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Fundacion Mahatma Gandhi
Las Terrenas, Domincan Republic
March 3rd-10th, 2012
"As someone who has participated in other ABE trips, I felt that this trip most directly incorporated the five pillars of ABE and the themes of Catholic Social Teaching. Our hosts, Jose and Annette, were very intentional in educating us about the challenges faced by their community (poverty, illiteracy, drugs, prostitution, government corruption, and economic inequality) while also sharing what they- and others- are doing to make a difference. They were very flexible in the service component of the trip by allowing each of us to choose from many tasks at the library- painting, planting a garden, building a fence, creating a compost area, cleaning, shelving books, organizing donations, processing and recording books, and spending time with the kids. They also took great care to show us the beauty in their community and encouraged us to have fun by making time for us to enjoy the beach, a waterfall excursion, dinner in a neighboring town, and a final night of dining and dancing at a local restaurant. It was a wonderful week that passed much too quickly. Although we wished we could stay, I believe we all left feeling inspired, grateful, and connected."
-2010 Participant
Fundacion Mahatma Gandhi:
Fundacion Mahatma Gandhi works to better the quality of life of the people with whom they work, using suitable resources, in an authentic environment of continuous learning.
They focus on the following areas:
- Quality of life
Indicators for "quality of life" are: education, housing, health, family life, gainful employment, human rights, security, recreation, the environment, civic and political involvement and spirituality.
- Of the people with whom we work
They won't be able to have an impact on everyone, nor attract or benefit each person in the community. However, each person that comes to know about them and who participates in their activities becomes an integral part of their mission.
- Using suitable resources
There's neither a magic formula that can be employed in every situation, nor a recipe that fits against all evils. For that reason they will look for the best available resources that fit specific needs, to the best of ability and within the range of our possibilities.
- In an authentic environment
We carry out our mission without false pretenses or empty promises, trusting the good faith, honesty and integrity of our board members, partners, sponsors, participants and beneficiaries.
- Of continuous learning
We seek to regenerate ourselves continuously, seeking out the best methods, processes and alternatives, adapting our functions to changing conditions and contexts.
What to Expect:
- Travel:
The group will be flying to the Dominican Republic. In the past flights have cost $752 (2008), $682 (2009), $762 (2010), $735 (2011). Once there, transportation costs are covered from ABE trip fees (rides from airport to site, etc). - Lodging:
The group will either stay at Casa Paz, the volunteer house, or an alternate guest house. - Food:
The basic food of the area is rice, beans, salad, and some sort of meat such as chicken, beef, or pork. You can bring dry food, peanut butter, and other items to supplement. There is a lot of tropical fruit such as pineapple, bananas, oranges, and passion fruit. - Work:
Groups will have the opportunity to be involved in various programs. They can: work with children between 6-15 years, do small building projects, hold soccer or sports camps, do environmental education in the community, visit the elderly, learn more about issues in the community, assist with teaching girls about sports, English tutoring, work in classrooms, do theatre projects, or create your own projects. - Dress:
It is best to wear light cotton clothes. Women should dress so as to not attract too much attention, especially while working with kids or visiting homes and neighborhoods. Typicaly attire is gym shorts (appropriate length), t-shirts, and tennis shoes. - Extra Fun:
There are beaches within walking distance and the water is always good for swimming. They have some of the best beaches in the Caribbean. Make sure to bring a lot of sunscreen and to drink a lot of bottled water. There is also an opportunity for an excursion into the mountains of the Dominican Republic for a hike including spectacular views and waterfalls. - Focus:
Social Justice, intentional living, children, poverty
Interested in applying to co-lead or be a participant on the Dominican Republic Trip? Apply here to co-lead or here to participate!
Any questions about this trip can be directed to Alternative Break Experiences at abe@csbsju.edu
Special Points of Interest:
- Spanish immersion
- Cultural diversity
- Social justice
- Children
- Hands-on
- Sports
- Environmental Issues and Education
- Elderly care
- English Tutoring
From Past Participants:
"This trip was beyond incredible! We were able to learn so much about the Dominican Republic, its people, and ourselves. It was so much more than a service trip."
-2010 Participant
"I personally had such a life-changing experience in the DR. I learned so much and broadened my cultural perspective. I really grew as a Bennie."
-2010 Participant