Perla's Experience

My Mission Story

cwallace@dominicandevelopmentgroup.org (Christy Wallace) — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 15:13:38 GMT

The Hope of Your Calling

Dear friends in Christ,

God instilled a heart for missions at a very young age. When I was in third grade, I began walking myself to a neighborhood church every Wednesday and Sunday. It was then I truly understood that God loved me and that he loved all of his children and that he had a plan for each of us.

On Wednesdays, all of the elementary kids learned about missions. We learned about missionaries all over the world sharing Christ’s love and bringing hope to the hopeless. I didn’t know it then, but a seed had been planted in my heart.

Flash forward to 1999, I was a senior in high school, and I had just been confirmed in the Episcopal Church. My mind was filled with getting ready for college, graduating, and being a teenager. Missions were the last thing on my mind.

I was approached by my Sunday School Teacher, the curate of our church, about an upcoming exploratory mission trip to the Dominican Republic. Our church had never in its history been involved in global missions. A team was being formed that was composed of various people from our church. My Sunday School Teacher asked if I would be interested in going. My emphatic answer was YES!

My heart was forever changed by that first exploratory trip. I would go on to help lead our youth the very next year to the camp in Jarabacoa, Dominican Republic. Since then, I have served on mission teams to Galveston, TX, Nashville, TN, Las Vegas, NV, Panama, Moldova, and of course to the Dominican Republic.

My family and I moved to Tampa, FL for my husband’s neurooncology fellowship in June of 2021. My aunt reached out to me to see if I could “help” in the DDG office that was located in Tampa. At the time I was working remotely consulting with various nonprofits and since I had a flexible schedule, I said yes. Over the next few months, my heart began to hear the call to serve God fully through the ministry of the Dominican Episcopal Church and I said yes to becoming the executive director of the DDG.

Over the past few years, I have learned so much about missions from the DDG board, mission teams, our Dominican brothers and sisters, and especially Bishop Moises Quezada. My biggest lesson I’ve learned so far is that as God’s children, we are all a part of his very big kingdom and it’s our job to share our gifts that we have been so graciously given. Mission work is a continuum. We are all serving each other as we are called to do.

My prayer for every Christian is that they would know that there is a place and a purpose for them in mission- and that we are all called to pray, learn, give, and go.

If you’re thinking about going on a mission trip, feel free to contact me today! Whether you’d like to come a long on an exploratory pilgrimage, work on a weeklong project, or put together a team yourself, our team can help you every step of the way!

Blessings upon blessings,

Christy Wallace

Executive Director

“I pray that, with the eyes of your heart enlightened, you may perceive what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance among the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power for us who believe, according to the working of his great power.” Ephesians 1:18-19

Change your life and the world will thank you.

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 21:02:57 GMT

Written by Perla, University of South Florida student

The Dominican Republic is a beautiful country that saw me grow up, and I am proud to call it my homeland. My experience with DDG was unforgettable, it was truly an enriching experience to be able to give my time, love, and abilities to serve a needed community in my beloved country. On our mission trip, we worked with two vulnerable sectors of society, first we spent our time with children at a school and then with a nursing home. I personally saw my grandparents reflected in the elderly of the home, which contributed to the fact that in my service I poured my soul and heart to connect with them. I was able to learn parts of their lives and how to pay attention, listening to them, letting them know that they are important, loved and cared for, can make a difference in the individual difficulties that each presented.

On the other hand, by being in contact with children I was able to awaken my inner child and enjoy their creativity and inexhaustible energy. In a general sense, my experience with DDG on this mission trip will be an experience that will remain in my memory with great joy, because the entire team that made this experience possible made us feel at home and safe at all times.

Medical Missions

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 17:49:29 GMT

Interested in participating in Medical Missions?

In a world where healthcare disparities persist, medical missions stand as beacons of hope, bridging the gap between medical care and underserved communities. These missions take you on a journey through the eyes of dedicated healthcare professionals and volunteers who embark on a life-changing mission of healing and compassion. From remote villages to disaster-stricken regions, medical missions bring essential healthcare services and a glimmer of hope to those in need. They represent a vital aspect of global health initiatives, providing essential healthcare services to communities around the world. In this blog, we'll delve into the significance of medical missions, the challenges they face, heartwarming stories of impact, and the transformative power of compassion.

