» By KATELYN HAMAKER – [email protected]
An earthquake of a 7.0 magnitude took the lives of over 300,000 people and devastated the third world country of Haiti on Jan. 12, 2010.
Within the next month, two of APSU’s current students, Zac Gillman and Mike Rainier, organized and developed today’s successful charity organization: ReLoveHaiti (formerly known as Show Haiti Some Love).
Knowing there was great need in Haiti, Gillman began this organization based on Mark 16:15 which states, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.”
“That simply states that no matter where we go or what we do, we should always be a living example of what Christ is,” Gillman said. “During every event, we live it out and bring many people together for the greater cause of being more Christ-like and helping the less fortunate.”
Their first benefit concert was held a mere month after the earthquake and raised over $1,600; this year their goal is to raise $7,000. Often see organizations raising money but the difference they make are not.
“We have decided to donate to Water Missions International so we can receive pictures and feedback from Haiti on exactly how we are making a difference,” Gillman said.
“This year we wanted to shift our focus towards rebuilding instead of relief. We have selected Water Missions International for the charity we will donate to. They specialize in bringing water purification systems to entire communities.”
ReLoveHaiti has made an impact on the Clarksville community and is growing rapidly.
Their website, www.relovehaiti.com, has several opportunities on ways to make a difference for Haiti as well as other organizations.
On Saturday, Feb. 18, ReLoveHaiti organized the second annual 5k and One Mile Fun Run. The run will take place at the Beachaven Winery at 9 am. Registration is available at www.relovehaiti.com.
The third-annual benefit concert will be held at the Riverview Inn in downtown Clarksville.
This concert will feature The Beautiful Refrain, Chris Crow, Bryce Merritt, Joel Crouse and there will also be a special surprise performance.
The entry fee is $10 at the door. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the show starts at 7 p.m. For more information, contact ReLoveHaiti at [email protected]. TAS
