Twenty-year old Ernso is back in school after quitting grade three in 1999. “I was forced to quit because my parents had no means for me to continue and I have four younger brothers to think about.â€? Thanks to IDEJEN’s basic education and livelihood program at Rocher d’Horeb center in his community of Petit Place Cazeau, he is getting an education and learning skills that will help him to make a living. 

His father died when he was very young and his mother never remarried. Ernso left home as a teenager to help reduce the burden on his mom of caring for him and all his brothers, but he stays in touch and visits her often. He lives in Petit Place Cazeau with a few friends whose parents live abroad and send money back for them. It’s not a completely free ride because he is still responsible for paying for food and his own daily costs, but he is safe and comfortable with his friends. To earn money Ernso sells things, does work for people and offers his services. “I don’t have any means, I work for what people will give me.â€? 

A friend led him to the center and he liked the activities and programs that they offered. He was able to pick up his schooling and also started studying macramae. He is learning to make baskets, wall hangings and products that can sell in art boutiques. “They are also practical for holding stuff, and when I get really good I will be able to make furniture, too,� he says.

Ernso wants to work to earn money, and when he is stable hopes to marry and have children. He also feels a responsibility to give back:

“People knew me when I didn’t have anything, but now things are changing and when I have a little something I will help others.�

Indeed, a lot of things are changing in his life. Ernso admits that he didn’t have a lot of hope and lacked direction, but the center is helping him to make a plan for his life. He’s always been a good person who respects people, doesn’t steal or tease others, and now he is gaining confidence in himself and beginning to recognize his own personal value.