Impact Report - January 2026
- Keith Cobell
- 5 hours ago
- 4 min read
Momentum, Growth, and Character in Action
January is often about fresh starts—and in Haiti, it’s also about showing up with consistency, grit, and hope. Because of your continued support, Extollo began 2026 with strong momentum across training, construction, and operations. In classrooms, on job sites, and behind the scenes, our teams lived out the values that define who we are: teamwork, responsibility, integrity, excellence, discipline, initiative, and respect.
These character traits aren’t posters on a wall—they’re woven into every lesson taught, every project completed, and every challenge faced.
Training That Builds Skills and Character
January marked the graduation of two Level 1 Trade School classes—Masonry and Electrical—each one a powerful reminder of why hands-on, values-based training matters.
Our Masonry Level 1 students demonstrated impressive technical growth and academic focus. Several graduates stood out not only for their high scores, but for their discipline and responsibility in the classroom and on site. A new final exam introduced this session confirmed deeper mastery of the material, reinforcing Extollo’s commitment to excellence in training. Graduates are now being closely followed as we identify on-the-job training opportunities and future instructor potential—an important step toward long-term sustainability and Haitian-led leadership.
Later in the month, Electrical Level 1 students took on a real-world challenge: completing the full electrical installation for HHA’s new guardhouse. From reading technical plans to digging a 100-foot trench and safely activating the system, students applied their skills with precision and care. This project required teamwork, initiative, and a deep respect for safety and quality. The moment the power came on was more than a technical success—it was a milestone of confidence and pride for the entire class.
Learning That Serves the Community
Beyond the classroom, January included hands-on electrical repairs across multiple buildings on our neighbor's, (Holistic Haitian Alliance - HHA) campus. Working side by side, instructors and graduates resolved long-standing issues and identified additional needs that will be addressed in the coming weeks. These efforts reflect integrity—doing the work thoroughly, not just quickly—and respect for the people who rely on these facilities every day.
Looking ahead, planning is underway for two new practicum projects in 2026: a concrete pad for HHA’s gas tanks and a burn pit to improve waste management. These projects will continue to build graduate skills while strengthening local infrastructure—training that serves both people and place.
Pictured Above: Electrical Instructor Dan offered Geralson one-on-one training. This opportunity sparked both skill and confidence. After repairing receptacles and even handling live-wire fixes across the HHA campus, Geralson became a powerful example of what hands-on learning can do. His younger brother is now eager to join the next electrical class, a reminder that Extollo's work strengthens buildings, families, and the future all at once.
Former Students Becoming Leaders
One of the most encouraging moments of January was the appointment of a former Welding & Metal Fabrication graduate as an Assistant Trainer for the 2026 cohort. This transition—from student to teacher—beautifully reflects Extollo’s long-term vision: empowering Haitians to lead, train, and multiply impact within their own communities.
It’s a powerful example of initiative, responsibility, and respect for the knowledge and experience gained through the program.
Building with Care and Precision
On the construction side, January was marked by steady, disciplined progress. From site inspections and roofing assessments to backfilling, soil testing, tilt-up panel installations, and equipment coordination, the team worked methodically to prepare for future builds.
Each task—whether lifting concrete panels, repairing vehicles, or planning infrastructure—required careful coordination and shared accountability. This kind of behind-the-scenes work may not always be visible, but it is essential. It reflects excellence in execution and integrity in stewardship.
Navigating Challenges with Wisdom
Security challenges at the Bercy campus continued to limit access following earlier incidents. While the site remains closed for safety reasons, leadership has continued coordinating with local authorities and adjusting operations to protect staff and assets. These decisions are never easy, but they are guided by responsibility and respect for human life.
Meanwhile, administrative teams in Haiti and the U.S. worked diligently to renew contracts, manage payroll, track finances, coordinate logistics, support donors, and strengthen internal systems. This steady, faithful work ensures Extollo operates with transparency and care—honoring the trust you place in us.
Why Your Support Matters
Every graduate celebrated, every trench dug, every panel lifted, and every system repaired tells the same story: your support is making this possible. You are helping build skills, character, and opportunity in Haiti—one student, one project, one relationship at a time.
As we move further into 2026, we invite you to lean in with us. Share these stories with friends and family. Follow along more closely. And if the opportunity ever arises, consider visiting Haiti to see this work firsthand. When you do, you’ll find a community shaped by teamwork, grounded in responsibility, committed to integrity, striving for excellence, practicing discipline, stepping forward with initiative, and treating every person with respect.
Thank you for being part of Extollo’s story. We are deeply grateful—and excited for what’s ahead.
Join the Crew
Monthly partners—what we call the Extollo Crew—provide the steady foundation that keeps our training programs moving forward. Their support allows us to plan, to pay instructors reliably, and to offer students a learning environment marked by dignity and consistency. Join the group of monthly supporters and gain behind the scenes invitations below!
