Christel House Blog

The Colts and Christel House

2010-02-05T10:14:00.010-06:00

The Colts have been great friends and supporters of Christel House. Back in August 2000, the Colts played the Steelers in the American Bowl in Mexico City. During their trip, the team visited with children from Christel House Mexico and presented a commemorative football used in the game that is still on display today. (Picture: Colts owner Jim Irsay with other staffers and Christel House families and students)

In 2009, Peyton Manning kicked off Project 18 at the Christel House Academy in Indianapolis where the students learned about healthy living, nutritional choices and staying active. Also last year, students from South Africa and India enjoyed a tour of the Colts practice facility and saw the last Super Bowl Trophy up close.

Just last week, a few young Christel House artists had the tour of a lifetime and their artwork now hangs in Lucas Oil Stadium.

On behalf of over 3000 children and over 250 staff and teachers around the world, GO COLTS!!!

Christel House helps Haiti

2010-02-01T13:26:00.002-06:00

Many of our friends and supporters have asked if we have any direct connection with those affected by the devastation in Haiti. As one of our students put it, "Yes, we are directly connected. We're members of the same human race and we call the same planet home". We'd add that our children and their families have experienced similar hardship and poverty in their own way.

All our children and staff learn that at Christel House "We share, we care and we make a difference".

Our Learning Centers around the world are all doing different things in response. At Christel House South Africa, our students learned about the tragedy, held a moment of silence, and lit candles - one for the mothers, one for the fathers, and one for the children of Haiti. They also formed the country's name to let them know they are on our hearts and minds.

From collecting items, donating to relief efforts and holding candlelight vigils - we encourage you to continue to support the people of Haiti.

A Tour of a Lifetime

2010-01-29T08:15:00.004-06:00

As the Colts prepare for the upcoming Super Bowl, it was a fantastic time for a behind-the-scenes tour of Lucas Oil Stadium.

Besides being the home of the Indianapolis Colts, the Stadium is also known for its retractable roof, grand entrance, larger-than-life hallways and...Christel House Artwork!

RCI, a new partner of the Colts, asked Christel House Academy students to create a painting showing the benefits of a good education which incorporated Christel House, the Colts and RCI. It is now on display in the north entry ramp of the stadium.

Not only did the students get to see their painting, they also toured the press box and suites, walked through the tunnel onto the playing field and learned about all the behind-the-scenes activity that happens on game day.

Many thanks to both RCI and the Indianapolis Colts for their support. Last summer, our Culver Campers got to hold the last Super Bowl Trophy. Let's go get another one - Go Blue!

Kids helping kids

2010-01-25T12:18:00.005-06:00

It may have been a blustery winter day outside, but on January 14th the atmosphere was anything but cold inside Christel House Academy. The joy of giving kept everyone warm as students in both the Builders and K Kids clubs worked along side Christel House volunteers and staff to make fleece blankets for the patients of the Peyton Manning Children's Hospital.

In all, a crew of 28 people handcrafted 15 blankets to donate to the patients of the hospital. Hopes of bringing cheer to those fighting illness was evident as students discussed how the children will enjoy the bold colors, shapes and patterns of the cozy fleece blankets.

Afterwards, Christel House staffers treated their volunteers to pizza and then made their way down to the gym to cheer on the boys' 5th and 6th grade basketball team. A fun time was had by all. Learn more about volunteering at Christel House.

Academy students visit Children's Museum

2010-01-14T15:41:00.003-06:00

Earlier today, fourth grade students at Christel House Academy supported the Children�s Museum of Indianapolis in the dedication of the new Mildred S. Compton School Services Wing. The new wing includes a special entrance for school groups and a sack lunch area.

Mildred Compton was a former CEO and President of the Children�s Museum who exemplified excellent leadership and passion towards children and for the museum. Christel House Academy is happy to be a part of such an exciting time for the Children�s Museum and appreciate another great organization with a commitment to learning and transforming the lives of children and their families.

For more, be a fan of Christel House on Facebook and be a fan of the Children's Museum on Facebook.

