Last week, we had the honor and privilege of donating our time to lead a team of twenty incredibly hard-working and energetic volunteers, mostly college students, from First Presbyterian Church of Hickory, North Carolina.
While most of us on the island and in the tourism industry have returned to “business as usual,” there are still many in the rural parts of Puerto Rico who need help. The team contributed by replacing and repairing roofs, installing running water and toilets, clearing debris, delivering hot food, solar lights, and water filters, and so much more, in the mountainous areas of San Sebastian. Just as importantly, we brought a bit of dignity, and a lot of love and laughter, to a community that has been virtually forgotten since Hurricane Maria.
In our downtime (work hard, play hard!) we were also able to travel to stunning waterfalls, world-class beaches, and historic Old San Juan to enjoy Puerto Rico’s treasures and contribute a bit to our local tourism economy. The team is super excited to help spread the word that Puerto Rico is still so beautiful and so ready to welcome visitors!!
You can read more and see photos about our experiences giving back, and gaining so much in return, here: https://fpcpr.wordpress.com
We can never begin to thank all those who helped make such an extraordinary week happen, but here are a few. GRACIAS, and love and blessings to you all!
Campamento El Guacio
Marisol Vélez (aka Erin Brockovitch)
PESAC
Point School Puerto Rico
Chris Mays & Johnathan Little
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
Presbyterian Disaster Assistance
Edwin A. González-Castillo
Sha’s
Gozalandia
Ferretería Comercial Felo Inc & Lanco Paints and Sealers
UZima Clean Water Mission
Edwin Cortes San Sebastian Bed & Breakfast
Darryl Stansbury
John Ellis
La Casa del Dorado
Museo De La Hamaca
Ferreterías Oronoz
National Lumber & Hardware
Danna Car Rental
Pirilo Pizza Rústica de Dorado
The Gallery Inn