Help for Haiti

I’ve been lagging, and I apologize. Life takes turns we don’t expect, and other priorities get swept aside. Besides my back being out of whack, things are progressing here. I’ve been writing—a lot.

My novel is currently sitting on the proverbial shelf. It’s been there a while—since the end of March. Ugh, I know. I was hoping to finish it this year, but life’s like that. I’m not giving up on it, but I changed directions a bit. A Poetic Journey is coming along nicely. Books 1-4 are just about ready. I will begin looking for a publisher, most likely in the next week or so. Prayers would be appreciated.

My long-time friend and singing partner, Janis Walton, is a missionary in Haiti. As part of her work, she is in charge of one of the Haitian music certification programs. The students will complete 100 hours of class time for a level one certificate from the Haiti National Association of Music Educators. They will then be given instruments, curriculum, opportunities to interact with other schools for festivals, concerts, etc. The second set of classes will be available to them for a level two certification. This is free to the Haitians, and teachers volunteer to see this excellent program through.

Janis has asked me to teach a ten-hour class on Music Fundamentals beginning the first week of October, broken up once a week for four weeks. Additionally, I will lead a Piano Methods class before the year’s end or early in the new year. I am super excited about teaching music again. It will be interesting to have a French interpreter and do this virtually, but it will be well-worth seeing these eager Haitians learn the basics of their passion. If you would be interested in donating to their cause, you may contact Janis at janisplantwalton@gmail.com. Your contribution would help provide instruments and curriculum needs.

Janis is bringing her university small singing group, Une Seule Voix, to the states in October. I’m hoping to attend one of their concerts. Check out their music on the website at www.uneseulevoix.com. They need funds for this tour as well. They were charted to sing with Carole King in Sun Valley, ID’s jazz festival, but, curveball, it was canceled due to COVID. So, they have openings in their schedule. They are singing in churches, for backyard parties, even coffee shops while they are here.

Heads up. When life throws you a curveball, hit it head-on—first with prayer. Trust that God has a will for your life. Don’t give up. Don’t throw in the towel. Just buckle up for the ride. It may be a doozy, but He’ll get you through. Happy writing, singing, or whatever it is you do. ~Kaci

4 thoughts on “Help for Haiti

  1. Sorry your back is out of whack. I am sure God has a plan for the book you shelved and when it is time you will know it. Sounds like a great opportunity you have to teach music.

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