Dominican Republic

In July 1962, 22 Peace Corps Volunteers arrived in the Dominican Republic to work in community development projects throughout the country. Since then, more than 4,000 Volunteers have served in agriculture, urban and rural development, environment, small business development, health and education. Currently, there are about 150 Volunteers serving in the Dominican Republic.

The Peace Corps opened its program in the Dominican Republic in 1962 and Volunteers have always been well-received by the Dominican people. Even during times of political tension, strong personal bonds have been maintained. It is notable that the Peace Corps remained in the Dominican Republic during the suspension of diplomatic relations in 1963 and the civil war of 1965. Volunteers have assisted in relief efforts following Hurricanes David, Frederick, and Georges. The Peace Corps was recognized with the country's highest medal in 1986 during the agency's 25th anniversary celebration.

Volunteers provide direct community-based technical assistance to the most marginalized sectors of the population to promote self-help strategies that respond to basic human needs and strengthen community efforts. Volunteers strive to increase local capacity for problem solving and form linkages among and across grassroots, regional, and national organizations.

In November 2000, the government requested the Peace Corps' assistance in implementing information technology programs in the country. Volunteers provide technical assistance for a national school-based computer laboratory project. Information technology remains a special area of focus and is incorporated into existing project areas.

Peace Corps is collaborating with the Ministry of Education to incorporate special education methodologies into public schools, developing programs specific to youth, and coordinating efforts with Volunteers who serve along the border in Haiti. Due to the country's continued vulnerability to natural disasters, Peace Corps/Dominican Republic is committed to increasing the capacity of local communities to prepare for and mitigate the effects of natural disasters.

Last updated Sep 27 2008