My experience in the Dominican Republic was amazing. I learned so much during the 10 days we were there. Everything was so new. The atmosphere, the style of driving, and the shopping.

We had one week in the orphanage in Puerto Plata, where we helped build the walls on the second floor. As a team, we passed bricks up the stairs, as well as buckets full of dirt and gravel to make cement.

We had lots of extra time when we weren't building, where we got to interact and play with the children. They were adorable. You couldn't understand them, and they couldn't understand you, but we could still play things that didn't require speaking, like soccer, volleyball, or sidewalk chalk.

I left a big piece of my heart at the orphanage. I would go on another trip to the Dominican in a heartbeat. Everyone we met was so kind. Even just driving down the street, everyone you'd see would wave or smile at you. We were very welcomed.

Our team went on this trip to bless others. But coming home, I know that this trip blessed me. I highly recommend this trip for anyone.

Avery J, 16