Email: Tony Baurichter

Dear Friends,

Nearly six months ago, when I first arrived in Miami, I met a 22-year-old we call “Haitian James.” Born in Haiti, he came to America to live with his aunt when he was about 4 years old, and is now a permanent resident of the United States.

Of all the people I have met over the last six months, James is one of my favorites. I think we have a bit of the same personality, so we get along very well. James started coming to the Bible study that I lead on Wednesday nights because one of his roommates invited him. Even though his roommate was arrested and is now in jail, James continues to come every Wednesday night. He is one of the most faithful attendees.

It has been great to get to know James during my time down here. I have tried to help him out with everything from questions about God to finances to girl problems (although I don’t know why he would listen to my advice about girls). Since James was born in Haiti, he does not have any immediate family in the United States, no one to look out for him. Although his aunt and cousin help him out as much as they can, James has no one to show him how to manage his finances, file his taxes (last year he made about $16,000 and had to go to H&R Block to file his income tax), or fill out the FAFSA. Although these are skills that you and I find relatively easy and straightforward, James has never had anyone really show him the ropes, show him how to use the system (and he’s by no means slow).

About three weeks ago, James earned his high school diploma, a huge milestone for him, by completing a Job Corps program. His passion is cooking, and he’s currently a cook at IHOP. He wants to get an associates degree in culinary arts. I’ve been helping him apply to college and fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Now, I don’t know if any of you have filled out a FAFSA lately, but that Web site and paperwork is a genuine maze of confusing links and questions. Luckily, when I filled one out, my mom was right there with me and showed me everything that I needed to do. Can you imagine trying to figure out how to apply for college or fill out the FAFSA without anyone showing you how to do it, especially if you’re not the quickest reader? None of James’ family has been to college, so there is no voice of experience to guide the way.

Last Thanksgiving I asked James what he was going to do for the holiday and he replied “nothing.” He had to work. The church that I attend was putting together Thanksgiving baskets so I set one aside and gave it to him for Thanksgiving. He was really touched and thanked me for everything that I had done for him. He then said something to me that touched me very much. He said, “If I had someone like you in my life years ago, I would be in such a better place than I am now.”

That is my prayer and my hope: that all of the kids, youth, and adults that I come in contact with throughout this year would be challenged to live for God and be able to say, years down the road, “If it weren’t for Tony’s help, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

Tony Baurichter