The B.C.C. is honored to have the input from our many international supporters.
Please, feel free to leave your feedback on the form at the bottom of this page.
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| Brazil |
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| "As a carioca citizen [someone born in Rio de Janeiro] and also a lawyer I am proud of taking
part in this project. Rio de Janeiro is a marvelous city, its
population is known for having a unique way of living and being kind to
others. Unfortunately, these qualities are not being appreciated due to
too many social problems and too much violence. Many homeless kids are
growing up without developing the sense of humanity or hope. They have
been abandoned not only by their own families, but also by the
government, that does not provide them with any kind of support.
People, in general, believe that there is no way out of this situation.
Nevertheless, some people do believe this scenery can be changed. The
ones who have had the pleasure of meeting Hal Morris can easily see
his effort- as a human being and as a professional- to make things
change. By giving psychological assistance to these people he found a
way of contributing for them to have a better future and I strongly
encourage him to go on with this project."
Carlos Montechiari
Partner, Sereno & Montechiari Advogados Associados
Empresa do Grupo BSM
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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"I have had the privilege of getting to know Hal since our early days in graduate school in 2003. Since the time we met I have been struck by his ambition and passion to learn the skills necessary to help individuals and families in need. He has a diverse background in clinical work, possesses strong values for equality, social justice, ending poverty, and assisting those who have limited resources. Throughout his time in Brazil he has recognized some profound barriers that the children experience and he is taking action to do his part to help this area of the world. I whole heartedly support his efforts with the Brazilian Children's Charity as this organization specifically addresses two areas of need. First, it's primary focus to help these vulnerable kids by providing resources and necessary counseling to them and their families to avoid the long term effects associated with homelessness, violence, substance abuse, sexual abuse, and exploitation. In addition, the BCC provides unique training opportunities for future clinicians to be able to contribute at a grassroots level and learn the challenges and barriers that families from others countries and cultures experience."
Lynn Elwood
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Seattle, Washington
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| U.S.A. |
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| It was a pleasure seeing you [Hal Morris] a few weeks ago while you were in Seattle. I must say I am very impressed with the work you are doing in Brazil with your organization. I have been in this field of work for well over 33 years, but I have never heard of an organization quite like B.C.C. - an organization that assists with the mental health needs of children in Brazil.
In addition to being impressed, I am proud that you have asked us to be involved with your continued professional growth and your work. When you were here at our agency as an Intern, I was always appreciative of your hard work, commitment and desire to serve in communities of color. You were successful in building positive relationships with your clients, their families, the community resources, and your co-workers. You availed yourself of every learning opportunity here at the agency, at your university and in your work with clients.
I have no doubt that with your dedication, commitment and leadership, B.C.C. will be a successful organization, and do much to assist the children of Rio do Janeiro. You have my continued best wishes.
Yours truly,
Jeri White, LICSW, CMHS, EMMHS
Executive Director, South East Youth and Family Services
Seattle, Washington
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| "I first met Hal Morris when he was a graduate student at Antioch
University in Seattle. He took several courses in family therapy from me.
Not only was I impressed with his intelligence, wide-ranging intellectual interests, multicultural experiences, and willingness to think and act outside the box, I was also struck by his compassion for those less fortunate than himself. At his core, Hal is a caring man and I appreciate what he and the B.C.C. intend to do for the children of Brazil.
After he graduated, Hal and I met on various occasions outside of the
scholastic environment. Our conversations included history,
psychology, and his dream of forming the B.C.C. In 2006, Hal and I
visited Venezuela. There, I was witness to his ability
to understand and culturally communicate with the locals. I was impressed
at the ease with which he immersed himself into the local culture,
attributable, perhaps, to his multicultural upbringing. Our travel
itinerary was quite complex. As a result, I also caught a glimmer of
Hal's potential for entrepreneurship and effective administration. I have
no doubt that the B.C.C. will thrive under his clinical guidance and his
administrative leadership, and hence, will provide effective support for
the mental health challenges of the underprivileged children of Rio de
Janeiro."
