Christel DeHaan was not just a successful entrepreneur; she was a visionary philanthropist dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty through education. Her journey from a business magnate to the founder of Christel House International, a global nonprofit organization, speaks volumes about her commitment to underprivileged communities worldwide.
Christel DeHaan was born in 1942 in Germany during World War II. Growing up in the aftermath of the war, she witnessed the severe impacts of poverty and instability, which shaped her perspective on the importance of opportunity and support. In her twenties, Christel immigrated to the United States with a spirit of resilience and determination.
After settling in the U.S., she co-founded Resort Condominiums International (RCI) in 1974, pioneering a new business model in the timeshare industry. Christel’s innovative approach and dedication turned RCI into a highly successful enterprise, positioning her as a prominent figure in the business world. However, despite her business success, she never lost sight of the struggles of those in less fortunate circumstances, which influenced her next chapter as a philanthropist.
After selling RCI, Christel DeHaan’s life took a transformative turn. A visit to meet a nun caring for orphans and abandoned children in Mexico City became a pivotal moment. Gabriel Oropeza, former President of RCI Latin America and now Board Chair at Christel House Mexico, recalls asking Christel for a donation to support the children. What started as a simple request turned into something far greater—a newfound mission that would redefine her life.
Christel realized that breaking the cycle of poverty required more than just financial aid. It demanded a comprehensive approach—combining education, nutrition, healthcare, character development, family support, and career guidance. This realization became the foundation for her vision to create lasting impact.
In 1998, Christel established Christel House International, a nonprofit organization with a revolutionary school model aimed at empowering children to escape poverty. By addressing not only academic needs but also the critical factors that influence a child’s overall well-being, Christel’s approach has transformed countless lives and communities worldwide.
Christel House International has grown to include schools in five countries: India, South Africa, Mexico, Jamaica, and the United States. Each school serves children from under-resourced communities, providing a comprehensive support model that includes quality education, nutritious meals, healthcare, and career guidance. This holistic approach addresses the physical, mental, and educational needs of each child, creating an environment where they can thrive and succeed.
Through Christel’s leadership, the organization developed a rigorous “holistic model. Students are educated not only in academics but are also given the tools and values necessary to contribute back to society, creating a ripple effect of positive change. Christel House schools have consistently shown high graduation rates and success stories, with many students going on to pursue higher education and meaningful careers.
Christel House International has made remarkable strides in transforming lives, providing quality education and holistic support to students across the globe. Currently, Christel House serves students in five countries through nine schools, focusing on breaking the cycle of poverty and building brighter futures. With a goal to expand even further, Christel House is aiming to establish five new schools within the next five years, amplifying its impact and reaching even more children in under-resourced communities. Through these new schools, Christel House is committed to creating sustainable opportunities and fostering self-sufficiency for future generations worldwide.
Christel’s dedication to underprivileged children transcended borders. As she expanded Christel House to new countries, she formed partnerships with local and global organizations that shared her commitment to social transformation. These partnerships not only provided additional resources but also strengthened the impact of Christel House on a global scale.
In 2020, Christel passed away, leaving behind a legacy that continues to impact thousands of children worldwide. Her life’s work remains a testament to the power of education and compassion in transforming lives. Today, her legacy endures through the dedicated teams running Christel House schools and through the students who continue to break free from the cycle of poverty.
Christel DeHaan’s journey from a German immigrant to a successful business leader and, ultimately, a global philanthropist is a powerful story of resilience, vision, and commitment. Her mission lives on in the lives of the children who graduate from Christel House schools and the communities uplifted by her work. Christel House International remains a beacon of hope, symbolizing how education can empower under-resourced communities and create sustainable change.
Christel’s life reminds us that with determination, empathy, and a vision for a better future, one person can make a profound difference in the world. Through Christel House, her legacy of giving, compassion, and transformation continues to inspire and uplift new generations.
Cheryl Wendling, Board Member Emeritus of Christel House International, has been a driving force since its founding in 1998, working closely with Christel DeHaan to bring her transformative vision to life.
A passionate advocate for education, Cheryl holds undergraduate and graduate degrees from Butler University and a graduate degree from Indiana University. Her enduring commitment to Christel House has played a vital role in advancing its mission to transform lives through education and break the cycle of poverty.
Cheryl Wendling
Board Member Emeritus of Christel House International
CHRISTEL HOUSE INTERNATIONAL ANNOUNCES THE RETIREMENT OF PRESIDENT AND CEO BART PETERSON AND APPOINTMENT OF SUCCESSOR DAVID HARRIS
CHRISTEL HOUSE EXPANDS GLOBALLY – SUCCESSFUL COLLEGE & CAREERS PROGRAM TO PARTNER SCHOOLS FOR FIRST TIME
CHRISTEL HOUSE DORS CREATES OPPORTUNITY WITH GLICK PHILANTHROPIES GRANT
CHRISTEL HOUSE INDIANAPOLIS PARTNERS WITH FAY BICCARD GLICK NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER FOR NEW ADULT HIGH SCHOOL CAMPUS
CHRISTEL HOUSE RECEIVES $500,000 GRANT FROM THE CHARLES AND LUCILLE KING FAMILY FOUNDATION
