Dominican Republic Spiritan Mission Experience 2026

Who we are

We are a group of 9 students from Duquesne University alongside a Spiritan Campus Minister planning a mission trip to San Juan de la Maguana in the Dominican Republic. Spiritan Congregations have had an impact in San Juan de la Maguana since 1703; this summer we get to supplement and strengthen that relationship, as well as allow students to create new bonds not only with each other, but with youth from the parish of Nuestra Señora de la Esperanza.

One of our favorite traditions as part of this trip is getting to spend time with and form friendships with the Dominican youth volunteers — whether that’s by sharing meals, stories, or laughs during the week we spend together. At the end of the week, we hold a dinner where students and camp volunteers exchange letters, memories, and thanks for the past few days. Though we may have only recently met, our friendships will be held close to our hearts, even from miles and miles away.

Throughout the week, we help organize and facilitate structured activities for children including arts and crafts, sports, music and dance, storytelling and reading circles, and community games that foster creativity, connection, and joy. These shared experiences are designed not only to support child development and engagement, but also to encourage cross-cultural friendship and mutual learning between students and local youth.

Why we need your help

We will be fundraising to support a 5 day-long camp held at Nuestra Señora de la Esperanza. At this church camp, kids aged roughly from 5–10 will have opportunities to bond over activities like crafts, song and dance, story times, and sports. With your help we will be able to provide the best experience possible to this community, and create sincere, lifelong memories that these children might otherwise not participate in.

In past years, donations have also supported lasting community projects — including helping to renovate the outdoor basketball court at the parish — ensuring that the impact of this partnership continues beyond the duration of the trip.

Get connected!

SME Blog: https://spiritancampusministry.wordpress.com