Bill Forisha, Ph.D. LP (MN), LMFT (WA)
Professor Emeritus, Antioch University
Clinical Member and Approved Supervisor, AAMFT
Chair, Doctoral Program in Marriage and Family Therapy
Argosy University: Twin Cities, Minnesota
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| "I have known Hal (Arval Morris) for over twenty years. I met him in my Intensive German course here at the University of Washington in the summer of 1988, which he took while he was still in high school. The energy and dedication it takes for a youngster to contemplate participating in such a program is a trait that still marks Hal's dynamism. Later as a student at this institution Hal took a course from me on the history of the German language and served twice as an assistant in my Advanced Conversational German course.
Hal has always demonstrated an interest in foreign peoples and cultures. This interest no doubt underlies the empathy and concern he has demonstrated later in his adult life for the downtrodden and marginalized — and especially his concern for children of the Third World.
I am very proud of Hal, and I would like to believe that by serving as his instructor I may have played some small part in leading him to the admirable position he has carved out for himself today."
Charles M. Barrack
Professor of Germanic Linguistics
Department of Germanics
University of Washington
Seattle, WA 98195-3530
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| Germany |
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| "I
first visited Brazil in January, 2000 and immediately fell in love with
the
country and the people. Brazil has beautiful landscapes, ocean, lakes,
forests, wildlife and waterfalls making it one of the most stunning
countries in the world. The people have a way of doing things that is
very different from mine, but with a refreshing "No Stress"
attitude. I returned to Brazil many times (at least 10) and even lived
in Brazil for about two years. As my understanding for Brazilian
culture and language increased, I began to understand the dark
underbelly
of Brazil. The poverty is sad, there is a lot of drug use and street crime is
not
uncommon. But what other possibility exists for the less fortunate?
I first met Hal Morris in 2001 in Venezuela, South America.
Immediately,
I was amazed at Hal's worldly experience and by his ability to put
himself into a
situation and immediately adapt. Furthermore, it is rare to meet an
American with such a command of the German language and understanding
of German culture. I
accompanied Hal on his first trip to Brazil in 2003 and we often lived
together during many of my trips to Rio de Janeiro. Since his
first visit, Hal fell in love with Brazil, it's people and the
Brazilian way of
life. I have watched this love grow into a great understanding for
Brazilian culture, their way of life and a command of the Portuguese
language.
I have seen first hand what Hal Morris does with the Brazilian
Children's
Charity. He gives the troubled and poor youth of Rio a chance at a new
life. A life where they have more understanding and hopefully don't
return to the streets or a life of crime. The B.C.C. is just
the sort of organization that can make a change in Rio de Janeiro and
the rest
of Brazil. I am glad that someone is finally addressing these
problems - pretending they don't exist doesn't make them go away."
Rainer Nuss
Financial Planner and Investment Consultant
Hamburg, Germany
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| Lived in Brazil |
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| Brazil |
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| "Hello, my name is Jhosef Alves and I am 22 years old. I was born and raised in Vitoria, the capital of the state, Espirito Santo, Brazil. In January, 2007, I moved to the city of Rio de Janeiro looking for more opportunities. I had no work and had not yet finished my high school degree. I had no prospect for anything, just a dream: I wanted to succeed!
I lived in an area called Amorim which is in the neighborhood of Bonsucesso, Rio de Janeiro. I was surrounded by some of the most dangerous favelas [slums] of Rio. I was present to several shootings between the police and drug dealers. I saw and heard bullets fly over my head during the wars between the drug traffickers and their wars with the police. Six months later, I met Hal. He showed me the importance of studying and to follow my dreams. I got a job as a bicycle [food delivery] boy and re-entered school at night. Now, I am working at one of the largest companies in Brazil and have finished my high school degree (07/2008.) Finally, I can pursue my dream of being an architect!
Hal supported me in all my moments, helped me to have power of will of seeking a job, showed me the value of studying, and the values of people. I know that the Brazilian Children's Charity will help many people like it has helped me. Not only here in Rio de Janeiro, but in all of Brazil. Now, I know Vitoria, Espirito Santo and Rio are very different. Here, in Rio, when I go to work, I see children lying in the streets, cold and hungry. The easiest solution for these children is drugs or a life of crime. The B.C.C. exists so that these children will have a better future: a life with work, school and possibilities. This organization is not only for Rio, but is a better life for everyone in Brazil."
