The Dominican Republic has had a huge impact on me. I
enjoyed learning so much about the Dominican culture in just a week. It was
intriguing getting to know the Dominican children and forming close bonds with
them during the camp.
I loved being able to help the community and local
schools. It was shocking when we went to Domingo Maiz and saw the poor living
conditions the Dominicans lived in. I vividly remember the small shacks they
lived in, a toddler being bathed in a bucket, and dogs barking on a roof. After
we left the village, I could not stop thinking about what I had just witnessed.
It was hard to grasp the thought of living in such unsanitary conditions where
the Dominican were only given gallons of clean water once a week. It also
saddened me to see the lack of education the children received. I realized how
truly blessed I am really and wished I had been even more grateful at home.
What shocked me the most was that even though the Dominicans did not have much,
they always had a smile on their face. Their lives were simple, and they were
making the best out of their situation; it was truly gratifying to see.
This
trip allowed me to clearly see how fortunate the American citizens are. In the
United States many citizens take for granted the quality of education,
government programs, and overall safety they receive. This trip to the
Dominican Republic was one of the best weeks of my life. Not only did I learn
about the Dominican culture, but I also learned a lot about myself and my
passion to serve others.
Jenna Kibler, Shenandoah Co.
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