Owen Neace
Dominican Republic Leader
1. What inspired you to join VISIONS?
My interest in community-led service projects and connecting with people from all over the world.
2. What experiences have shaped your passion for community service and youth development?
My work as an educator and interpreter (including Summer 2023 in the BVI and Summer 2024 in Perú!), along with my varied experiences volunteering and traveling abroad.
3. What is your favorite achievement?
Inspiring students as a language and arts teacher.
4. What is your favorite place you’ve traveled?
Pongo de Mainique, Perú.
5. What is the best advice you’ve received?
Listen to understand, not to respond.
6. What do you hope to accomplish this summer?
Acquire more building skills and conservation knowledge, immerse myself in the local culture, and make a positive, sustainable impact.
7. What are you most excited about this summer?
Visiting Los Haitises National Park and La Cueva de la Línea Nature Preserve.
8. If you had to give one piece of advice or words of encouragement to someone on their first VISIONS experience, what would it be?
Go with openness, humility, and curiosity.
Recent blog posts
Spotlight: Emily, VISIONS Peru Alum
Emily was inspired to join VISIONS Peru because of her passion for environmental science and sustainability. She put her all into the worksites and practicing Spanish, and came home with even more plans for her future after high school.
Q&A with Ryan and Annie, VISIONS Leader Alum
Annie and Ryan are VISIONS leader alums who dedicated multiple summers together to running VISIONS summer programs for teens. They share insights about impactful community service, and how they have continued to live a life together that exemplifies cultural immersion and volunteer work.
Spotlight: Soledad, A 2024 VISIONS BVI Alum
Sole was able to participate in our last ever BVI program in summer of 2024. She reflects on friendship and service, and how serving a community she loved changed her views. She didn’t even miss her phone!
Empathy in Action: High School Volunteers Join Veterinary Effort in the D.R.
Partnering with local vets, teens contribute to animal welfare through spay & neuter clinics. These volunteer opportunities for high schoolers teach empathy & educate teens the importance of caring for all aspects of their community, including the animals.