Jhosef Alves
Sales, Di Santini and Future Architect
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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| New Zealand |
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| "I
first met Hal in 2003 when I was his scuba instructor for the Rescue
Diver Course. Throughout the course I was impressed by his ability to
respond in critical incident situations. He has great insight and
understanding of the psychology of stress and I quickly realized that
he has the skills, education and experience to help those in need, no
matter the crisis. As a Registered General and Psychiatric Nurse, I
have a strong interest in mental health and am thankful that Hal has
made that the focus of BCC. So often these needs are not addressed and
the cycle of drugs, disease and prostitution continues.
Having
traveled and worked throughout the world, I was pleased to learn that
Hal also shares this love of meeting new cultures. He has a great
passion for Brazil and I admire him for his ability to fit easily into
new environments. I know his wonderful sense of humor will endear him
to many and he will be a great mentor for students working for the
charity."
Tania Boyd
Registered General Nurse & Registered Psychiatric Nurse
PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer
Seattle, Washington
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“I have been visiting Brazil for around 8 years and own three properties in Rio de Janeiro. I am very honored to have met Hal three years ago in Brazil. Hal and I have had many conversations on the poverty conditions in Brazil and U.S. I know how much he loves Brazil and wants to change things. He is devoted to this organization, it’s goals and the children that he helps.
Having experienced poverty first hand growing up on Chicago’s South Side it has helped me to understand some of the levels of poverty in Brazil. There are many similarities between Rio and where I was raised. I see kids doing and selling drugs, begging for money and even robbing people. These kids don’t want this life, but it is their lives. If they had a chance, then maybe things would be different. The B.C.C. will provide the needed resources and direction these children need and want. Brazil needs more organizations like the B.C.C.”
Marcus Mack
President and CEO
Macksemi Conductor Inc.
Fremont, California, U.S.A.
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| Lives in Brazil |
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| Germany |
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| "I have known Hal for more than 25 years. I'm not an expert in psychological science but I would recommend Hal to anybody who is ready to open up. Hal is a human being you can trust and he leads by example, speaking and acting in a sincere and honest way. No wonder, that after a long and windy road he found his vocation in Brasil with the establishment of the BCCharity. I can only say that I admire him in many ways, be it his unconventional way of thinking or his direct speech, his heartwarming humour or his readiness to act. I have great respect for his passionate involvement in his work. During the latest occasion when we met (in Freiburg, Germany, March, 2009,) I could see, hear and feel his firm belief in social-psychological work - he is a true believer! My conclusion: Hal Morris is going in the right direction with the BCCharity. He has my full support and I'm sure the BCCharity will help many children in Brasil find their way into a happy life."
Axel Hofe
Graphic Designer and President, Axel Hofe Design
Freiburg, Germany
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| "I have lived in Brazil
and traveled enough to see what an important role this country and its
people will assume in our global future, not only with regard to
economic, artistic, or environmental fronts, where they currently play
a leadership role, but in forming the very fabric of the new younger
society that is quickly networking together. It is in this context that
Hal Morris is once again leading by example, by starting the Brazilian
Children's Charity.
I
have known Hal Morris for over 20 years and he has always been a mentor
to me and to those around him. Today, his work with the Brazilian
Children's Charity continues the demonstration of his commitment, to
invest deeply in the people around him.
Often
aid organizations focus on hard goods, such as supplying food,
medicine, and material items, while they leave out the mental health
needs that are just too messy and not easily shown on television. One
of the things that separates Hal's organization is that he and his team
focus on such mental health needs. They defy the tendencies of typical
organizations, by digging into the untidiness and complication of
children's mental health needs. It is Hal's understanding of the
complexities of culture, as well as his appreciation for psychological
nuances, that allows him to create the infrastructure to train
Brazilian practitioners, offering a system made up of locals instead of
a practice of expatriates.
Rarely
does one have the chance to see an organization carry forward with such
heart and passion that it can endure long enough to set up a system of
change, impacting the lives of so many people. This organization has
that promise."