Christel House Choir has its first CD

2010-01-12T09:54:00.008-06:00

The elementary Choir from CHMX taped their first CD.

The students experienced the process of preparing themselves through rehearsals to elaborate a formal CD.

Experts from "Formaci�n Musical" came to the school and transformed the dining room into a recording studio. This was a unique experience to our children. They prepared their vocies with different techniques and by developing different strategies to conduct their vocal skills that the music teacher Andrea C. S�nchez learnt at the Creating Artistry workshop at Butler Univeristy.

We hope to share with you soon this musical material that the Choir from CHMX prepared for everyone!

CHMX visited the Mexico City Zoo

2010-01-08T10:29:00.005-06:00

Christel House Mexico received an invitation from the Mexico City Government to a guided visit to the Chapultepec's Zoo. The invitation was in recognition of an art project that students from CHMX participated and the drawings from our students were chose to be exposed at the Z�calo screen.

The Chapultepec�s Zoo opened its doors only for our school, it was a great opportunity for students and teachers to interact and socialize. Moreover, curricular activities related with the Science program were planned making emphasis on the importance of taking care of endangered animals, as well as research work related to ecosystem and environment preservation.

Volunteer in your Snuggie

2009-12-26T00:49:00.001-06:00

That's right folks! Once the holiday 'buzz' winds down, sit back, relax and volunteer for Christel House.

Back in August we announced that you could volunteer for Christel House from your phone. Since then, over 4,500 people have taken over 35,000 actions to help Christel House and other great organizations via The Extraordinaries mobile volunteering application. Now you can be Extraordinary from your computer as well.

We're asking you to use your down time this holiday season to send an encouraging message to our children around the world or tag some photos and help index our digital archives.

Click here to download the iPhone application or click here to start now from your computer!

Tis the Season to Learn to Give

2009-12-24T01:41:00.002-06:00

Where did you learn to give? Did you do chores at home as a child? Help a family member or neighbor with a project? Maybe you observed your parents or other friends give to a worthy cause.

The parents and teachers at Eagle Elementary in Zionsville, Indiana thought that students might be interested in a more purposeful learning approach around philanthropy. They were right.

30 students jumped at the chance and enrolled in the "First Friday Philanthropy Club" where children ages 7-10 (2nd - 4th grade) hear from speakers, learn about different ways to give, explore global and local issues and determine how they are going to make the world a better place.

Christel House was atop the agenda at their latest meeting.

Our staff shared about the issues of poverty, our schools around the world, and what people can do to help children in need. We explored the meaning of 'community' and how we all need to give of our time, talent and treasure to strengthen that community, whether it's local or global. The children then colored people-paper-chains, donated art supplies and made blankets for our students at Christel House.

We appreciate their efforts and those of all our contributors around the world. You too can support Christel House through donating, volunteering, and spreading awareness of the needs of our children.

If you're interested in having one of our staff speak to a group or at an event, please contact us.

From all of us and the over 3000 children we serve around the world, have the Happiest of Holidays!

Experience the Magic of India

2009-12-17T10:58:00.003-06:00

Join Christel House International as we travel to India February 20-24, 2010. We'll start with an exciting sightseeing tour of historic and beautiful Bangalore City. Then, we'll spend a full day at Christel House India where we'll tour the facility, work on projects with the students and visit the areas that they call home. Finally, we'll enjoy a full-day field trip with the students to the palaces at Mysore.

For more details, download the trip packet below. Reserve your spot today by contacting Mandi Melangton at mmelangton@christelhouse.org or 317-464-2341.

2010IndiaItinerary.pdf

CH Mexico students take HIGH PROFILE trips!

2009-12-14T12:29:00.005-06:00

Last week was a busy one for Christel House Mexico students.

First, 30 children were selected to share their artwork at the National Palace in Mexico City. In addition to their wonderful work, the National Palace hosts the President's offices, Federal Treasury and the National Archives.

Additionally, 80 students visited Los Pinos and took part in the Christmas Celebration with the President and First Lady of Mexico!

It was quite a treat for all of the students involved. Want to see more artwork? We're sharing it on Facebook - Become a Fan!

