Ronkonkoma Rotary Global Grant

Dove Youth Development, a grass roots organization formed in the community 10 years ago, is striving to make a difference by breaking this cycle of poverty. The school system in the Dominican Republic, was rated 143 out of 144 developed countries by the World Economic Forum, Competitiveness Report. It operates on a "split session" schedule, meaning children go to school for only half a day, either in the morning, or in the afternoon.

If the child and family fulfill their obligations, Dove provides food and clothing of at least $30 to each child per month, thereby allowing the child to stay in school. Dove also provides a uniform, which is required to be worn to attend the public school. Each child also gets a snack.