Benjamin Venema
President, Olinda Financial LLC
Tucson, Arizona USA
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| Germany |
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| "Hal Morris is a good friend of mine. We have known each other ever since we attended the fourth grade together in Merzhausen, Germany. Often he would return to visit and when I was 16 I visited him in the U.S.A. Over the years, we continued to stay in contact with each choosing his path in life. Today, I am a filmmaker and develop stories by observing humans through their emotions and their lives in general. When I heard of Hal's project BCCharity I was very proud! I completely support his project, as he is a man who fights for humanity and wants everyone to have a good life.
As a filmmaker I also try to show my perspective on human nature. Through my medium, I try to change the world a little bit. Even if it as small as a drop of water in the ocean, it is a sign and the beginning towards a better future. The BCCharity will be the small drop of water in the ocean of Brazil! The courage and ambition Hal shows with this project is to be respected and is very worthwhile. I wish the BCCharity will be successful and change the hopeless situation of as many children as possible."
Christian Fischer
President, Christian Fischer Film
Munchen, Germany
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| "I had the pleasure of meeting Hal Morris over 10 years ago when we
were both traveling and living in Central America. A certain kind of
bond forms between people that are living in another culture so
different than their own and he and I became instant lifelong friends.
Since that time, I have seen Hal take this passion for travel and
interest in the world and grown and matured it into his organization,
the Brazilian Children's Charity.
Last year I spent some time in Brazil with Hal learning about the
BCC. I witnessed first hand the horrible future facing so many
children in the slums of Rio - the unavoidable addiction to drugs, the
risk of prostitution, and imminent poverty. With little help from the
government, other agencies, and with parents who aren't equipped to
face these challenges, the BCC was formed out of Hal's desire to put
his education and knowledge to use to truly help make a difference in
the lives of the youth.
The BCC is a phenomenal organization because it addresses the need to
correct behavior and give skills to these kids. Having worked in the
non-profit sector myself it's not uncommon to see organization form
without really getting to the core issues. In this case, the BCC
recognizes the need to give these kids skills by rehabilitating and
teaching. This core value coupled with Hal's love for his work and his
unending energy to help will be tremendous impacts in the lives of
these children. I commend Hal and the BCC for providing hope and a
future for the children of Rio and Brazil."
Kristina Markula
Production Manager, McCann Worldground
San Francisco, California
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| Australia |
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| "I met Hal in Central America on one of my many travel adventures
in 2002. We have stayed in touch ever since, especially as we
both share the desire to learn about the cultures and lives of others
in all parts of the world with compassion.
Hal is acting on his compassion to really make a difference for
those in need. Hal is always thinking to make our place a better world.
I find Hal to be very passionate about helping others regardless of
gender, age, culture, etc.
I visited Hal in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 2007. Having stayed in his
home, Hal clearly feels very much at home, knowing the language, always
communicating, and setting up work.
Hal is genuinely an amazing, generous, kind-hearted person never
hesitating to help one out,and doing it exceptionally well! Hal
exhibits the epitome of humanitarian needs and advocacy of others in
less than fortunate situations. I fully support BCCharity and know that
Hal will give it 200%!"
Veronica Link
Associate Nurse Unit Manager
Radiology, Royal Melbourne Hospital
Melbourne, Australia
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| Canada |
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| "I have known Hal for a number of years, since moving to Rio de Janeiro from Canada. I feel privileged to call him my friend. I also consider Hal to be my biggest mentor on life in Rio. I have learned much from him about the complexities of life and the reality of Rio.
His love for the city, for the people, for his work, for life, shines
through the moment you meet him. He is focused and energetic.
Hal's
passion for the Brazilian Children's Charity is overwhelming, just as
the work that needs to be done is overwhelming. I have traveled the
world extensively for many years before settling in Rio, I have seen
much, and I know that the work he is doing is desperately needed, I see
proof of that every day here in the streets. From my experience I think
that the work Hal is doing here is efficient and effective. I give him
my wholehearted support."
Sean Gilmore, B.A. Commerce
Financial Consultant
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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| "I’ve known Hal for almost ten years now, and I’ve always been impressed by his energy and the boldness of his imagination. Brazil is a country that I love, a country with tremendous promise and deep problems. It offers one of the world’s great cultures, but at the same time a large part of its population barely endures, amid extreme violence and hopelessness.
