New Staff Members in 2011

As we come to the close of 2011, we look back with gratefulness for the new staff members who have joined us this year. Glenda and Andrew Bashor went through our Reservist training in Fort Worth, Texas and have now joined us to help spearhead the new Refuge of Hope project. Hope Force envisions a mobile air dome that will provide housing and support services to disaster workers so they can continue to serve those affected by crisis. One of the largest gaps in effective disaster response is the provision of housing for responders. The unit will provide housing and a base of operation to expedite immediate and long-term disaster response efforts for Hope Force Reservists and volunteers from a variety of organizations. Find out more about the Refuge of Hope.

Francine O'Connor has over 30 years of experience in the humanitarian arena and is now coordinating the Hope Force Child Sponsorship Program for Sous Savanne, Haiti. Francine acquired an interest in global humanitarian needs while growing up in the city of Geneva, Switzerland, where both of her parents worked with international aid organizations. While working overseas, Francine met her husband David. They have three children and recently celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary.

The O'Connor family now lives in Texas. Francine's background in Public Relations coupled with a heart for people is serving her well in her current role. "I have a special desire to work with children," she says, "and am enjoying the aspect of the Child Sponsorship Program which allows a very effective means of linking the families of this village with sponsors in the western world." The Child Sponsorship Program now provides food security for 82 children and their families in the village of Sous Savanne.

Our commitment to serve the people of Haiti and Sous Savanne has grown stronger with each undertaking. Hope Force International now has a long-term team in Haiti to assist with ongoing initiatives. New HFI staff members, René and Marianne Lako, represent "boots on the ground" in Haiti ? with the goal of receiving teams and facilitating projects. An initial preparation and set up phase was undertaken from August 21 - September 28. The Lakos then began the long-term phase of our work October 14. The Lakos have worked with international aid efforts for over 30 years.

During the recent outbreak of tornados across the USA, the Lakos were deployed and filled vital roles of leadership, helping to open up pathways of service to many of our Reservists. Additionally, Rene and Marianne served in Haiti for most of 2010 -- living in tents for several weeks in the initial aftermath of the earthquake. Both went back to Haiti with Hope Force teams in January and April 2011. You can go to Haiti with Hope Force!