For more, follow us on Twitter and see photos on Flickr!

Watanabe High School

2009-12-08T15:38:00.004-06:00

Earlier this year, Indianapolis lost an incredible citizen, business and community leader and former Lilly executive, Gus Watanabe. Shortly thereafter, we announced that the new high school being planned for Christel House Academy would be named in his honor�Watanabe High School.

Click here to support Watanabe High School and when prompted, designate your gift to support Christel House Academy � writing �Watanabe High School� in the comments section of the donation process. Remember that all gifts are matched dollar for dollar by Christel DeHaan, and that Eli Lilly and Company employees and retirees may be eligible for additional matching funds

Please see the excerpt below from a letter written in support of the campaign by Ambassador Randall Tobias, Chairman Emeritus, Eli Lilly and Company, Chair of the Capital Campaign and close friend of Gus Watanabe.

Dear Friends,

Christel House Academy is located on Indianapolis� near south-side, and serves a high-needs population of more than 450 children, 89% receiving free or reduced lunches. The school�s 2009 ISTEP scores showed 74.25% of students passing both the language arts and math sections of the exam. This compares to a 49.9% passing rate of Indianapolis Public Schools. The Academy�s attendance rate is 96.8% and 95.5% of its students return following the summer break. After accomplishing so much, we (and our many supporters) feel these students deserve the opportunity to continue their education in a high school with high academic aspirations and an emphasis on tertiary educational goals. That is what the Watanabe High School can accomplish.

It is impossible to measure Gus Watanabe�s impact on our community. He was a savvy businessman, meticulous scientist and caring physician, mentor and friend. He believed strongly in the importance of preparing young people with a cutting edge curriculum focused on the skills necessary to succeed in the 21st Century workplace. That�s one of the reasons he was a founding board member of Christel House. Gus recognized that because Christel House Academy students often lacked role models and stable home environments, an effective character development program was essential to support them during their vulnerable adolescent years, and help them become solid citizens.

Gus exemplified those qualities we want our young people to display, and Christel House Academy will use his example to inspire and motivate them. Every student who graduates from this school and becomes a productive citizen will honor Gus� memory. I can�t think of a more fitting tribute. I hope that this initiative will touch your heart as much as it touched mine.

Sincerely,

Ambassador Randall Tobias

Chairman Emeritus, Eli Lilly and
Company Campaign Chair, Open a Door Campaign Watanabe High School

Note to Lilly Employees or Retirees:
1. Please make checks payable to Christel House Academy
2. Apply for matching gift credit online and indicate gifts are for Christel House Academy (CHA)

Please take a moment to write a brief memory about Gus using the comments section below. You can do this whether or not you financially support Watanabe High School.

If you have questions or want to discuss naming opportunities at the school, contact Ken Sheetz, Chief Development Officer at Christel House at 317-464-2086 or ksheetz@christelhouse.org.

Visit by filmmaker Bob Compton

2009-12-04T03:18:00.003-06:00

Mr. Bob Compton, a filmmaker from Indianapolis visited Christel House India recently. Bob's visit included a tour of the facility, activities with students and a discussion with staff around educational standards and the positive results that Christel House India is producing. See more about Bob and his documentary efforts around education globally and in the US.

UPS visit CHMX and Donates Books

2009-12-02T13:46:00.003-06:00

UPS came to our school and read to Elementary First Grade students.

The activity lasted and hour, they interacted with the students and shared their readings. UPS staff also donated richly-illustrated texts of fiction and nonfiction books to our library. We believe these type of activities are important in order to help our students feel confident and also eager to read more.

At CHMX we believe that Reading is an important tool for students to encourage and approach any type of Reading as they would that any book designed for children.

We want to express our deepest thanks for sharing their time with our children. It was a pleasure for us to receive their visit and we feel very happy for the books that were donated to our library.

Help Wanted - Join the team!

2009-11-19T09:31:00.007-06:00

Are you a college student or recent graduate looking to break into the professional world? Our intern program gives students real-world experience with a fast-paced and reputable global nonprofit.

