Kristine Colyar is an ELAP Program Manager and a contributor to ISA Today. Kristine works with students participating in service-learning and internship programs abroad through ELAP, ISA’s experiential learning division.

Looking for someplace warm to go over winter break? Look no further! Experiential Learning Abroad Programs (ELAP) is introducing its first “Serve Santiago” winter break group project.
Briefly escape from the dreary winter to spend nine days in perfect 80 degree weather, while serving the local Dominican community. Participants will volunteer at a Community Dining Hall and Learning Center to help maintain and beautify the center by building and painting walls, benches, tables, and playground equipment. They will also interact with the children on a daily basis by playing games, organizing arts and crafts activities, and teaching English.

The project will run from January 2 – January 10, 2013 and costs $1375. The price includes room and board with a host-family, airport reception and drop-off, on-site transportation, on-site support, international medical insurance, building supplies, cultural activities, and an excursion to 27 Charcos.

So leave your snow shovel and boots behind, grab some friends, and spend an unforgettable week making a difference and having a blast in the Dominican Republic!