webPrentice

International

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 1st, 2010

webPrentice International and the Vermont Haiti Project are thrilled to announce the formation of a new partnership to bring 21st century business training to earthquake-ravaged Haiti.

webPrentice, a newly-formed, Vermont-based nonprofit, is developing a program to provide instruction and training in web development, internet communications and marketing, and micro-enterprise skills in support of the new economy that will emerge from the dust of the January quake.

Donna Thomas, director of the Vermont Haiti Project, says: “VHP is enthusiastic about this partnership. For over 15 years Vermonters have been working directly with Haitian partners on education, community building, health care and clean water. The web skills training program can can build on this, through our experience and network of partners, to aid in building a new economy in Haiti. The goals of the program and the attitude of the webPrentice principals clearly align with our mission and goals.”

webPrentice, co-founded by Vermonters Jason Duquette-Hoffman, M.S., Kevin Hytten, Ed.D. and Chanon Bernstein, was formed to leverage web 2.0 and micro-enterprise skills in support of sustainable, grassroots economic development and civil society in Haiti with local spirit, but global access. “When Kevin and Jason came to me with this idea, I knew it was the right project, at the right time,” says Bernstein, director for new operations at webPrentice and a professional in international development and education. “My experience in Haiti reinforced my belief in the need for a project like this.”

“We believe the next Haitian economy will be built on a 21st century foundation, with a uniquely Haitian flavor. Because small enterprise is the engine of stable growth, we are choosing to focus our efforts and support on small entrepreneurs working in their own communities to build businesses with local clients, but global opportunity,” says Duquette-Hoffman, co-founder and executive director. “We are excited to bring our knowledge, skills and commitment to service to assist Haiti in its efforts to rebuild its society and economy. We are honored to be able to partner with an organization like the Vermont Haiti Project, with many years, deep roots and strong connections in Haiti. VHP has been a tremendous support, and we look forward to building this program with them.”

webPrentice will be holding a series of fundraising events around Vermont throughout the summer and into the fall. “Our goal is to get this up and running quickly,” says Duquette-Hoffman, “with the current situation in Haiti, now is the appropriate time to provide opportunities for Haitian people to learn and prepare for what is next. We will be planning a number of fun and exciting events around the state. We hope everyone will come, see what we are all about and join us as we work to help the people of Haiti!” All donations are tax-deductible.

In addition to monetary donations, webPrentice is seeking donations of operable laptops (2005 or newer) to configure for student use in the training program. “We know that we can effectively teach what we need to with older computers. Businesses that are cycling out their older machines could make a tremendous difference by donating them to us,” says co-founder Kevin Hytten, a higher education professional, web business owner and education and technology director for webPrentice.

For more information, to plan a fundraising event in your area or to donate, contact Jason Duquette-Hoffman at

(802) 989-1618, e-mail to Jason@webprentice.org, or visit the webPrentice website at www.webprentice.org.

58 Otterside Ct. Middlebury, VT 05753 | (802) 989-1618 | info@webprentice.org