Medical missions play a crucial role in addressing healthcare disparities and providing vital services to underserved communities worldwide. By bridging the gap between medical resources and vulnerable populations, these missions ensure that even the most marginalized individuals receive the care they urgently need. They work towards reducing healthcare disparities by targeting regions with limited access to medical services, offering free or low-cost care to level the healthcare playing field. Moreover, medical missions are at the forefront of disaster response efforts, providing aid and relief services during emergencies.

Beyond treatment, medical missions focus on preventive care and health education, raising awareness about disease prevention, hygiene, and nutrition to empower communities to lead healthier lives. Collaborating with local healthcare providers, medical missions engage in capacity-building efforts, providing training and resources to empower professionals to continue providing care after the mission. They also offer surgical interventions to those without access to life-changing procedures, significantly improving the quality of life for patients.

Beyond the medical impact, these missions restore dignity to underserved communities, allowing individuals to participate more fully in society and economic activities. Through building global partnerships, medical missions facilitate knowledge exchange and a comprehensive approach to global health challenges. Additionally, they inspire future healthcare professionals to pursue careers in humanitarian work through experiential learning and cultural immersion opportunities.

With a focus on creating lasting impact, medical missions initiate sustainable projects and educational programs that improve healthcare outcomes long after the mission's conclusion. Despite the challenges they face, the dedication and perseverance of medical mission teams continue to make a significant difference in the lives of those they serve.

Please contact Christy Wallace for more information on medical missio ns: cwallace@dominicandevelopmentgroup.org

Building Ministries

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 17:49:28 GMT

Want to contribute in building and expanding churches in the Dominican Republic?

The construction and expansion of churches holds immense significance for the Episcopal Church in the Dominican Republic, particularly under the guidance of Bishop Moises Quezada, who prioritizes community outreach and fostering strong church relationships. These efforts are facilitated by the DDG which aims to reach a broader demographic and provide vital support to those in need. Nonprofit churches in the region offer a range of essential social services, including food assistance, shelter, counseling, healthcare support, and educational programs.

Additionally, they provide spiritual guidance to individuals facing personal challenges, contributing to the growth of a connected and resilient congregation. Moreover, these churches act as community hubs, promoting a sense of belonging and social cohesion, while also engaging in disaster relief and crisis response efforts in strategic locations. Through their educational and cultural enrichment programs, churches positively impact individual development and community well-being. They are also actively involved in advocacy and social justice initiatives, addressing issues such as poverty, inequality, and human rights.

Furthermore, the expansion of churches facilitates fundraising events and volunteer engagement, ensuring the sustainability and growth of nonprofit organizations as they continue to serve the community effectively. In conclusion, the expansion and building of new churches play a crucial role in enhancing the impact of nonprofit organizations, addressing diverse social, emotional, and spiritual needs, and fostering positive change and social well-being within the Dominican Republic.

Please contact Mike Abraham for more information on building ministries: abrnet@yahoo.com

Mission Trips

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 17:49:27 GMT

Interested in going on a mission trip?

Mission trips are amazing opportunities for individuals to give back to countries in need.

Approximately 50 mission teams from the United States come to work in the Diocese of the Dominican Republic each year. The Diocese has an office dedicated to the planning and support of the work of mission teams, and the Dominican Development Group (DDG) works in close cooperation with this office to facilitate the transfer of funds needed to pay for in-country meals and lodging, transportation, and program supplies such as construction materials.

The DDG has developed secure and reliable methods to transfer funds internationally to the Diocese of the Dominican Republic that satisfy all U.S. Homeland Security banking regulations for such transfers. As a 501(c)(3) organization, the DDG can accept funds as charitable contributions under Internal Revenue Service regulations. Funds sent by individuals directly to the Diocese of the Dominican Republic are not considered charitable contributions under U.S. tax law.

In addition to helping coordinate trips by mission teams to the Dominican Republic, the Dominican Development Group also sponsors pilgrimage trips twice each year. These pilgrimage trips (formerly called exploration trips) are designed to familiarize mission team leaders and others interested in the ministries and facilities of the Diocese of the Dominican Republic with many of those locations in a fast-paced, week-long trip that begins and ends at the Las American International Airport east of Santo Domingo. In even years, the general path of these trips follows a south-to-north direction, including several Episcopal facilities on the north-central coast of the Dominican Republic. In odd years, the path is generally west to east, including the Episcopal church, school, and medical clinic located in the city of Jimaní on the border with Haiti.

The Dominican mission team support office is currently led by Ned Paulino, a bilingual Dominican who has several years of experience working with mission teams At this time, this mission team support office is in a restructuring process, so additional support for the mission team office and its programs is being provided through the Diocesan Bishop’s office.

