Shelley in Haiti: One woman’s quest for orphan prevention through job creation

by Shelley Jean, Karen Lacey, Douglas Glenn Clark

Shelley Jean traveled to Haiti determined to adopt an orphan she had discovered online. Although she was already the mother of two biological children, expanding her family by embracing a displaced child was, in part, a fulfillment of her compassionate Christian faith.

But when she witnessed the agony many Haitian women experienced when poverty—not lack of love—forced them to give up their children to orphanages, she was outraged.

Soon, a new mission blossomed. As she came to better understand and appreciate the people of Haiti, Shelley had a vision of creating jobs that would help some parents earn an income so that they could support their babies and raise them to become productive adults.

Despite her own domestic challenges and, at times, the doubts about God’s providence that arose after witnessing the devastation caused by earthquakes and hurricanes, Shelley’s trial-and-error approach took hold.

First, she taught a small group of mothers how to make artisanal products that she now markets worldwide. But she did not stop there.

Papillon Enterprise, which began as Apparent Project, now has a global reach that has been recognized and praised by Oprah, Vogue Magazine, The Gap, and designer Donna Karan.

But there were many sacrifices and defeats along the way. As Shelley sought to reshape the economic landscape of a small nation in dire need of help, she also restored her own ravaged beliefs so that she and her family could emerge stronger and with their faith intact.

This memoir is ideal for women of all faiths who know in their hearts that the cruel world can be transformed by love. For men, this unique search for truth sheds light on the undeniable power of the feminine spirit.

Genres: Nonfiction

208 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 5, 2017

Reviews

[Chin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent book. Judging from the cover, I was not expecting the ugly realities of poverty depicted by the author, but truly appreciated it. I also appreciated the personal stories the author laid bare. Throughout the novel, Shelley tells the stories of triumph, failure, and while always spending herself towards a worthy cause. She is the woman in the arena whose face is marred by dust, sweat, and blood. Upon completion I found myself thinking how many of us, including myself, have no excuse to help be part of the solution. To help make other lives better and in doing so be better people.

[Amy Moffitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shelley's memoir is a page turner that will capture your heart. Several times I got to the end of a chapter & just had to stop & let her words soak in. So beautiful, so honest, so hard. Of course, I couldn't stop for too long as I had to hear what else she has to say. I have visited Haiti. I have visited the artisans of Papillon. The place is full of light & life & love. I have met many of the people she writes about. This is a drop in the bucket. The stories are vast. Her knowledge is invaluable to everyone who has a heart to serve the poor. By the way, Mario's smoothie is a must have.

[Leah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What an extraordinary glimpse into life in Haiti and the life of a beautiful woman, inside and out! I'm off to buy one of everything at papillonmarketplace.com and work on my Trades of Hope business, in hopes that I will one day find myself in Haiti with that incredible organization!

[Jeanne Vogel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Inspirational

Inspirational and yet difficult to comprehend. The poverty and corruption are so widespread in this country. Is there a way out for t these beautiful people?

[Julie Helenius · Rating 3 out of 5]

Quick easy read, inspiring story of her desire and journey to make change in Haiti. I had the privilege to visit her shop, cafe and Apparent project while there.

[Cindy · Rating 2 out of 5]

It's encouraging to read about projects to keep families together rather than perpetuate separation and adoption among the poor