Union alumna Jennifer Bragg had only intended to visit Neply, Haiti, for one month after her spring 2013 graduation, but she soon realized that God had other plans.
Three months later, Bragg finds herself still in Neply, working with Haitian missions organization “myLifespeaks” as a therapy intern.
“I have fallen in love with these people and this place,” said Bragg said of the nation. “It has truly captured my heart; each day inspires me.”
Bragg’s position as a therapy intern allows her to work in many capacities.
She assists with the child feeding program “72:14,” which feeds children that are called “restaveks,” or child slaves.
She aids the infant feeding program and pregnant moms program and also participates in English tutoring.
“We are thrilled to have Jenn here working with us,” said Melissa Wilson, founder of myLifespeaks.
Wilson and her husband, Mike, started the organization in January 2012.
“With the help of Jen, we now have two physical therapy interns, two full-time American employees and 52 Haitian employees,” said Wilson.
Why Haiti, and what inspires Bragg to stay?
“Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well,” Bragg said, citing 1 Thessalonians 2:8.
“I can’t think of a better thing to do than to just live life alongside of the people you are around, no matter where you are,” Bragg said. As you do that, the Lord opens doors to share the best story in the world.
Seemingly worlds away from her native home of Birmingham, Ala., Bragg has settled into village life in Neply.
“Village life is completely different from anything I have ever experienced,” she said. “Everyone helps their neighbors and friends with raising kids or having food to eat. It’s very much a group effort.”