Organizations like Hal’s are deeply needed. There are several things I like about what Hal is doing. He is focused on the root of the problem and at the same time the place of greatest possible change: the vast number of at-risk children living in urban slums. He’s using Brasilieros to work with Brasilieros, not with a notion of providing temporary aid, but with a goal of helping to heal the structural weaknesses and support the healing of at-risk families.
I heartily support what Hal is doing."
Jay French, MA
Psychotherapist in Private Practice
Seattle, WA
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| Germany |
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| "I
have known Hal Morris since 2003 when we became friends in Rio de
Janeiro. We both had the same idea to live in this wonderful city.
Hal soon realized that Rio has two faces and that there is a lot of
work to do especially with the children who have no chance at a better
life without somebody's help. I think he is the right person to run
this charitable organization as he is in love with Brasil and has a big passion for the Brasilian
people. He communicates easily with all ages of people and really
likes children. His psychological skills will help many kids to
believe in a better future and stay away from the dark side of Rio. I
am very happy about the realization of this fantastic project and wish
Hal and all participating people the best luck."
Lars Andersen
Consultant, Homes in Rio
Rio de Janeiro, Brasil
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| "I
have had the pleasure of calling Hal Morris a friend for over 15 years,
first meeting in Seattle and remaining in contact as I lived and
traveled the world for my profession. During our
friendship I have always admired Hal for the career path that he has
chosen. I always assumed that he would set up shop in the Seattle area
but, after I visited Rio in the early 90's, I can understand and
respect his choice to relocate. My brief visit to Brazil
opened my eyes in several ways. I came away with a new attitude, I no
longer considered material trappings important and learned to live life
to the fullest as the Brazilians do on a daily basis. Unfortunately,
my eyes were also opened to the daily hardships that most citizens of
Rio endure and I was especially touched by the youth that are forced to
grow up and survive well before their years allow. The
B.C.C. will provide the much needed support and foundation for the
youth to change their circumstances and hopefully this will enable them
to pass on the helping spirit to future generations."
Ronnie E. Jones
Fashion Photographer
Zürich, Switzerland
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| "I have known Hal for over 15 years. Time and time again he has proven that when he sets his mind to get something done, it gets done, no matter how difficult it may seem. Hal has the energy, the passion, and the intellectual resources to lead the BCC in becoming an effective and worthwhile organization in the Brazilian communities. I have no doubt that the BCC will make a difference in many people's lives and I am proud to support this great ambition."
Troy T. Brown
President, TTB Consulting LLC
Seattle, WA USA
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| Switzerland |
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| "Being a Swiss native and never having the pleasure of visiting Brazil myself I can say with great pride that I have many Brazilians as friends here in Switzerland. In my home town of Basel and Zürich where I now reside, both have a very large population from Brazil, some are first generation and others have called Switzerland home for decades. I'm always curious why people choose to leave their home land so I have asked the question often, the reply from most of my Brazilian friends was their need to escape the economic and social hardships. Many have prospered here in Europe and eventually returned home, others fall in love and decide to stay permanently, what is obvious is their deep love for their Brazil. I think that Hal and the BCC can do wonders by counseling the kids and helping them change the cycle that has so many convinced that they have to escape to succeed. I can't wait to visit this beautiful country myself and see firsthand what Hal and the BCC are accomplishing."
Markus Uebelhar
Branch Office Manager, Hotelplan
Zürich, Switzerland
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| U.S.A. |
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| "Hal Morris and I met 14 years ago while
working together in Seattle.
I was always impressed by his hard work ethic and unwavering moral code. I recall
Hal often talking about his desire to work outside of the U.S. and his
love of psychology. I know of the poverty in Brazil and the B.C.C. is an
organization that will address this problem at the heart of the cause. The
world needs more organizations like the B.C.C.! It is an honor to call Hal a
friend and I believe, through his leadership, that this organization will
achieve it's goal of assisting the poor children of Rio de Janeiro."
Craig Jenkins
Branch Manager, HCI Mortgage
Annapolis, Maryland
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