Why We Ride
WOMBAT riders gather to enjoy a week of cycling the great state of Michigan. They are equally committed to supporting 3 ministries in Haiti. Each rider raises donations for these ministries. Without the support of our WOMBAT riders, these vital ministries would not be possible. Every year during our WOMBAT ride, representatives from each of these ministries visit our WOMBAT ride for an evening of updates, current information, and future vision. Most of our riders know these ministry directors personally and feel a real connection to their missions. We ride with joy knowing we are making a difference in the lives of our Haitian friends. Please take a moment to read about each ministry. Donations are welcome from all interested individuals. Supporters of any rider are welcome to make donations using our payment systems on our "Donate" page.
Team Teach Haiti
It is the mission of Team Teach Haiti to inspire Haitian teachers to develop skills in best educational practices and to believe all students have the potential to become life-long learners and productive citizens in their community, nation, and global world. We desire to instill a strong educational value in all our teachers and their students. This is accomplished through extensive and timely teacher training opportunities presented by experienced, successful teacher trainers. Teachers who complete training with Team Teach Haiti will exemplify an understanding of the value of an education for all students. And they will commit to continue to grow as teachers.
Haiti Bible Institute
The need for pastors in Haiti is great to keep up with the rapid growth of the church. The Haiti Bible Institute is the primary training institution for Free Methodist pastors. The Ministerial Candidates are given a 4 year course of study which includes practical ministry experience. Students progress through the course work as a cohort of learners. Most of the teaching is done by local church pastors and church leaders. Guest instructors from the United States and Canada are warmly welcomed to come and supplement with special classes. Dr. Ron White, a WOMBAT rider, has traveled to Haiti as a guest instructor many times over the 20 plus years the school has been operating. The funds we raise for this school are desperately needed to keep the school in operation.
Vision 4 Word
Vision 4 Word" is a ministry in Haiti led by Kendra Trepus Luna from Davison, MI who has been doing missions in Haiti for many years. As many of you know, we have not been able to get into Haiti to do medical clinic ministry for several years now due to gang activity and national unrest.
The Dessalines eye and dental ministry is still on our radar, so for now we are sponsoring Vision 4 Word. Kendra has been doing missions in Haiti and is familiar with Medical clinics. The work in LeCayes is in the southern Peninsula where it is safer from the gangs. A church in Les Cayes holds a medical clinic there and does medical mobile trips up into the mountains as well. Even while Kendra and Vision 4 Word works in Les Cayes, they also are very aware of other new works like Vialet.