ILI Travel invites teachers and professors to partner with us for an immersive global leadership and service experience in the Dominican Republic.
This 8-day program is designed to provide students with meaningful hands-on engagement in a Dominican elementary school, working directly with Dominican children, teachers, and school leaders to provide educational enrichment and cultural exchange.
This is not a passive service trip—students will be active participants in the daily life of a local school, leading lessons, engaging in recreational activities, and forming personal connections with the children and educators. They will gain first-hand experience with the challenges and strengths of the local education system, all while immersing themselves in Dominican culture through service, historical tours, and community activities.
Program Details
- Destination: Dominican Republic
- Duration: 8 days
- Number of Participants:
- Minimum: 15 students
- Chaperones: 1 chaperone for every six paying students
A Typical Day in the Dominican Republic
Each day follows a structured schedule designed to maximize student engagement, cultural immersion, and service-learning:
- 7:00 AM – Breakfast
- 8:00 AM – 12:30 PM – Volunteering at the school (leading activities, tutoring, assisting teachers, engaging in recreational programs)
- 12:30 PM – Dominican-style lunch
- 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM – Volunteering at the school (continuing morning activities, supporting local teachers, group activities with Dominican students)
- 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM – Afternoon cultural activities. Examples include:
- Historical Tour (e.g., Columbus’ fort, Jewish history museum)
- Dominican-American Sports (e.g.: basketball, volleyball, softball, or soccer game)
- Hospital Tour
- Beach visit
- 6:30 PM – Dinner
- 7:30 PM – Group reflections and guided discussions
Throughout the experience, students are encouraged to reflect on their impact and personal growth during guided evening discussions led by both bilingual Dominican staff and American leaders.
What’s Included in the Program Fee?
- Round-trip airfare
- Accommodations for 8 days
- All meals in the Dominican Republic
- 24/7 transportation in the Dominican Republic
- Full-time bilingual Dominican Tour Director
- Cultural programs, excursions, and museum tours
- Direct engagement with local Dominican students and school officials
- Sustainable service project with a local elementary school
- Ongoing post-trip leadership and service program
Additional Costs (Not Included in Program Fee)
- Personal spending money
- Tips for Dominican staff (approximately $100 per participant)
- Optional excursions (zip lining, Monkey Jungle, surfing lessons—by request of the school)
- Optional donations for purchasing local school supplies and groceries for food-insecure families
The Impact: More Than Just a Trip
We’re more than just visitors—we are partners in supporting Dominican children’s education and well-being.
This program fosters deep, lasting connections between American students and the Dominican community.
My experience on the trip was life-changing, as I formed deep connections with the children and school principal, whose passion and dedication to her students inspired me deeply. From playing basketball with community members to touring small businesses to understand their challenges, I gained a profound appreciation for the resilience and unity of the community.
Connor Stevens
Commitment to Sustainable, Ethical Travel
At ILI Travel, we believe in the power of locally-defined sustainability goals. Our program is built upon direct partnerships with local school leaders, ensuring that all service projects align with the needs and priorities of the community. This commitment is rooted in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Additionally, we prioritize ethical travel and fair wages by ensuring all Dominican staff members are compensated fairly, making ILI Travel an employer of choice in the Dominican Republic.
Safety and Support
The safety of students is our number one priority. Throughout the trip, students are accompanied by:
- Full-time bilingual Dominican Tour Director
- Dedicated bus driver providing 24/7 support
- Chaperones and American group leaders
- Emergency assistance available at all times
My daughter recently took her second trip with Dr. Hall and ILI Travel—another life-changing experience. As parents, we felt she was safe traveling with the group. The experience of working with the children and the school was deeply fulfilling. The guides went out of their way to make it a great experience.
Barry Jerome
Interesting in joining us?
Learn More about Leading with Purpose: Working Side-by-Side with Dominican Children
Our team is available to answer any questions about program logistics, safety, academic alignment, or housing. Contact ILI Travel today to reserve your preferred travel dates and start preparing for a journey of service, learning, and cultural connection.