t announce their plans money in their envelopes as this was something they’d done repeatedly over the past six months.
Instead, I learned from Dacheline what a few of the participants had in store.
One participant plans to grow her business—selling food—by adding fresh juice to her menu.
Another participant, who’s business is sandal resale, also plans to expand her offerings.
Where she used to purchase just three pairs of sandals at a time, the money in her envelope will allow her to purchase a dozen pairs in one bulk purchase—which means she can earn even more money with each pair she sells.
One participant plans to grow her business—selling food—by adding fresh juice to her menu.
Another participant, who’s business is sandal resale, also plans to expand her offerings.
Where she used to purchase just three pairs of sandals at a time, the money in her envelope will allow her to purchase a dozen pairs in one bulk purchase—which means she can earn even more money with each pair she sells.
No party in Haiti is complete without cake.
I left my office hiding spot with a huge smile and piece of a cake which Isneyder—the President—had given me along with two handshakes.
I’m guessing one of the handshakes was for Jenn.
She told me the cake was to share.
Here’s to wishing we could share it with you!
Since the first savings group was such a success, we’ll be adding two additional groups in the coming weeks.
Sending you a slice 🍰 with love from 🇭🇹