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Dominican Republic – April 2008 April 2008 - A group of ladies from SW Florida visited the Dominican Republic. Notes from Debbie Viox: A Lesson for the World We know this place as the Dominican Republic. Nestled between Cuba and South America, it has a special flavor all its own. With a variety of lifestyles in both the city and the countryside, their occupations extend from street vendors to merchants, to produce farmers. They are hard-working, family-oriented people who cope with a poor economy and lean earnings. These people though, given their circumstances are very rich in spirit. They have been labeled, 'the happiest people in the world.' A lesson we can all learn from them is how to maintain a good spirit while enduring hardship or crisis. My first impression of their culture in the early 90’s was a very positive one. I came away from there, knowing in my heart that these people were special. The Dominicans are a very proud people but full of hospitality even though their possessions may be few. They are quick to open their meager homes to you at any given moment and always with a big smile. They embrace you with loving hands as you enter their homes, schools or churches. A friend is truly a friend indeed. Just like “The good old days,” this country reminds me of the USA in the 60’s when people were real unspoiled and not “on line,” a time when people were there for each other. Where did we go wrong? I’ve wondered this as I watch them being hospitable to even stranger with juice can rollers in their hair. It takes me back in time to a simpler way of life, a time I truly miss. Their motto could be, “Don’t worry, be happy.” Myself, and a group of ladies visited the D.R. in 2006. Our objective was to see how we could help a school in Sabana Perdida, 40 minutes from Santo Domingo. It was reported that they had nothing to use for the students, no school supplies, etc. Their teaching methods were all verbal and the students were eager to learn. Many things have changed over the last three years as a result of our visits there. First of all, we joined the sponsorship program from Vision Trust International, the organization that had taken on this school as a project in that area of the Dominican Republic. We have sponsored around 50 children and supplied their school with updated equipment, school supplies and all sorts of teaching aids to encourage the faithful teachers there. One of their greatest needs however, is the food and nutrition program. Sometimes this is the only meal they receive daily, and it is very important to them. In 2007, a team of 13 delivered many of these items to the school. We also held a Vacation Bible School program, including craft items that the children thoroughly enjoyed. The people of Santo Domingo are very open to discussing their spiritual needs as well as the many physical ones that they have as a community. This makes it very easy to find solutions for and minister to all their many needs. On our most recent trip in April ’08, a team of four ladies tripled the program load. We visited 3 schools and a children’s home in the D.R. where we did children’s programs. Then we observed 2 new sites where projects will begin in the future. One of our programs was called, “Everybody’s Birthday Party,” at the Pemar Children’s Home, where approximately 85 children enjoyed birthday cake, games, a story, and nice clothing donated just for them. The gratitude and smiles were everywhere! These programs are very important because in the D.R., schooling is not required and the cycle of ignorance needs to be broken. In 2009 we are going back for more fun and blessings. If your heart has been touched by our experience and you would like to make a difference in the D.R., you may contact Vision Trust International and inquire about mission trips of all kinds including construction teams, dental or medical, child sponsorship, the greatly needed food program or simply a one-time monetary donation. I am truly convinced that if we all help just a little, we can make a big difference.
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