Share Skills, Empower Communities: Volunteering with Community Connection International in the Dominican Republic
In our recent post, A former local’s guide to Antigua, Guatemala, we explored my return to Antigua after seven years away. A key theme was the growth and maturity of both the town and its business owners, including myself.
This evolution extends to our Guatemala crew—friends who lived, worked, and bonded in Antigua since 2003. Nearly all have pursued careers making a positive global impact: from teachers and Spanish-speaking therapists to European criminal justice investigators and nurses volunteering 
in Mexico. Among our most vibrant friends, Angela Bennett, recently founded Community Connection International (CCI), an NGO in the Dominican Republic. After years in the Peace Corps and extensive experience living, working, and traveling in Latin America, Angie channeled her expertise into practical aid for those in need.
This interview shares Angie's story, the challenges and rewards of launching an NGO, implementing her innovative Service for Aid model, volunteer opportunities, and budget-friendly tips for exploring off-the-beaten-path Dominican Republic.
Globetrottergirls: Congratulations on founding Community Connection International! What is the main goal?
Angela Bennett: CCI connects humanity to its potential by bridging individual worlds with greater communities. We establish community centers in struggling areas for ‘skill shares,’ where locals and international volunteers exchange skills to drive development. Our programming follows the Service for Aid model: volunteers share knowledge, and locals reciprocate with a skill. Our pilot center opens this month in Consuelo, Dominican Republic. 
Can you share your background and what led to CCI?
I've always loved people, travel, and cultures. Raised in Prescott, Arizona, I now live in Consuelo, Dominican Republic, where I served in the Peace Corps (2004-2006). I hold a Master’s in International Studies with a Humanitarian Assistance Certificate from the Josef Korbel School, plus BAs in International Studies and Spanish.
CCI has been a 10-year dream. My Master’s thesis refined it into a plan for effective humanitarian aid, born from observing limited opportunities for the impoverished.
Tell us more about Service for Aid and why you chose it.
Across Peace Corps service, travels, and studies, I saw donor-recipient dependency. 
No models broke this, so I created Service for Aid. It seeks donations but requires recipients to earn them via community service and self-improvement. Participants gain service-credits for incentives from local businesses, fostering reciprocity. This addresses short-term needs while building long-term skills, independence, and reduced aid dependency.
Why the Dominican Republic first?
Two reasons: My Peace Corps service here, shared with CCI teammate Alexis Loerke, built strong community ties essential for success. 
Consuelo faces over 90% unemployment post-sugar mill closure. They need Service for Aid's immediate incentives and sustainable impacts. Decades of aid have created dependency; now, skills for new markets are key.
Challenges of starting an NGO and how you overcame them?
Wearing hats like founder, director, fundraiser, and more is tough. Grateful for volunteers like Rachel Lohrman, who designed our website (www.cciinfo.org), and family support. Consuelo's residents embrace me like family; their optimism amid hardship inspires me.
Volunteering opportunities with CCI?
Everyone can join! Share skills—even basics like math or health education. 
Passion matters; locals reciprocate. Options: 1+ months, day trips, or Skype shares. Donate at www.cciinfo.org if travel isn't possible.
Budget tips for off-the-beaten-path Dominican Republic?
The DR shines beyond resorts. Dominicans are the friendliest I've met. Use guaguas (buses) or moto-conchos (moto-taxis).
East: San Pedro de Macorís, Juan Dolio, La Romana, Bayahibe, Higüey, Bavaro, Punta Cana. Prefer quieter Juan Dolio/Bayahibe beaches; opt for guesthouses to explore. 
Southwest: Stunning Bahía de las Águilas; coastal hotels en route. Capture Paraiso views.
North (El Cibao): Puerto Plata, Sosúa, Cabarete (backpacker haven). Visit 27 Waterfalls near Imbert—guided climbs and jumps.
Cities: Santo Domingo's Colonial Zone (El Conde pedestrian street) and Santiago offer culture amid urban hustle.
Visit CCI in Consuelo! Chat at a colmado—share liter beers and dominoes to connect.
How to get involved?
www.cciinfo.org for info/donations; CCI Blog, Facebook. Email volunteering/donations/travel: [email protected] Hope to see Globetrottergirls soon!