Christel House interns produce tangible results and work with top industry professionals. They're given real projects that move the organization forward. They are also given the freedom to use their creative energy for good, not to mention - they help end poverty.

Our internships are designed to build your experience, expertise and resume. They are unpaid and we're happy to help secure college credit.

Apply now!

Marketing and Communications
Fundraising and Special Events
Graphic Design and Web Development

Position responsibilities, schedule, and total hours are flexible. Questions? Contact nhand@christelhouse.org!

Dell Visitors

2009-11-17T00:55:00.005-06:00

Mr. Ganesh Lakshminarayanan, Managing Director, Dell International Service celebrates his birthday with the children of Christel House India on 10th October 2009.

L.A. throws a Party to End Poverty!

2009-11-16T08:20:00.005-06:00

Our friends in LA are throwing a bash and YOU should be there!

After months of planning, it�s my pleasure to cordially invite you to our Christel House Fundraiser hosted by The Network Of Indian Professionals LA-OC on Nov 21. Please join us for a spectacular evening on the skydeck of the Shade Hotel. From a fantastic sunset to the delicious cocktails, we invite you to come discover this beautiful gem in Manhattan Beach.

The Network of Indian Professionals (Net IP) is a professional non-profit organization, dedicated to the overall achievement and advancement of South Asian professionals. It is a leading organization for South Asians, recognized by political, civic, and community leaders across North America. It has also become the unequivocal voice for those South Asians who want to excel in every aspect of society! The four pillars of our organization are Professional Development, Cultural Awareness, Political Awareness, and Community Service.

Christel House is an amazing international children�s organization that is ending extreme poverty for children in five countries including India, South Africa, Mexico, Venezuela and the U.S. We�re excited to help them in educating and empowering their young, talented students and look forward to seeing you there! For more information, please visit the event website.

You don�t have to be in LA to help in our party for a cause! We encourage you to consider donating your ticket even if you can�t attend. We will miss you but definitely appreciate all your help! While, we certainly are a network of Indian professionals, we invite everyone of all backgrounds to join in our bash!

For more information about the event or Net-IP, please don�t hesitate to contact me. Tulika12@gmail.com.

Thank you!

Tulika

Same Old Spirit in Bright New Digs

2009-11-12T08:13:00.003-06:00

Dr. Deborah Bender, of the University of North Carolina, visited the new Christel House South Africa this summer and shares the impact of her visit...

As the plane lifted from the tarmac at Atlanta�s airport on July 21, 2009 and banked to the right, I knew that I was headed back to Cape Town. I had been there two years ago, in fall 2007, when I served as the Faculty Director for the University of North Carolina�Cape Town Honors Program. Then, I had the opportunity to work with a group of youth from The Christel House School on a pilot service-learning project focused on reducing HIV/AIDS related stigma. I was returning in 2009 on a related research project, but I knew in my heart that the real purpose of my trip was to return to Christel House and greet those remarkable young people again.

As the car that I was riding in passed through the main gate of Christel Houses� new campus just outside Cape Town proper, I wondered if the youth I had worked with would remember me. I wondered, too, if I would recognize each of them � and remember their names! First, a tour of the new facility was in order. I couldn�t believe the space and the light and the lover that the faculty and staff seemed to shower � even more than on the children � on the new building. I had to admit�it was beautiful. Then, not expecting it at all, I spotted Sipho, kicking a soccer ball around the school yard with three of his friends. Hugs! He had grown � but we both were a little shy at greeting each other again. His friends called and we went to see the dining hall. As I walked out, there was Martha, arms open. She must have known � she completely surprised me. She introduced me to a friend of hers and we quickly became a happy threesome. Ronald, Sharon and Eunice invited me to the teacher�s room for a bite of lunch. I felt right at home, perhaps because of their graciousness, perhaps because I am a teacher myself.

