Students from Southwest Washington High Schools are warmly wlecomed by the community of La Escalereta, Dominican Republic

Stepping off of the plane and into the airport, we were immediately hit by hot air and humidity. We took an hours long bus ride filled with card games and finally arrived at the community center to cheers and smiling faces from the community of La Escalereta, Dominican Republic. With fruit filled cocktails in hand we explored the living quarters. The first interaction here shaped the rest of our adventure in the Dominican Republic, from learning to dance merengue, sharing delicious home-cooked meals, and practicing our Spanish, to learning and participating in new games we felt welcomed every minute.

We were happily dancing with the locals, having a great time when ice cold rain started flooding our sleeping area. Instantly the water was ankle deep and it was clear we would have to move out. Once people started noticing the flood, it didn’t change a thing. Everyone kept on dancing like nothing had happened. While we danced in the flooding room, multiple community members offered us their homes to stay in without even being asked. Following the large amounts of water turning the street into a river, children splashed in the stream while we came together to help others whose homes had flooded. This really showed us the heart that La Escalereta has.

Besides working hard together to build a court thirty years in the making, we participated in games with the youth in the community and shared traditional food like mofongo. For three days straight we worked alongside students and community members to haul countless buckets of gravel and sand. Finally, on the third day, the last load of concrete was poured and we celebrated together and took many photos to commemorate the moment. Fortunately, even after the court was completed, our trip was far from over. 

In the following days, we experienced many exciting opportunities, including zip lining and flying down natural water slides. We left our comfort zones and took a leap of faith into the bright blue canyon waters below. By visiting a female-run cacao center and learning about the traditional art of making coffee and hot cocoa, we learned more about Dominican culture and tradition. We tasted cacao beans during their different phases of preparation and tried ginger hot cocoa, noted by many as the best cocoa they had ever had. 

In the days we stayed in the community we not only got to know the locals better, but also our peers. The sports and games that we played brought the students from different high schools onto the same team. Dominican children shocked us at baseball with their astounding ability to throw and hit the ball. We introduced the community to other games like Spike Ball, which was played frequently throughout the week. Even though explaining rules was difficult for both parties, our desire to play together allowed us to overcome the language barriers. Love of sports, games, and people was abundant in La Escalereta, as demonstrated by the smaller kids especially. Many of them wanted to hold our hands and have conversations without even knowing our names. The caring attitude of the community is one thing that everyone talked about and that we will remember forever. 

There were a lot of surprises and unexpected experiences, which included the food. Oneida, our lovely cook, made us scrumptious meals every day. What surprised us was not how different the food was, but how similar. Dishes were served that were just like what we would eat in the United States and made us feel more at home. We were definitely introduced to some new foods, but the similarities were comforting. The community was so close knit, local children walked and played in the town safely without much adult supervision. Many would appreciate this in the United States, a secure environment where the community can come together for sports and play. 

Besides the locals who enhanced our experience through conversation and athletics, our chaperones created fun challenges for us and carefully planned itineraries to maximize our time. The challenges pushed people out of their comfort zones by forcing them to interact with others in a language that isn’t theirs, yet it was well worth the discomfort to learn about local traditions and beliefs. A highlight resulting from a challenge was a Courts for Kids rap written and performed by members of the group, a ‘blessing’ that ended up as a favorite memory for many in the group. Throughout our week in the Dominican Republic, we enjoyed communicating with the locals and coming together for challenges and performances that connected us with the community and each other. 

Our time in La Escalereta has given us much to think about and bring back home to the United States. The friendships we made with the locals and each other ever shaped the fun moments we had and the memories we cherish now. The community’s hospitality, graciousness, and willingness to patiently assist us in learning Spanish and about their way of life was appreciated throughout the trip. We strive to return with the lessons we’ve learned and understand that we’ll never forget our time here or the friends we met. 

~ Andre, Union High School and Scarlett, Camas High School

Volunteer Quotes:

Court for kids has been one of the greatest experiences I’ve ever done before. I’ve learned so much from this past week, and will definitely be leaving with a whole new perspective on life. I’ve experienced love, gratitude, careness, happiness and much more. One thing I’ve learned from the community and will continue to share in life is generosity and selflessness. People are so welcoming and kind willing to do anything in order to make others happy.  ~ Luna Rios Cruz 

One of my favorite memories from this trip is dancing with the locals during a rainstorm. Everyone was making the best of it even though we were supposed to be playing baseball outside. We were having so much fun dancing and singing. This community taught us that you have to make the best of everything in life. ~ Macy Boyd

What I learned about the world is that we’re all so culturally different but also so much more similar than we realize. We all share the same love for so many things and I’d say before this I guess I just thought that people from all around the world wanted different things out of themselves and their lives but they really don’t. ~ Analise Jaso

