In the vast tapestry of life, sometimes, unexpected twists and turns lead us to the most fulfilling destinations. For me, the journey that brought me to Haiti has been nothing short of transformative. What an absolute honor it is to share the story of how I became a part of the GOALS Haiti community.
How Did I First End Up in Haiti?
Following the devastating earthquake in 2010, I signed up to volunteer for two months in Leogane, Haiti. In the end, I stayed for nearly a year rebuilding schools, clearing debris, and blowing up my previous understanding of the world. Little did I know that this initial experience would sow the seeds for a lasting connection with Haiti's vibrant culture and resilient people.
This journey to Haiti kickstarted a 12-year career in international humanitarian and non-profit work and has remained a significant part of my life.
My Introduction to GOALS
My introduction to GOALS Haiti was serendipitous, as it often happens in life. When I met GOALS founder, Kona Shen, in Leogane, I was instantly inspired. The organization's mission to empower Haitian youth through sports, education, and community engagement resonated with me on a profound level.
Kona’s creative approach to development using soccer was exciting and fun! As the community recovered from a profound disaster, GOALS programs continued to provide opportunities for children to be children in a safe, supportive environment. It was clear that this was an organization dedicated to creating tangible, positive change in Haiti and I wanted to be a part of it.
How Being on the Board of GOALS Fulfills Me
Serving on the Board of Directors at GOALS has been a source of immense fulfillment for me. It's an opportunity to leverage my skills and expertise gained through years of global humanitarian work to support an organization that is making a real impact at the grassroots level.
GOALS' dedication to youth development and community engagement aligns perfectly with my passion for creating lasting, positive change in the world. Through my involvement with GOALS, I've witnessed the transformational power of mentorship, sports, and education in the lives of Haitian youth. It's a reminder that, even in the face of adversity, resilience and hope can thrive.
Stepping Up as Board Chair: What I Hope to Accomplish
Recently, I took on the role of Board Chair at GOALS, a responsibility I take with great humility and enthusiasm. In this capacity, I hope to guide the organization towards even greater impact.
My goals as Board Chair are:
1. Sustainability: Work towards financial sustainability to ensure GOALS' programs can continue to flourish long into the future.
2. Advocacy: Advocate for the well-being of Haitian youth, both on a local and global scale.
3. Community Engagement: Foster a sense of community and inclusion among GOALS' supporters, volunteers, and beneficiaries.
My time in Haiti and my involvement with GOALS have been a testament to the incredible adventure life can take us on when we remain open to new experiences and opportunities. GOALS' work in Haiti is a beacon of hope, and I'm honored to be a part of it.
As I embark on this new chapter as Board Chair, I look forward to working closely with the dedicated team at GOALS, our partners, and our supporters to make a lasting difference in the lives of Haitian youth. Together, we can empower the next generation to overcome challenges, and pursue their dreams (such as three GOALS participants playing in the Women’s World Cup!).
Check out the inspiring work of GOALS on our website www.goalshaiti.org. Whether through volunteering, donating, or spreading the word, there are many ways to be a part of this remarkable journey.
Thank you for joining me in this incredible adventure of impact, growth, and fulfillment. Together, we can continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most.
Warmly, Shanna
Shanna Snider