FEBRUARY 2010 – Westside Newspaper
Following the major 7.0 earthquake in Haiti, John Marvin and Eric Ivanitsky decided to help in the disaster relief effort. Joining established relief aid agencies, the two WMS representatives quickly booked their flights and packed their bags for the devastated Caribbean nation in hopes of helping in any possible way.

Marvin, WMS Director of Advancement, was contacted soon after the earthquake by the nonprofit organization Convoy of Hope to deliver food and supplies to the people. He felt compelled to help as soon as he heard about the natural disaster, but when the relief agency asked for his help specifically, he knew he wanted to go to Haiti. “I know that not everyone can go, but I felt I had to do something.”

Marvin worked in the Caribbean doing disaster relief during hurricanes George, Jose, Debbie, and Lenny, as well as after the volcanic eruption in the island of Montserrat. He also brings an understanding of the Haitian culture through his involvement in Haitian church ministries.

Ivanitsky, WMS Spiritual Life Director, decided to serve after Marvin talked to him about his plans. “The people of Haiti are in a very desperate situation and I would like to go and do whatever I can to help them in the healing and recovery process,” comments Ivanitsky. He will be working with the Mennonite Central Committee, a nonprofit charitable organization focused on relief, development and peace.

Even though the two are going through different organizations, Marvin and Ivanitsky will be working together to get much needed food, water and medical supplies to the people.

Because of Marvin and Ivanitsky’s service, Western Mennonite School has set up a relief fund to raise support. The service trip is estimated to cost $3,000 each, which includes the cost of travel, a water filtration system and food. All are welcome to contact the school for more information and to donate. Any extra funds collected will be divided evenly between Convoy of Hope and Mennonite Central Committee. Both organizations were on site before the earthquake and will be there for many years to help with the rebuilding effort.

Stay updated on John Marvin and Eric Ivanitsky’s experience at www.westernmennoniteschool.org/haiti.