Youthful Talent Will Benefit Young Lives In Haiti

Fifth and sixth grade church school students at Trinity Episcopal Church in Newtown are reaching out to help students that they have never met. Through the efforts of Trinity Church school minister Sue Vogelman and church school teachers Ben Toby, Priscilla Jones, and Mary and Rick Chamiec-Case, the young people are putting together a special talent show to take place Friday, April 30, at The Blue Z Coffee House, 127 South Main Street.

The event will run from 5 to 6:30 pm and will raise funds for the rebuilding of Ecole de Bon Samaritan (Good Samaritan School) in Carrefour, Haiti. The school, started in 1996 by an Episcopalian priest, Jean-Elie Millien, formerly of Stamford, was damaged beyond use in the January 12 earthquake.

“We would like to make enough at this fundraiser to purchase a tent so that classes can be restarted,” Ms Vogelman said. “I think that one costs between $400 and $500, and I think this might be an attainable goal.”

Another goal for Ecole de Bon Samaritan is to build a new school building, and any money raised at the talent show beyond that needed to purchase the tent will go to the rebuilding fund.

Donna Randle, the mother of twins Nicholas and Marie, who are part of the Trinity 5/6 church school class, said that there is much excitement by the youngsters.

“Auditions were the last two weekends in March, and rehearsals are underway. Every one of the 30 kids will participate somehow. We have standup comics who have written their own material, instrumentalists, vocalists, and all kinds of talent,” she said.

What is important about a project like this, said Ms Randle, is that “kids are not just learning the words, but walking the walk this year before confirmation.”

The public is invited to the free program on April 30, and donations are welcome. Light Caribbean fare will be available for purchase, prepared by the staff at The Blue Z.

For more information contact Sue Vogelman at 203-426-9070 or ChildrensMinister@TrinityNewtownCT.org.