The approximate cost for each team member is $2,400-$2,500.

Here’s how this breaks down (All numbers approximate):

FLIGHT: $900-$1,000 with group rate discount
INSURANCE: $50
LODGING w/MEALS: $500
MATERIALS: $900
ON-SITE MEALS: $70

The Dioceses of Eastern and Western Michigan have a policy to assist missioners with the cost of their trip. The diocese commits to paying 1/3 of the total cost of the trip, with the understanding that the missioner will pay or raise 1/3 and their parish will pay or raise 1/3.

As a team member you are required to solicit funds for your trip. This is not easy for some, but remember, you are not asking for funds for yourself but for support of the DR project and relationship building.

We are in the DR to learn from a culture and a group of people. We are guests. We must put aside our need to have all the answers or to know what is best in any situation.

We are patient.

….with time: This is a culture where events do not take place on the clock. Things start when they start. We may spend a lot of time waiting. Building relationships and being with people are much more important than beginning something on time.

…with language: Spanish is spoken. Even if you know some Spanish, you will probably not always know what’s going on. It will be difficult to get your point across. This is an opportunity to learn ways other than speech to communicate!

We are vulnerable. Traveling in a different country where you aren’t familiar with the language, customs, food, and people, you have the opportunity to become vulnerable. This vulnerability is a gift because it is through being vulnerable that we must rely on each other, on our hosts, and on God. Please be aware of the dangers – both in safety and disease – and act accordingly.

Food and water: Be very careful of what you eat. We advise you not to eat from the vendors on the Malecon or on the beach. Do so at your own risk. Do not ingest water. Use bottles of water to drink and brush your teeth. Do not get ice in your soda except at the hotel – the ice at La Lomar is safe to consume. The food in the Dominican Republic is very good but may be more adventurous than you are used to. If you are a picky eater, please pack and bring snacks.

Plumbing: This country does not have a sophisticated plumbing system in many areas. In many cases, including your hotel room, there is a waste basket beside the toilets – these are for the toilet paper instead of flushing. Much of the plumbing ends up in ravines so try to the best of your ability to accommodate this.

Military Check-Points: You may see military check-points where we drive and there may be security guards carrying machine guns. Our building site is in a tourist area so it is unlikely we will see this. It is more common near the Haitian border.

We are modest.

To respect the culture and to convey our best representation of the church it is important to be modest. Please dress modestly, refrain from swearing or crude language, and be conscious of how you relate with others, especially with people of the opposite sex.

– Permission Form for Traveling Minors
– (Notary Required) Missionary Statement
– Apply for a US Passport 
– Packing List

What will I be doing?
As a team member, you will work alongside your fellow missioners and the Dominican community on projects that can range from construction to formation programs for kids.
You will also form truly transformational relationships with the people you will meet and work with, sharing life and spirituality through time in worship, fellowship, and shared purpose.

Will there be any required pre-trip meetings?
Yes, you will receive more information about scheduling after you apply. These may take place online via Zoom.

What should I bring with me?
Great question! Click this link to check out our recommended packing list.

Do I need to speak Spanish?
Nope! While it certainly helps, you do not need to speak Spanish to participate on a mission trip. We’ll have people who can translate along with us and you are sure to pick some up along the way and to learn other ways of communicating!

Am I too young to go?
Missioners need to be at least 15 years of age unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.
In addition, Minor to Travel forms must be signed and notarized.

Am I too old to go?
Nope! There’s something to do for every age.

Where will we stay?
It depends on the project. Sometimes we stay in dorm-like accommodations and sometimes we’re in a traditional hotel. It can vary.

Do I need a passport?
Yes. If you don’t already have one, click here for information about applying. The application process usually takes about six weeks.

Do I need a travel visa?
No! This is now included in the price of your airline ticket.

What is the climate like?
The DR is a tropical country in the caribbean. Because elevations vary widely, you may see varied climates over quite short distances. During our summer mission projects, it is usually warm and humid.

Can I bring gifts?
Any gifts or items to be left in the DR must go through the priest – this is an absolute, no exceptions. We are there as guests to form relationships.