What makes the DSO special?
THE NEED IS SO GREAT.
The streets of La Ureña outside the walls of the DSO.
La Ureña is a very poor community. The residents experience a poverty rate near 50%, very high unemployment—especially for women (over 30%)—inadequate housing with many families living in tin shanties, and a crumbling public education system. 45% of students in the public school system do not finish high school.
Two pre-school students play in the courtyard during recess.
THE DSO ANCHORS THE COMMUNITY.
The Dominica School and Orphanage has a 28-year track record of providing excellent education and social support for the neediest children in the La Urena community. Dominica continues to accomplish a near magical amount with the funds that we provide, and her students demonstrate the power of a safe and loving environment through their respect for the teachers and for each other. Dominica recognizes that these children not only need good teachers, but they also require nutrition, medical assistance, social services, and a supportive environment in order to escape the cycle of poverty which pervades La Urena.
Donate
All online donations are currently made through our partnership with the Columbus Foundation on their website. We accept singular donations as well as scheduled ones. If you'd like to be more involved, or you want more information on how to visit the school, please contact us either through this site or our Facebook page!
donate with checks:
Checks should be made to “The Columbus Foundation, Dominica Fund” and sent to:
The Columbus Foundation, attn. Jeff Byars
1234 E. Broad St.
Columbus, Ohio 43205
gifts of appreciated stock
Donations of appreciated stock can be arranged by calling Jeff Byars at the Columbus Foundation: (614)-251-4000