Dominican Republic – “Boys and Girls with Don Bosco”: Celebrating 40 Years of transformation and hope

12 December 2024

(ANS - Santo Domingo) - Muchachos y Muchachas con Don Bosco (“Boys and Girls with Don Bosco”), a Salesian organisation committed to the integral formation of Dominican children, is celebrating its 40th anniversary, marking four decades of uninterrupted service, commitment and transformation for its beneficiaries. This historic event coincides with the receipt of the prestigious Dr. Julio A. Brache Arzeno Award for Sustainability 2024, awarded by the Rica Foundation in the category of Education.

Since its foundation in 1985 under the name “Canillitas con Don Bosco”, this institution, within the framework of the work carried out by the Salesian Province of the Antilles, has worked tirelessly to offer opportunities to the most vulnerable children in Santo Domingo. Through a comprehensive model based on four pillars - search, reception, socialisation and accompaniment - they have become a beacon of hope and development for thousands of children.

Father Ysidro José Ramírez, Salesian Youth Ministry Delegate for the Antilles and Director of the Boys and Girls with Don Bosco Network, reflects on the impact of the organisation: “Our mission is not to replace school, but to recover the joy of childhood. Seeing children stop being adults at the wrong time and enjoy their childhood is our greatest reward.”

Over these 40 years, Muchachos y Muchachas con Don Bosco has provided a safe and formative space for its beneficiaries to access education, medical care, food and an environment that promotes their integral development. This anniversary not only celebrates what has been achieved, but also encourages us to continue sowing a sustainable future based on education as a driving force for change.

The commemoration of the journey towards this 40th anniversary began with an emotional Eucharist of thanksgiving on Monday 9 December 2024, presided over by Father José Pastor Ramírez, Provincial of the Antilles, and accompanied by Salesian priests, benefactors, collaborators and volunteers who have been fundamental pillars in this work. Throughout the year, events and activities will be held to highlight this story of overcoming and hope.

The Salesian Province of the Antilles and the Boys and Girls with Don Bosco invite the whole of society to join in this celebration and to continue supporting their work, reaffirming that together we can transform lives and build a better future for the generations to come, following Don Bosco's dream.

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ANS - “Agenzia iNfo Salesiana” is a on-line almost daily publication, the communication agency of the Salesian Congregation enrolled in the Press Register of the Tibunal of Rome as n 153/2007.

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