On May 5th, during this build, Alex would have been turning 30 years old. As a gift, the build will be an amazing opportunity for young adults to take a moment to Live Like Alex. We have made it a priority with this build to connect with youth to continue to spread the legacy of her life - making it a priority to show love and compassion towards others as we learn so much about ourselves. We are so excited to be joining forces with some amazing youth groups from Universities in Ontario to bring together a group of like minded young adults who will make a lasting difference in the lives of so many.
Alex joined us on the ground in the Dominican Republic for a World Vision Leadership Build in 2013 and became a big believer in the work that was being done. Alex loved to journal, and while sitting on the beach in Sosua she wrote that she had met "the most humble and giving people" in reference to the community. She especially loved the children and admired their sense of humour and resilience. She wrote "they have the biggest smiles and warm hearts". For her, it was a life-changing experience and after returning home, she vowed that she would return. Unfortunately, due to a tragic accident that cut her life short, she never had the opportunity to revisit the community and continue making a difference in the lives of families that were needing safe housing. In honour of her life, Alex's mother Pat along with her good friend Tina began to organize a special trip that would help further Alex's dream of families receiving places to call home. Pat and Tina have organized 5 trips thus far and are getting ready to make another one happen...this time with Alex's cousin Andrea. Alex was a reminder that when we die "the stuff" doesn't come with us. It's the memories and the legacy we leave behind that matter.
When you join us on a Build in the Dominican Republic, you'll have the chance to immerse yourself in the culture while leaving a lasting impact in the lives of families and communities that need it most.
You'll work hard alongside volunteers, ground staff, translators, local contractors, and a deserving family so that you can all celebrate together and welcome them into their safe, new home. During the 9 days, lives are changed and connections are made that can last a lifetime.
The work itself is the reason we come together, but we'll also be introducing you to all the communities we work in, bring you to our favourite Caribbean restaurant called Mama Maria's, and give you a chance to see why it's called paradise (think of palm trees and views overlooking the ocean).
Over the years, volunteers like you have joined us to construct homes, schools, community centres, and other projects for communities along the north coast of the island. No previous experience is necessary for a Build, only a desire to make a difference in the lives of others.
Thank you for your interest in this life-changing experience. Please read through the following information and feel free to contact us at any time if you have questions.
Minimum Fundraising Requirements:
$2,995 - This is the amount each volunteer has been asked to fundraise/contribute in order to join us on this LiveDifferent Build, with an initial $300 due within two weeks of registration.
