“Vision without action is merely a dream. Action without vision just passes the time. Vision with action can change the world.”
An organization in the Dominican Republic goes by this quote. This organization goes by the name Yo Soy Fundeji (I am Fundeji). Their main goal is to improve education for those who cannot afford it or do not live close to another learning facility. Today, we went to an impoverished town called Jinova. When we arrived, it looked like something you would see in a “penny for a life” commercial. The organization was created by a resident named Roberto. They have been working in the community for two years and now they are working on a library. They already found a building to work with and everyone believes it has plenty of potential. They have received book donations for the current college students and we are strategizing to determine how we can discover, design, and deliver a community action project for this community.
Personally, we have bonded very quickly. Most of us really like the food and have so many inside jokes between us all, and its a great feeling. Sometimes people feel a little homesick or sick, but we always pull together and take care of each other.
We are also starting to see the differences between a developed country like the U.S. and a developing country like the D.R. We cannot throw toilet paper in the toilet, we must throw it in the garbage because their plumbing system gets clogged and cannot sustain the paper. We also have to conserve on electricity to prevent outages, and take warm/cold showers. Finally, we are learning how to respect the differences in our cultures and to understand the perspectives of others.
You guys are doing great work. I like that you all understand the value of team spirit and are supportive of each other. I am proud of you all. Keep up the good work. I miss you Kaya!!! Hugs and Kisses to you and Jewel.
It was the best surprise ever when I heard your voice today! I’m so happy you are living this experience and learning so much. Oh, and Issak tells you (as promised) that Chile won the Copa América, and that the United States won the Women’s World Cup. From the five of us back home, we miss you, love you, and can’t wait to hear all of what you’ve done in the Dominican Republic once you’re back. Have fun and be safe!
P.S.: Panchito is keeping your bed warm for the duration of your trip.
Kevin, thanks for the update. It’s good to see the work that has been done over there and how you and your group are facilitating change. You should be as proud of yourself/selves as i am. Wish I could be with you. i got a call Sunday after church to work with NYS Dept. of Education. I spent this week looking at potential questions for upcoming state math exams. I enjoyed the work ESPECIALLY because it was math. I’m now on my way home on Amtrak. Can you believe I’m not driving? Keep up the good work. We’ll have a lot to talk about when you return.
What a coincidence…I am here at a seven day cohort on leadership, and we have been discussing the importance of meeting our mission to provide academic excellence to a population that can not otherwise afford a quality education. I am impressed Kevin! You are learning so much in such a short period of time. Know that I am proud of you and all the global glimpsers for your courage to step out of your comfort zone and to provide a much needed service (and presence) to those less fortunate than yourselves. Kevin you are truly coming into your God-fearing being! Continue to enjoy this wonderful learning experience. We love you and miss you much xoxoxo PS your little brother looks in your room every evening when we get home and asks, “Mommy when is my KJ brother coming home?” I hope to hear your voice soon ~Mommy