A German-American entrepreneur whose journey from post-war Germany to global business leadership ultimately led her to dedicate her life to philanthropy and transforming the lives of children.
Christel DeHaan's remarkable journey began in post-war Germany, where her mother taught her resilience, hard work and compassion.
"Our mother instilled in me the philosophy of giving that has guided my actions throughout my life — to care, to share, to make a difference."
After graduating high school, Christel left for England to work as a nanny, then returned home to work as a secretary and translator at a nearby U.S. Army base, where she met her first husband, an Army medic from Indiana. In 1962, she moved with him to Indianapolis, where she started a typing and ironing business while raising her two children.
By the early 1970s, Christel was divorced and rebuilding, attending college while working as a secretary. It was during this chapter of reinvention that she met Jon DeHaan, the man who would become her second husband and her partner in what she would later call a chapter of "extraordinary achievement".
In 1973, Christel and Jon DeHaan began building something entirely new from the ground up. They launched Resort Condominiums International, or RCI, from their living room in Indianapolis. The idea was bold, the market was challenging, and the early years were difficult. But they kept showing up, travelling from city to city and country to country to build belief in their vision.
Christel's tenacity and vision helped turn a simple idea into a thriving business. RCI became a catalyst that helped make timesharing succeed as a product, while its partnership with the industry helped both RCI and the wider industry grow.
Think Global. Act Local.
Christel cultivated a company culture rooted in service, excellence, and deep respect for employees, affiliates, and members. Her approach to building relationships, solving problems, and creating opportunity would later shape the organisation she founded.
A NEW CHAPTER BEGINS
After Christel and Jon divorced in 1989, Christel became the sole owner of RCI. She continued to lead the company for nearly a decade.
"I sold RCI in 1996 and decided to devote my life to philanthropy."
She created the Christel DeHaan Family Foundation, supporting causes across the arts, education, and human services. But she was preparing for a new, mission-driven chapter—one that would change the lives of thousands of children around the world.
Christel had long recognized the need to help those who were less fortunate, particularly children living in poverty. A close friend, Gabriel Oropeza, introduced her to Mother Ines, a 70-year-old nun caring for children in Mexico City.
Christel admired her efforts but also recognized how much more was needed.
"What was missing? Rigorous education. Healthy nutrition. Quality medical care. A feeling of self-worth and opportunities throughout life."
"I knew then that I wanted to transform their lives."
In 1998, Christel House was born in the hills of Texcoco, Mexico, with a mission to break the cycle of poverty for children.
From the beginning, Christel identified four core values that she believed could help children lead lives that are honorable and productive and make a contribution to society.
Christel's vision went beyond academic performance. She created a holistic human development model designed to address the systemic causes of poverty.
The model brings together academic achievement and personal growth, character and leadership development, physical health and nutrition, and community outreach. Christel House also provides the healthcare and social support children need to learn, grow, and excel.
Building the knowledge and skills children need to succeed.
Providing access to healthcare that supports children's well-being.
Helping children grow and learn through healthy nutrition.
Developing the values and personal qualities needed to lead meaningful lives.
Equipping students to take responsibility for themselves and contribute to society.
Addressing the wider challenges that can stand between children and opportunity.
"We created a holistic human development model to combat the systemic causes of poverty. Add to this a tremendous amount of love and care for our children."
A PATH TO A BETTER LIFE - What began in Mexico became a model with a global reach. Christel House became more than a school. It became a path to a better life.
From its beginnings in Mexico, Christel House has expanded across five countries, with schools in India, Mexico, South Africa, Jamaica, and the United States. The vision continues to grow, with expansion to Nepal and Colombia.
Mexico City
Bangalore
Cape Town
Indiana, USA
India
Spanish Town
25,500+ students served since our founding in 1998
94% global on-time high school graduation rate
96% alumni in education, training, or employment
"No matter how we envision the future, there will most likely always be a need for Christel House. I want the organization to exist beyond 50 years."
Christel's vision continues through the students, teachers, staff, board members, and supporters carrying her mission forward around the world.
Her impact is not simply measured in buildings or numbers. It lives in the voices, dreams, and successes of her students.
"A heartfelt thank you to all of you who support Christel House. Thank you for caring, for sharing, and for making a difference."
Her vision continues because people choose to carry it forward. You can help shape what comes next.
