Thrive in Joy’s 21st Mission Trip to the Dominican Republic: A Joy-Filled Journey with Notre Dame High School
From June 2 to 9, Thrive in Joy embarked on its 21st service trip to the Dominican Republic. Partnering with Casa Misionera, this year’s mission team included eight exceptional students from Notre Dame High School, joined by three dedicated chaperones, participating in the school’s second annual Immersion Trip with Thrive in Joy.
Reunion and Celebration at Remar Orphanage
We kicked off our week at the Remar Orphanage, where laughter and excitement filled the air as we played on the field dedicated to Nick and shared a fried chicken dinner with the children. A highlight of the evening was the premiere of a special short film Thrive in Joy created, chronicling our visits to Remar over the past 10 years. The youth delighted in seeing themselves grow up on screen, many who are now young adults saw themselves evolve from playful youngsters to thriving teens.
[Watch the film premiere HERE.]
Thanks to the generosity of the LB Charitable Foundation and the hard work of our Notre Dame mission team, construction began on a new residence for the Remar Orphanage Director. This important project will allow the orphanage to care for more girls …a need for a safe home for girls rescued from challenging situations is a great need in the county. Meanwhile, with the help of our incredible Casa Misionera teammates, we restored the Thrive in Joy mural on the orphanage sports field, leaving a constant reminder of Nick’s legacy of love and service.
Tia Tatiana School and Community Outreach in Herrera
Arriving at Tia Tatiana School just in time for morning assembly, our team split into groups and accomplished a whirlwind of activities. Within two hours, we painted an entire classroom and spent joyful moments with 172 children across six grade levels, from Pre-K to 4th grade, using play-dough and pipe cleaners to spark creativity. Where language could have been a divide, laughter and smiles filled the gaps.
In the afternoon, we walked through the Herrera community, visiting elderly residents and families in need. We delivered food supplies, shared prayers, and listened to the challenges facing those who welcomed us into their humble homes with open hearts.
Exploration and Lasting Memories
Midweek, we enjoyed a memorable outing with the Remar children at the National Aquarium, followed by a visit to the Christopher Columbus monument, an architectural marvel that stretches from the explorer’s tomb. Our time together was elevated with heartfelt farewells at Remar, an afternoon at the beach, a stop at our favorite BBQ spot, a lively Saturday youth worship service, Sunday Mass at the oldest existing cathedral in the Americas, the Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor in the Colonial City of Santo Domingo, and cherished moments spent with our Casa Misionera family.
This mission trip was a testament to the power of compassion, faith, and teamwork. We extend our deepest thanks to the Notre Dame High School staff, parents, and students who made this journey possible, to our Thrive in Joy team for their unwavering dedication to serving others, and to Nelson Paulino and his family; Crisbel Jimenez, our trip leader; and all the Casa Misionera students who welcome us and do so much to make each trip so inspiring and fulfilling.