The Visions Blog

Work Hard, Play Hard

VISIONS participants are learning what it’s like to live in a Dominican community through work and play

A group of people in casual clothes walk towards a lakeshore under a cloudy sky, surrounded by mountains and rocky terrain.

A handwritten journal entry in blue ink covers most of a notebook page. The writing is dense, with some words crossed out and edits made. The page sits on a surface with a red and white checkered pattern visible at the edge.

A group of smiling young adults walk down a paved road carrying coolers, bags, and drinks. Trees and fencing line the road, and one person in front takes a selfie while leading the group.

A handwritten letter on white lined paper with torn edges lies on a pink and white striped surface. The letter describes gratitude and experiences with a youth program, mentioning teamwork, construction, and lessons learned.

A group of people, including children and adults, are gathered at night under a decorated porch, dancing and socializing at a lively party. String lights and various items are visible around the area.

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Spotlight: Grace Hamill, VISIONS Alumni

April 29, 2026

Grace Hamill spent two weeks in the Dominican Republic with VISIONS—no phone, new friends, and an experience she calls one of the best of her life. Now she’s headed to Peru.

Animal Welfare, Environmental Integrity & What We Eat on VISIONS Programs

April 20, 2026

VISIONS is taking a careful look at the food we serve during our community service programs for high school students, and we aim to reduce our dependence on factory farm-based animal products by 75%.

Spotlight: Sufi Kreismann, 2025 VISIONS Dominican Republic Alum

December 12, 2025

A teen volunteer reflects on her life-changing summer with VISIONS in the Dominican Republic—immersing in local culture, building community, working with kids, and discovering new confidence in her future path.

Your VIA: How Teens Turn Service Into Purpose With VISIONS

November 14, 2025

VISIONS new VIA—Vision, Impact, Action—helps teens turn summer service into lasting purpose. Through reflection, real-world projects, and a tech-free environment, students gain confidence, clarity, and direction long after the program ends.