After the luncheon energy boost, we went to meet the members �Sharing Our Secrets� project. Home coming doesn�t do it justice! It was so wonderful to see them again � and to received their thanks and hugs just for having come back to visit. It was my pleasure! Miss Eunice coaxed a story from each one of them and I marveled at how much they had grown and matured in two years. Sihle told me about having spent a week at a partner school in Stellenbosch. She had addressed the school�s entire student body telling them how she had learned the worth of respect for all people, no matter what their racial background. Banele told me that he was hooked on science and was thinking of becoming a scientist. Sanelisiwe recalled her favorite book in which two preteen girls became close friends despite the different places they had come from. She told me she hoped she would be able to travel like I do and meet people from other places in the world one day. Maybe she will be a teacher, too, she added, almost an after thought. What a joy to see the fruits of the nurturing that staff, teachers and counselors of Christel House had produced.

All good things must come to an end, and soon this afternoon, too, grew to a close. I left the small gifts that I had brought with each of them � a new cloth zipper pencil case, a brightly colored note fresh notebook, and a foot long chocolate Tootsie Roll. You know what the favorite was! Hugs and warm wishes that coincidence would again bring us together ended the day.

(photo courtesy of Deborah Bender)

New High School in Indianapolis!!!

2009-11-10T07:22:00.007-06:00

Today at 3:30 PM Christel House will hold the official ground-breaking ceremony for the new Christel House Academy-Watanabe High School, the newest charter high school in Indiana.

Christel House in Indianapolis is expanding - More The Indianapolis Star Galleries

In 2002, based on the results of ISTEP tests administered three weeks after school opened, Christel House Academy ranked as the worst-performing school in Indiana, clearly demonstrating how far behind these students were. Today, the Academy's ISTEP scores have increased to where 74.25% recently passed both parts of the test compared to the Indiana state average of 71.4% and the IPS average of 49.9%. Learn more.

The school will eventually serve 240 students in grades 9-12 and seek a 90% graduation rate.

Christel House Academy Profile
Full Indianapolis Star front page article

Keep up with us and our students! Be a fan on Facebook and follow us on Twitter!

Transguard team visits Christel House India

2009-11-06T01:09:00.003-06:00

Mr. Mike McGeever, Managing Director, Ms. Caroline McGeever and Mr. Mark Povey, General Manager- Marketing and Events - Transguard Group, http://www.transguardgroup.com/ spends two days at Christel House India. In a dream come true opportunity, six young students of Christel House India have been selected to participate in a summer football camp organized by the Transguard Elite Sporting Academy (TESA), Dubai. The six were chosen in an exhibition match played at the school grounds during the recent visit to Bangalore by Mr. Povey, the Transguard Group Marketing Head (Transguard Group is a part of the Emirates Group and has a major shareholding in TESA) and head of TESA. TESA is a football and rugby academy and a centre of excellence providing academic and sporting scholarships for talented youngsters from around the world. The six students will be put through a rigorous training schedule in Dubai in the summer of 2010.

Visit by students from University of Neu Ulm, Germany

2009-11-06T00:01:00.002-06:00

30 MBA students from University of Neu Ulm, Germany http://www.hs-neu-ulm.de/ visited Christel House India on 17th September 09. They volunteered their time at the school for 3 days.

Flashback: 10th Anniversary in Mexico!

2009-10-30T07:58:00.003-05:00

In late October of last year we celebrated our 10th Anniversary! Several friends joined us at Christel House Mexico in Mexico City for the festivities including a tour and performances from the kids! (See photos)

If you're ever in the neighborhood or will be visiting near one of our Learning Centers (Bangalore, Cape Town, Mexico City, Caracus or Indianapolis) please contact us, stop by and say hello!

Also, we are organizing a group trip to visit Christel House India, February 20 - 26, 2010. Interested? Email Mandi Melangton at mmelangton@christelhouse.org!

CH South Africa gets help from visiting Tar Heels

2009-10-20T07:48:00.006-05:00

Greetings from the Southern Hemisphere! My name is Diana Iglesias and I am the newest intern at Christel House South Africa. I arrived here about a month ago as a participant with the Honors Semester Abroad in Cape Town through the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. If any Capetonians have been wondering about the recent Tar Heel invasion of the city, it�s due to the fact that myself and the rest of the students have been doing internships with businesses and NGOs throughout the greater metropolitan area (from the City Bowl, to Ottery, to Khayelitsha), in addition to attending class once a week at the University of Cape Town.

