FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
With what group/organization are you associated?
The Village Mountain Mission Project is a non-denominational service project that grew out of the desire from a number of people in the Boy Scouts of America to be able to provide a high adventure opportunity for youth that is more than just having fun. This project provides a 3-pronged benefit: fun and high adventure, a fantastic service project to the very needy in the Third World, and offers a life-changing opportunity for all participants.
Can a church youth group and adult groups participate?
The project is tailored for youth groups, to include such groups as Boys Scouts, Venturers, Girl Scouts, American Heritage Girls, church youth groups, etc. We have a minimum age requirement of 13. For our high adventure groups, we prefer group sizes to be 8 to 18. Adult groups can participate in a full or modified program.
Will this be offered in future years?
We expect this project to continue for MANY years. We have an active board of directors; we contine to explore ways to improve the project.
Do I need a passport?
All participants will need a passport. Youth participants under age 18 will also need a parent permission slip signed by both parents and notarized, even if one parent is participating.
Do I/we have to: hike, ride a horse, sleep in a hammock?
For the time being, our living arrangements are primitive. If desired, we can arrange housing in a local hotel at extra cost, if a group does not wish to use our camping facilities. We have opportunities to ride horses, visit several scenic areas, climb a waterfall, etc. However these are schedule options that can be changed or deleted, if desired. Work details with the program director.
How safe is it there?
According to the United Nations Study of Crime (1998-2000), the Dominican is not in the top 62 countries in high levels of crime. Countries that are in the top 62 include: Mexico, the United States, Canada, and Switzerland and we seldom are concerned about visiting those areas. In all areas, one needs to be vigilant to protect oneself. The project has developed a number of security measures to ensure safety and security of our participants.
What about drinking water?
Most drinking water for the locals is contaminated. But our project purchases sealed, bottled water for use by our participants. This cost is included in your fees.
What temperature should we expect?
Temperatures stay constant in the 80’s and low 90’s. It does cool off in the evening so you might need a light blanket at night. Sea breezes during the day and land breezes at night help keep it comfortable.
Are there wild animals we need to worry about?
About the only wild animals are a few snakes, spiders, and lots of lizards.
What construction skills do we need?
Basic construction skills of working with wood and concrete are a major help. But we will train everyone on-site in the skills that are needed.
Can we talk to previous groups/leaders/youth?
Yes! A number of adults that have participated in previous years have agreed to discuss their insight on the project with anyone. Contact the program director to get information on how to contact them.
What are the medical facilities/provisions?
There is a free clinic with 24-hour service within a 5-minute walk of our base camp.
Can families attend?
Yes. However, we do not recommend this trip for anyone under age 13.
Updated March 7, 2007