Connect, Learn, Explore

Join Comunidad Connect in the Dominican Republic

Service Learning Journeys:

Traveling with Comunidad Connect combines eco-tourism with community service, so volunteers have fun while making a difference in the lives of others. Our Service Learning Journeys typically last from one to two weeks and include technical and non-technical volunteer work,  recreational excursions and cultural exchange activities. Groups can visit sites in Nicaragua or the Dominican Republic and customize itineraries based on learning objectives, aspirations for community service, or areas of interest. 

Community projects vary based on the season and local priorities at the time, but often include home renovation, clean-cook ovens and stoves, concrete floors and water filters. Volunteers can also drive impact on a community level by working with local health promoters, youth groups, churches and clinics to improve community assets such as parks, schools, clinics, and community centers.

Every journey begins with the first step…

Jon Thompson- Co-Founder / CEO,  Yarisleidy Cortez- Director of Community Development, Enma Gutierrez- Los Robles Nurse

Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic, located on the Eastern half of the Hispaniola Island, boasts of pristine white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, making it a top destination for tropical getaways. Not far past the resorts, the countryside’s lush rolling hills and tropical climate create a perfect landscape for ecotourism in rural communities. 

However, the distance from urban centers tends to isolate these rural communities from critical products and services. In the DR, we partner with local organizations and community associations that focus on health, education, and community development. 

Groups traveling to the Dominican Republic with Comunidad Connect usually visit the mountain town of Constanza, the North Coast, and the colonial district of Santo Domingo.

 

Community of Severet

 Cable car overlooking Puerto Plata

Colonial District, Santo Domingo

Nicaragua

Nicaragua, nicknamed the “land of lakes and volcanoes“, is a sight to behold. From the majestic rolling mountains of Jinotega, to the inviting beaches of San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua captures the hearts and imagination of all who visit. Known for their warm hospitality, rich cooking, and easy-going demeanor, Nicaraguans make strangers feel like family.

However, a tumultuous history and stifled development has left the country as one of the poorest in the eastern hemisphere. In rural areas, poverty rates are especially high, where 50% of households live in extreme poverty. Of a population of nearly 6 million, about 800,000 Nicaraguans lack access to improved water sources.

Our Cultural Connections programs hosts groups of volunteers in Nicaragua as part of a comprehensive strategy to alleviate poverty. Travelers generate resources, provide labor, and become advocates for future initiatives. They work side by side with local resident leaders and Comunidad Connect staff. Year-round social programs include primary and preventive healthcare, housing, food security, and small business development. 

Coffee-covered mountains of Northern Nicaragua

Groups traveling to the northern highlands of Nicaragua stay at Finca El Peten, an organic coffee farm embedded in the community of Los Robles (pop. 2,100). With magnificent views of the lake and the distant mountains, visitors will enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner overlooking Lake Apanas. Guests receive a guided walking coffee tour explaining the entire cultivation and production process as well as the importance of direct trade.

Groups bound for San Juan del Sur stay in hotels or hostels in the city within walking distance of the beach. Volunteer opportunities abound at the Comunidad Connect Sports Park, home base for our basketball, soccer, volleyball, and baseball programs. 

View from Finca el Peten lodging  

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