In late September I landed in the Dominican Republic (DR) for my first mission trip. While the country boasts a $1 billion tourist industry, 40% of Dominicans live in poverty, surviving on less than $1.50 a day. Unemployment stands at 60%, and many families struggle to afford food, clean water, and safe shelter. Some, tragically, are even forced to sell their children into slavery, contributing to the country’s $9.5 billion human trafficking industry.

These heartbreaking issues motivated me to join a mission organized by my Ransom Church community in partnership with Casas por Cristo. Working alongside the Dominican church, Casas por Cristo’s volunteers help provide the gift of safe, secure housing and share the truth of God’s love with the family who receives the house and the entire community.

As the plane touched down, I was thrilled to finally fulfill a childhood dream of going on a mission trip! That excitement quickly turned to worry about how I’d connect with the family and community since I don’t speak Spanish. Then, just as quickly, anticipation took over as I prepared to be the hands and feet of Jesus in a new place. Throughout the many emotional peaks and valleys of the experience, what I felt most often was peace. No matter what we encountered, I knew the Holy Spirit was hard at work with us.

The community welcomed us as if we were family, their kindness and faith transcending any language gaps. Through smiles, nods, and laughter, our shared belief in God united us more powerfully than words ever could. They brought tools, food, and an infectious spirit of cooperation. Working side by side, every swing of the hammer carried weight—not only because it was exhausting work in 90° heat but because of what it represented. Their dedication and gratitude inspired us all.

By the end of the trip, a sturdy house stood where there was once only dirt, a testament to the power of shared faith and the incredible bonds formed when people come together for a common cause. More than just walls and a roof, we wove a tapestry of faith, hope, and friendship that will last well beyond our time in the DR. As my first build it will forever hold a special place in my heart, but I know it’s not the last as I’ll be planning many more missions’ trips in the future!

A special thanks to my family, my workplace, my friends, and countless others for the financial and emotional support.

Source: https://casasporcristo.org/locations/dominican-republic-mission-trips/

At Cornerstone, we strive to Invest in People by taking action and making a transformative difference. Team members can receive a Charitable Incentive Match and are afforded paid time off for volunteer hours. #InvestInPeople #BeyondNumbers

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Raymond James is not affiliated and does not endorse Ransom Church or Casas por Cristo. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Cornerstone Financial Solutions, Inc. is not a registered broker/ dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. CSP #644154 Exp. 11.7.25