District 7070 Dominican Republic Service Project - We Need Your Help

The best and most beautiful things in this world cannot be seen or even heard but must be felt with the heart - Helen Keller. This statement reflects the goal and mission of the District 7070 International Project to the Dominican Republic (DR).

Team DR has returned from 5 weeks of sharing kindness to their fellow man. 16 individuals, Rotarian and non Rotarians were drawn to help continue the mission. Our volunteers not only had fun learning simple construction skills but also helped Team DR change lives…by giving the gifts of water through grey water retrieval systems and well discovery, light through installing solar lights, warmth through clothing, nourishment through food bags, education through the SewGirls Kits and most importantly the gift of friendship to the people we serve......

The International Project started in 1998 within the Whitby Sunrise Club. Its Leadership has changed and now expanded to clubs beyond Whitby Sunrise but its core mission remains - to help those who live in the bateys surrounding the town of Consuelo. Without citizen papers, our friends are economic slaves, their hope and future lies in working within the Sugarcane industry for a few pesos. Our 5 weeks provide a glimmer that the world hasn’t forgotten about them. Someone still cares.

In order to continue our work, Team DR needs help and support. We seek out donations of medical supplies, select clothing and monetary funds. Tax receipts can be issued for donations over $100. (The Rotary Club of Campbellford helps us with this matter). Donations can be made via e-transfer to treasurer@campbellfordrotary.ca using the password “kits.” Please include your name, mailing address, email address and phone number in the message field. A donation of $100 supports five kits, and a donation of $300 supports kits for a classroom of girls. )  We need interested individuals that are physically, financially and mentally able to join us for a week of fun - learning the culture, language and love as we help our friends. A selection interview for setting expectations and providing cultural, safety and goal expectations can set the stage for volunteers to join our 2027 team. You do not need to be a Rotarian to apply. Reach out to our Core Team for more information. We would be delighted to hear from you.

Volunteers are the core of our fun force. Individuals can help at home - supporting fundraising efforts, sewing events, and reaching out to the team to help with various housekeeping duties, grant proposal writing, and preparation of construction supplies. Work continues all year round for our 5 weeks of action.

If our Project peaks your interest - reach out to discuss. Our core Team DR- Jeff Thorsteinson 905-242-7150, Heather Kent 902-478-1884, and Janet Thorsteinson 905-439-5247 love to chat about our goals and love of the Dominican Republic. The magic and feelings of this project is an important legacy to us. There is much work to be done.