SkillsUSA Massachusetts

Tragedy in Haiti – linked to the SkillsUSA Massachusetts family.

As we all know, the world suffered one of the greatest natural disasters in history last Tuesday, January 12, 2010. The 7.0 earthquake that was centered just outside Port-au-Prince imperiled the lives of all those in Haiti, including Britney Gengel; Massachusetts resident and cousin to John Steiner, who is a member of our state leadership team serving SkillsUSA a photographer on our Media Team.

Britney Gengel, age 20 was one of 14 members of the Lynn University, Boca Raton, Florida group who were there on a mission trip. All 14 were on site at the Hotel Montana when the quake struck, and Lynn University is reporting there is reason to believe that the four missing students, including Britney, and two faculty may be there still.

In the days since that tragedy, we have all been captivated by the stories of heroism, triumph, anguish and loss that have followed in the wake of this earthquake. And every day, the world rejoices for what good news has been broadcast out of the country.

SkillsUSA Massachusetts wishes to express our support to John Steiner and his family, the Gengels. We want them to know that this tragedy is not their tragedy alone. It affects us all. It affects people from around the world. And it impacts most severely those in Haiti itself – the people who call that country home.

Lynn University’s “Journey of Hope” students, including John’s cousin, Britney, went to Haiti to deliver hope. Eight have returned. And six, including Britney, remain missing. Britney’s family, Lynn University and SkillsUSA Massachusetts still have hope- hope that a miracle is in the making. Hope that the six are found safe and sound. And hope that many others too will be freed and reunited with loved ones around the world.

SkillsUSA Massachusetts, in support of John Steiner, his family; the Gengel’s and most especially Britney, is joining the world in seeking to alleviate the suffering in Haiti. To join the relief effort, SkillsUSA Massachusetts strongly encourages our chapters and members to support the efforts of The American Red Cross.

We also believe the “Text 90999 Project” is an appropriate and powerful way for an individual to make a personal contribution immediately to disaster relief efforts in Haiti. Text the word Haiti to 90999 and $10 will be charged to your phone bill and given to relief projects run through the Red Cross.

For additional ideas and information please visit the National SkillsUSA website. Messages of support for John Steiner and his family can be sent to kward@maskillsusa.org.