“I have never had an experience quite like the one I had when I went to the Dominican Republic. I learned more and had more fun than I could have imagined in one week. I fell in love with the country, culture, and lifestyle. The Dominican Republic and GCE will always have a special place in my heart.” - Cathey Price, Naples High School, Naples, FL

 

“Although I was fortunate enough to experience the natural beauty of the Dominican Republic, we also visited Cienfuegos, much more shocking and profound.  La Mosca will stay with me for the rest of my life, the sight, the smell, and the sounds. It is not right that people all over the world are blind to the poverty and dire situations, such as those in Cienfuegos.” - Justin Summerville, Fort Myers High School, Fort Myers, FL


“As a professional, working in the field of Pharmaceutical Sales, as well as being an elected official to the city of Fort Myers, it was a gift to work closely with such a talented group of young people who have such a well developed sense of global consciousness.”  - Warren Wright, Fort Myers, FL City Councilman


“This was one of the most amazing weeks of my life, and probably the most intense. I loved everything about it, and everyone that I was with. Going to the DR was a real eye opening experience.” – Brittany Workinger, Naples High School, Naples, FL


“Everyone should have this experience at least once in your life, because once you go you’re hooked and you’ll want to go again.  One of my favorite things about the trip is how well everyone got to know each other so quickly. The Dominicans are like one big family, and welcomed everyone with open arms.  It’s hard to find that in a lot of people.” -  Haley Hjelseth, Naples High School, Naples, FL


“Words cannot explain the true impact GCE has had in my life. The mission of GCE has ignited my purpose not only as a professional but as a member of the global community and the needs of our most vulnerable populations. I am indebted and ever grateful for the gift given to me by Dr. Ingrid Martinez-Rico and Dr. Craig Heller in helping me realize the positive impact of intercultural collaborations.”  – Victor Tejera, Ph. D, Social Worker, Miami-Dade County Schools


“It showed me a part of the world that I have never seen and a culture that I love. I respect everyone that is involved in GCE for their commitment and their love for the kids and I hope that I can do it all again next year.” - Josh Mesnik, Naples High School, Naples, FL


“Going with GCE to the Dominican Republic was the best experience I have ever had. Everyone from GCE is accommodating and friendly. I felt comfortable the minute I met them and they have provided me with life lessons and lasting friendships. I know I will be going back to the Dominican Republic again, and I cannot wait to do it!” - Kate Burzynski, Naples High School, Naples, FL


I realized how little I knew about The Dominican Republic and was pleasantly surprised at how modern things were in general. The infrastructure is there, it just needs to be made available to the general population. I feel that great strides can be made with programs like GCE and if cooperation can be attained from the government through nationals such as Dona Milagros.” – Brian Wyllie, Master Builder