Please contact Christy Wallace for more information on mission trips: cwallace@dominicandevelopmentgroup.org or 813-400-2722

Education Ministries

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 04:04:32 GMT

The importance of education ministries and it's growth in the Dominican Republic

Society's foundation lies in education - cultivating well-informed, ethical citizens is crucial to enhance individual and family life. While basic literacy levels in the Dominican Republic are high, there is a need to move beyond basic skills for economic growth and improved standards of living. The DDG was established to support the self-sustainability of the Dominican Episcopal Diocese and its ministries, exemplified by the scholarship program. Though school attendance is mandatory until the 8th grade, economic hardships hinder some families from enrolling their children due to enrollment fees, uniforms, and books. The Dominican Episcopal Church has long prioritized education and health ministries, operating 26 schools serving around 6,400 students. Recent initiatives have improved facilities, programs, and teacher development.

Episcopal schools are renowned for catering to the most vulnerable segments of the population, transforming lives. However, as the Diocese lacks a sufficient general revenue fund, schools depend on student tuition. Nonetheless, the Diocese is dedicated to providing education to all, irrespective of their ability to pay or religious affiliation.

The DDG Scholarship Program, backed by individuals, organizations, and churches in the USA, offers opportunities for students to attend Episcopal schools. Your support helps improve the quality of educational programs these scholarship students receive. Each year, around 700 students have received financial assistance from US sponsors. The scholarship costs US$350 per year, encouraging parental involvement by having parents contribute to tuition or volunteer in the school. A Diocesan committee decides the number of scholarships per school, and deserving students are selected based on their family's ability to pay, attendance records, and academic achievements.

Join us in fostering a brighter future for the Dominican Republic by supporting this vital scholarship program.

If you have questions about the DDG’s scholarship program or the Dominican Episcopal schools, please contact Dr. Thomas McGowan at tmcgowan1948@gmail.com . Dr. McGowan is an emeritus Professor of Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln, and is also an accredited missionary of The Episcopal Church and a member of the DDG’s Board of Directors. He serves as a volunteer consultant to the leadership of the Dominican Episcopal schools and conducts frequent workshops for their administrators and teachers. To check out his lively blog about his educational consultant work in the Dominican Republic, click here !

Faith is in every matter of life. The big events, and the small ones.

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 17:03:00 GMT

Written by Kiara, University of South Florida student

The mission trip with DDG and DASA was truly one of the best experiences and accomplishments yet. I got to expand my abilities by partaking in activities that I never imagined before. For example, being of such service to the elderly and engaging in great activities was such a highlight of my days there. Their anticipation to continue having us there was truly so heartwarming and filled me with joy, definitely making me want to continue doing such work. As well as seeing how excited the kids at the school were to see us every morning.

The bond I grew with the people there, the staff, the kids, the elderly, as well as my colleagues is something I will never forget or take for granted. It taught me how even the smallest help could mean the world to others, and I learned so much about myself and became passionate to be of help to others.

Learn to see differences and embrace them.

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 17:01:27 GMT

Written by Emily, DDG Administrative Assistant

The mission trip I took in May with Dominican American Student Association members from the University of South Florida was a heartwarming experience. I grew up in a Hispanic household where my Dominican mother would always speak of her country- the beauty it offered, the vegetation, the people and the undeniable poverty. I've been to Dominican Republic quite a few times, but this May was my first time participating in a mission trip. Our team spent our days in the capital of Santo Domingo, Boca Chica, Los Minas, and La Romana. I arrived in the Dominican Republic with no expectations other than to bring smiles to individual's faces. I left the country with countless memories of the faces of children and elderly who were noticeably thrilled at our presence.

During my time in the Dominican Republic, our team split our days between going to an Episcopal School and the nursing home Our mornings were spent with children from pre-k to 1st grade at the San Jose School located in Boca Chica. Our tasks ranged from drawing with the kids, teaching different vowels, reading to the class, and many arts and crafts to ensure visual learning. My assigned classrooms focused on history and science, and let me tell you-- what a time I had with all those kids! Their faces and smiles is something I will not forget.

Our afternoons were dedicated in the nursing home, directly across the street from the school, in which we spent mainly drawing and painting to rejuvenate brain activity. Additionally, focusing on mathematics for the males and reading for the females. I will always cherish how excited everyone was to see our team. Their radiating smiles shined across the rooms. My experience with the elderly was profoundly an unforgettable and heartwarming experience.

The memories from this mission trip are some that I will carry in my heart forever.

Perla's Experience

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 17:00:13 GMT