This experience taught me that true connection goes beyond language and technology. I learned from the community’s generosity, their willingness to adapt, and the way they opened their homes and hearts to us without hesitation. In moments of challenge, like the flooding, they showed kindness and unity in the most genuine way. Being there changed me, I became more open-minded, more grateful, and more aware of the value of human connection. I realized I don’t need my phone everywhere I go, and that real conversations are far more meaningful. What I will carry with me the most is the reminder that small acts of kindness and shared experiences can create a lasting impact. ~ Kaily Shi

This experience showed me how powerful it is to step out of my comfort zone and truly connect with others. From unforgettable moments like exploring nature and trying new adventures, to building genuine friendships without the distraction of technology, I realized how much we can learn from different people and cultures. Even the challenges, like the heat and unexpected changes, became part of what made the experience meaningful. Leaving was the hardest part, knowing these connections might not happen again, but I carry with me a deep sense of gratitude, joy, and growth that will stay with me long after this journey ends. ~ Emery Seitz 

This experience showed me that who we are is shaped by the people and communities around us, and that true connection doesn’t require time, just openness. In a short period, I built meaningful friendships, shared new experiences, and realized how much we all have in common despite our differences. I learned that stepping into a new environment can be uncomfortable, but it also creates space for growth, belonging, and understanding. More than anything, I leave with the realization that people everywhere are connected by the same need to feel accepted, supported, and part of something greater than themselves.
~ Bryton Nesland 

This experience reminded me of the importance of recognizing and valuing every person, understanding that everyone has a story worth sharing. It challenged me to step outside my comfort zone, to do things I once thought were impossible, and to grow through those moments. More than anything, it showed me the power of community—where people care for one another, support each other, and create a sense of belonging that is hard to leave behind. I walk away grateful, stronger, and inspired, carrying these lessons with me wherever I go. ~ Charlotte Jackson

Community Quotes:

After decades of waiting, what once felt impossible is now a living symbol of hope. Thanks to Courts for Kids, La Escalereta has gained more than a sports court - it has gained a safe space where dreams grow, values are strengthened, and future generations will learn, play, and thrive. This gift is not just an investment in infrastructure, but a lasting commitment to the heart and future of our community.  ~ Anderlin Familia

Sharing this journey with Courts for Kids was an unforgettable experience. Your passion, discipline, and genuine spirit of service turned challenges into moments of unity—proving that even in the face of unexpected storms, your commitment never wavers. La Escalereta carries deep gratitude in its heart, forever strengthened and filled with hope by the kindness and dedication you brought to our community. ~ Ronilson Peña, Teacher

This project showed the true strength of our community—how, when united, we can create more than a space, but a symbol of opportunity, connection, and hope. It reflects our values, our teamwork, and the powerful impact of coming together with purpose. I am deeply grateful and inspired by all that we achieved and all that is yet to grow. ~ Guillermo Geraldino

I cherished every second of working with this incredible group of students. Watching their passion, hard work, and adaptability unfold each day was truly an inspiration to me. Every day, they showed up ready to serve and embrace the purpose that brought them to the Dominican Republic. Seeing them step into a community that welcomed them with open arms, and witnessing the way they connected, learned, and integrated was something I will never forget. Most importantly, they proved not only to the community, but to themselves, that they are capable of doing meaningful things in the world rooted in kindness and gratitude. ~ Andy Umana, Peace Corps Volunteer

During my experience in this project, I had many beautiful and meaningful moments that I will always remember. We shared, learned, and had fun together in an environment full of joy and teamwork. One of the most positive parts of this experience was working on the court project, because it not only represents a space for sports, but also a place to bring the community together and promote values such as respect and teamwork. I feel very grateful to the foundation for giving us this opportunity, for their support, and for believing in us. Thanks to them, we were able to have such a special and enriching experience. ~ Aneudy Dominguez  AKA Gringo

My experience as a volunteer translator in the community of La Escalereta, Puerto Plata, was very meaningful to me. Not only did I have the opportunity to support the group and myself through language, but I also connected with incredible people. Despite challenges such as the rain, the community welcomed us into their homes with great kindness and generosity. I take with me a valuable lesson about solidarity, empathy, and the importance of small acts. Without a doubt, it was an experience I will always remember. ~ Mariloly Cuevas Díaz

Sharing that week with the Courts for Kids group was much more than just an experience—it was about companionship, kindness, teamwork, understanding, and solidarity in every moment. They work with an energy that is truly contagious and makes every experience feel special. For me, it was a wonderful opportunity to learn about their culture while also sharing my own. From the moment they arrived in our community, their joy and kindness were felt in every one of them. It was a truly beautiful and unforgettable experience. Thank you, Selene, and this amazing Courts for Kids team. ~Reyna Geraldino