Youth Ministry
In Haiti, the Salesians' educational and pastoral project has its source in Don Bosco, who was "a sign and bearer of God's love, especially for young people." Youth ministry aims at the integral development of young people, directing them towards Christ and helping them to become "good Christians and honest citizens."
Youth Centers
Throughout his ministry at Valdocco, Don Bosco always sought to create a place where children could run, jump, and play while being formed into good Christians. This was demonstrated most fittingly in the Oratory of Valdocco, a home, playground, church, and school for the children that came to be with him. The Salesians of Haiti continue the tradition of the Oratory by providing youth centers and youth groups at nearly all of their communities. Hundreds of children come each week to play, pray, learn, and grow. Games are organized; talks are given on themes such as the catechism, morality, human formation, and faith; children learn music; fun is had by all.
Vacation Activities
Each summer the Salesians offer several weeks of activities for the children and young people who attend their centers. The days consist of recreation, cultural activities, and human and religious formation. Workshops are also offered throughout these weeks in subjects such as Computers, Cooking and Pastries, Music, Floral Arts, Plastic Arts, English, Crafts, Dance, Electricity, Drawing, Macramé, Telephone Troubleshooting, Embroidery, Cosmetology, Sewing, Painting, and Tiling.
Football (Soccer) Schools
Sports are a means not only to healthy living but also to social and human development. Operating at Les Cayes, Thorland, and Fort-Liberté, Football Schools guide children towards physical fitness while helping to promote their integral development. Each school possesses 120 students, divided into six age groups. The participants have a regular schedule of training, games, and other formation.
