Hi, I am Perla. I am from the Dominican Republic, but grew up in Germany where I have recently completed my studies in social work. The transition from my studies to working at NPH as a volunteer was a very fitting decision for me. I work in the social work department here in San Pedro de Macorís, Dominican Republic. Since I grew up in the region, it made sense for me to work in my homeland. The surroundings here are very diverse. San Pedro de Macorís is a lively city with a lot going on, especially in the more central areas. There are many markets, small shops, and restaurants that liven up the streets. However, we are also surrounded by many poorer neighborhoods, known as “Bateyes,” where the living conditions are very basic. These areas are a daily reminder of how important NPH’s work is. Despite the challenges that many people face here, there is also a strong sense of community. It’s nice to live in a somewhat quieter area while still having easy access to busier cities.
A typical day for me starts early. I usually wake up at 7:00 a.m. to get ready for the day. Work begins at 8:00 a.m., and I head to the social work office. There, I meet with my colleagues, and we discuss the tasks for the day. Often, we are integrating children who are new to our program. These children are usually referred to us by other organizations like “Conani”. We visit the children in the homes where they are staying frequently to ensure that they are doing well and have everything they need. These visits are an important way to maintain contact with the children and show them that they are in a safe environment.
A large part of my work also involves administrative tasks, such as preparing documents and reports on the children living at NPH. These reports are important to ensure that each child receives the support they need. At 12:00 p.m., we have lunch. I typically meet with my colleagues, and we eat together. This break is a nice opportunity to clear our minds and catch up with each other. After lunch, I continue working in the office until 4:00 p.m. After work, I go home, freshen up, and often spend some time with the children who live nearby.
In the evenings, I frequently go to one of the NPH homes to have dinner with the children and play with them. It brings me great joy to spend this time with them and see how comfortable they feel. Around 9:00 p.m., I usually get ready for bed, so I can be energized for the next day.
I am involved in the “Chicas Poderosas” program, where I work closely with young girls, helping them develop confidence and leadership skills. Additionally, I am part of a project that aims to establish a Community Center in a nearby area, which still needs to be fully developed. This center will provide much-needed resources and support for the local community, and I am excited to be a part of its planning and implementation
In my opinion, NPH has an enormous impact on the children. Many of the children who come to us have difficult backgrounds and have already been through a lot at a young age. Without NPH’s help, many of them would not have the chance for a safe and stable life. They could grow up without parents and may be at risk of falling into poverty or becoming involved in criminal activities. However, NPH not only provides them with a roof over their heads but also comprehensive care. Here, they can go to school, receive medical care, and are surrounded by loving people who take care of their well-being.
The opportunity to learn and develop gives the children a perspective that they might not have had otherwise. Here, they have the chance to pursue their dreams and grow up in a supportive community. It’s not only a place of safety but also of joy and hope. Children who grow up at NPH have access to education, which is a fundamental requirement for success later in life. Additionally, they always receive support when they need it, whether it’s emotional or practical. Legal assistance is also crucial because many children come to us without documents, and NPH helps them obtain all the necessary paperwork to lead a normal life in the future.
In summary, NPH is a place that not only provides children with a home but also offers them the opportunity to grow up happy, healthy, and safe. It’s a place that, for many of them, marks the beginning of a new, better life, and it’s incredibly rewarding to be part of this organization and witness how much positive change is happening here.