Haiti is a broken nation. It is a land of intense poverty, political instability, corruption, and massive unemployment, made much worse by the recent devastating earthquake. Yet this situation as been going on for generations, despite the millions of dollars that have been poured into the nation.

What can we do beyond relief that will break this cycle and help move this nation towards restoration?

In February 2011, after 2 ½ years of prayer and planning, Haiti Teen Challenge (HTC) opened its doors.

The mission is to train and mentor the young men of Haiti to become godly, servant leaders of integrity that will transform their country from within.

Why men? Over 80% of outreach and aid programs in Haiti are for women and children, young men’s issues are not being confronted and the challenges of the men increases the burdens and sufferings of the women and children.

Haiti Teen Challenge is lead by Executive Director, Dr. Julio Volcy. Julio was born and grew up in what is a “common family” in Haiti, a son of a father with 18 children from eight women. He understands what it is to be a young man in Haiti with no role models, no direction, no purpose, but at 17 his life changed when a missionary began to mentor him in life skills, character and integrity.

After completing his education in the US he has returned to Haiti to mentor and to spur growth in young men; growth through transformation in their relationship with God, restoration in their valued purpose, commitment to service to others and integrity in stewardship.

Julio has set the example of community transformation with his own village. He has provided the leadership and resources needed to empower the members of his community to construct a safe water system, access electricity, and build a health clinic and a school.

Haiti Teen Challenge has been called to the poorest country of the Western Hemisphere where God has assembled a team of Haitian men to disciple and equip young Haitian men, so that they can disciple and equip other young Haitian men, so that they can change their nation.