Strengthening Communities for Health and Climate Resilience in the Dominican Republic

In December 2023, Training To Impact (TTI) facilitated three-day training sessions in two Dominican Republic communities, focusing on health education and the impact of global warming. Our goal was to empower local residents with knowledge and tools to improve health and reduce their carbon footprint.

The first session in Yaiba, a rural community, saw participation grow from 30 to 50 people over three days. Through popular education techniques, participants identified their needs and brainstormed solutions, feeling empowered to make a positive impact.

In El Naranjito, a coastal community in Las Terrenas, over 50 adults and 10 children attended each day, engaging in discussions about improving their community and reducing their environmental impact. Ideas included cleaning neighborhoods, reducing waste, and creating community gardens.

TTI provided dinner each night with the help of local volunteers, who were instrumental in the event’s success. We also trained participants as community health promoters, or “promotores de salud,” equipping them with the skills to support their communities long-term. Over 30 individuals in each community received certificates recognizing them as promotores de salud, ready to spread awareness and lead change.

TTI also donated items to enhance climate resilience and health, including mosquito nets, fans, hygiene kits, kitchen supplies, blenders, air fryers, and sheets. These donations, raffled among participants, helped foster resilience against climate challenges.

Both communities have made great strides since the training. In Yaiba, residents have been advocating for garbage cans, while El Naranjito has started a community garden. We are proud of the progress they’ve made and remain committed to supporting their efforts.

Join Us in Making a Difference!

We’re excited to continue impacting these communities and invite you to join us. If you’re interested in sponsoring a garden or a garbage can, please reach out! Each garbage can costs $300 to install, and garden materials are about $100. Your support can make a meaningful difference.

Check out the photos from our sessions to see the incredible progress firsthand. Together, we can continue to create positive change and support vulnerable communities.

Thank you for being part of this journey with us!

Naranjito, Las Terrenas, R.D.