Alexis Ivey, another student on the program, and I were placed at CHSA to work on projects with different departments in the school. Alexis is working with a social worker and plans to develop an anger management workshop series, while I will be partnering with the Arts and Culture teachers. Throughout the next term, I will assist with auditions and rehearsals for Annie Jr. the Musical and help begin a Drama Society at the school. Everyone is very eager about introducing creative expression into the new facilities at CHSA, through murals being painted around the school and the introduction of theatre, dance, and music clubs.

It is a very exciting time to be at Christel House � the buildings are brand-new, the campus has a gorgeous view of the surrounding mountains, and the students are brilliant! Just the other day a group of 5th and 6th graders showed me their ability to do the Macarena and told me all about the local food. I was born in Puerto Rico and spent the last two summers in Honduras, so when they proceeded to sing me a song in Spanish with impeccable pronunciation, I was floored. They are all thriving in the environment CHSA provides and never hesitate to show you just how stunningly smart they are. It is absolutely fascinating to listen as they open their minds and spirits to you. Currently, the school is on spring break (yes, it�s getting warmer here) and I can�t wait to resume working with the wonderful people I have met. Look out for photos and videos in the near future!

Motorcycle Ride 'Brakes the Cycle' of Poverty

2009-10-13T14:19:00.011-05:00

The sound of roaring engines cut through the brisk fall air on Saturday morning, October 10, as Christel House hosted its first annual "Braking the Cycle Ride" to help children break the cycle of poverty. The police-escorted 100+ mile trip saw 93 riders go from the Christel House Academy, on the near-south side of Indianapolis, to Brown County and back. Registrants received breakfast, lunch and a t-shirt and collectively raised over $15,000 for our students in need around the globe! It was an amazing, fun-filled day that truly made a WORLD of difference!

1st Annual Braking the Cycle Ride from Christel House on Vimeo.

Watch the video, see the photos on Flickr, view our live tweets from the event on Twitter and don't miss the clips on Steel Horse TV (available Monday 10/19)!

A HUGE thank you to our presenting sponsor, Hensley Legal Group and to Gov. Mitch Daniels for co-chairing the event!

A big thank you to all our sponsors including 97.1 Hank FM, 1070 ESPN The Fan, BlackInk IT, Kroger, All-American Picnic Co., Shiel Sexton, Blackburn Architects, State Farm, Life Settlement Advisors, Platinum Properties, Schmidt Associates, Indianapolis Southside Harley-Davidson & Buell, Harley-Davidson of Indianapolis, Blimpie, Endangered Species Chocolate, Fast Advertising, Valenti-Held, Wicked Motorsports and Pit Bull Leather Company.

Thanks to all involved for a great event! If you're interested in riding or sponsoring next year, please contact us!

CH Academy Paints the Town

2009-10-13T10:59:00.005-05:00

An empty, bare wall of a warehouse on Indianapolis' near south side is bustling with students and paint brushes. Christel House Academy and the Eiteljorg Museum have teamed up to paint a mural at 1201 South Meridian St. (See Google Map view)

Native American photographer and instillation artist Will Wilson (Dine) directs the project which includes tracing and organizing students and volunteers to join forces in creating the beautiful finished product. The mural celebrates the "Indians of Indiana" and is part of the multicultural education program at Christel House Academy.

The mural will be unveiled at the site this Thursday, October 15 at 2:30 p.m.

Read more from the Eiteljorg

A big thanks to all who volunteered their time and resources to make this project happen, including, but not limited to...

Home Depot (Southport store)
Cardwell Do-It-Best
MacAllister Rentals
PPG Porter Paints (Southport store)
PPG Porter Paints (Downtown Indianapolis store)
Lowe�s (Greenwood store)
Sherwin Williams (Greenwood store)
ICI Paints (Lafayette Road store)
MAB Paints (S. East Street store)
Paradise Caf� and Bakery (Greenwood)