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Today marked the EVE Team’s first day of work in Juan Tomás, Dominican Republic. I am here alongside Angela, Patty, Sydney, Ramona, and myself. This morning, we began with a discussion about curiosity and humility as we step into a new culture and begin this important work. We are missing Barb and Debbie, but we carry them in our hearts as we move forward.
We started the day rested and eager to finally see the community in the daylight, as we had arrived when it was still dark. The five of us were ready and excited to begin our education sessions with the Grade 4 and 5 students.
In true EVE fashion, we came in with a plan — but we were also ready to pivot and adapt, which we did. We ended up combining into two groups, with all five of us working together in each session. The students were enthusiastic and shared wonderful reflections about their strengths, what makes them special, and the importance of having good friends they can trust.
Their “Flower Power” crafts turned out beautifully. As usual, they especially loved decorating them with stickers!
After a delicious and filling lunch with Carlos and the team, Jonathan gave us a tour of Juan Tomás and the school grounds. It was encouraging to see the growth and improvements that have taken place, and inspiring to hear about the exciting plans for the future.
The team then had a much-needed rest before finishing the evening at the local church, where we began leadership training and prayer. Our vision and message seemed to resonate well. We received meaningful feedback and were able to reconnect with people the team had met two years ago.
Tonight, we look forward to a restful sleep and waking up ready for a full day of leadership training tomorrow.
As EVE, we are reminded that our work is not about arriving with answers, but about creating space for learning, dignity, and empowerment. When we lead with humility and curiosity, we do more than teach — we build relationships, plant seeds of confidence, and continue the ripple of hope that reaches far beyond a single day.
