Gaylord/Manistee Rotary trip to the Dominican Republic
Posted by John Ester
on Feb 16, 2016
Mitch Deisch, Benzie Sunrise member formerly with Manistee Rotary, told us about the recent humanitarian trip to the Dominican Republic jointly sponsored by the Gaylord and Manistee Rotary Clubs. The recent trip was the 19th for the Gaylord Club and the 8th for Manistee Club.
On this annual trip the Rotarians take high school students to a third-world country to work on various projects. The visitors act essentially as a construction crew, helping build community centers, class rooms and the like. Through the trip the students are exposed to a new culture, and they learn about their role as international citizens. Hopefully they will be engaged to become future leaders and Rotarians.
On the most recent trip the student contingent consisted of 12 girls and 4 boys. The total cost is about $1,500 per person. Students are responsible for raising funds themselves, although the Rotary Clubs help out by covering the cost of lodging and building materials. According to Mitch, it was an amazing experience for all concerned--one that he would like to make available for Benzie County kids, as well.