We are back in El Peñón after our time exploring the southwestern coasts of the Dominican Republic. It’s hard to believe that we only have two more days in our beloved second home and the students are eager to soak up every minute of it with their friends in the community. Many of the students have befriended local boys who play basketball at a community court a block away from where we are staying. Some of the students love interacting with moms and their babies, while others have bonded with our cooks and have focused their independent projects on cooking and smoothie making. Everyone has found a little niche here in El Peñón and after our last two days, it will be hard to say goodbye.

Our first full day back we organized a camp for the kids in the community. The goal was to provide fun games and activities centered around basic English learning. Activities included Simon Says, races, mural painting, face painting, bubbles, and counting with water balloons. Who knew this would be such a challenge! The kids of the community left with big grins on their faces but our group was rather worn out. The students certainly had more appreciation for teachers and many commented on this after some reflection time.  

The next day was our last day in El Peñón. Everyone set out at the beginning of the day to interact with the part of the community that they had connected most with. Many went to the basketball court as the rest of the group went to the local park. After some bonding time, Jason, Hamza, Owen, and Steven (one of the cook’s sons) went to Barahona to buy supplies for a celebration while everyone else set about preparing for the special event.

The goodbye party commenced with Jason and Kate speaking some words of thanks to the community and each of the students making a few statements, which were translated by Maria.  Then some members of the community spoke. Everyone seemed happy to have had the time to connect and were sad to say goodbye.

After the more formal party, we opened the gates to the children of the community. Everyone enjoyed one last night and was able to say goodbye.