At Resort Trades, we had the pleasure of speaking with Juan Ignacio Rodriguez, managing director of RCI International, Travel + Leisure Co., about his personal connection to Christel House and the enduring legacy of its founder, Christel DeHaan.
A Legacy Rooted in Giving Back
RCI, founded by Christel DeHaan over 50 years ago, was built on innovation in the vacation ownership industry. Yet, it was DeHaan’s passion for giving back that became one of her most lasting contributions. After selling RCI, she established Christel House to provide education, healthcare, nutrition, and life skills to children living in poverty around the world.
“She had a saying that touched me deeply,” Rodriguez shared. “‘We need to provide poor kids with a seat at the table of life.’”
Today, Christel House operates nine schools across five countries, including Mexico, India, South Africa, Jamaica, and the United States. With more than 20,000 alumni, the mission of breaking the cycle of poverty through holistic education is now a living reality.
Growing the Impact
Rodriguez, who has served on the boards of Christel House Mexico and Christel House International, revealed ambitious expansion plans:
- A new school in Pune, India, with government support
- Expansion of the South Africa campus
- A second school in Mexico
- A new school in either Colombia or Peru
- Additional campuses under evaluation in Africa
“This represents tons of work in planning, development, and fundraising,” Rodriguez said, noting that transforming a child’s life through Christel House is a 20-year commitment—from elementary school to college and career.
An Innovative Model, Staying True to Its Roots
Before she passed in 2020, Christel DeHaan created the Endless Succession Fund for Christel House, ensuring that every dollar donated goes directly to the students. Administrative expenses are fully covered by the fund—for life.
Rodriguez emphasized the organization’s focus on innovation: “Education needs to evolve just like businesses do. We are continually updating the way we teach and manage the schools, including the integration of new technologies and life skills training.”
RCI and Travel + Leisure Co.: Carrying the Torch
Today, RCI remains deeply committed to Christel House’s mission. Now part of Travel + Leisure Co., the organization continues its strong focus on social responsibility, supporting education and youth initiatives. “Christel House is in RCI’s DNA,” Rodriguez affirmed. “We’ll continue to support it, not just because of our history, but because education transforms lives.”
An Innovative Model, Staying True to Its Roots
Rodriguez encouraged viewers and readers to get involved:
- Donations to support expansion and ongoing operations
- Guest speaking opportunities to inspire students
- Networking to open new doors for graduates
“There are many ways to help,” Rodriguez said. “The foundation of any good society is quality education. Together, we can make a difference.”
A Personal Reflection
In closing, Rodriguez shared a heartfelt sentiment: “I’ve seen lives transformed. Kids I met 20 years ago are now professionals, parents, and community leaders. There’s no greater reward than seeing them take their seat at the table of life.”
About Christel House International
Transforming Lives Through Holistic Education
Christel House International is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty for children around the world. Founded in 1998 by philanthropist and RCI co-founder Christel DeHaan, the organization delivers more than just academic instruction—it offers a holistic approach that supports students’ physical, emotional, and social well-being.
What Sets Christel House Apart:
Comprehensive Support: Students receive quality education, healthcare, nutrition, life skills training, and family support from elementary school through post-secondary education.
Global Reach: Christel House currently operates nine schools in five countries—including the U.S. (Indianapolis), Mexico, India, South Africa, and Jamaica—with plans to expand into countries such as Colombia, Peru, Kenya, and Bangladesh.
Endless Succession Foundation: All administrative costs are covered in perpetuity by the Christel DeHaan-established Endless Succession Foundation, so 100% of donor contributions go directly to programs and students.
- Over 20,000 alumni educated and empowered
- Long-term commitment: up to 18 years of continuous support per student
- Graduates who become professionals, leaders, and changemakers
How You Can Help:
- Donate: Support a child’s full educational journey.
- Volunteer: Share your expertise with students.
- Partner: Create opportunities for graduates.
Visit Christel House International to learn more or find ways you can support their life-changing mission.