Where we work
Dominican Republic
Background
WTTW works in two very different corners of the Dominican Republic. In the rural Samaná Peninsula, school dropout rates are high and job opportunities scarce. Despite the region's enormous tourism potential, many residents live without access to technical training or decent employment, often working informally under poor and unstable conditions.
Las Galeras is part of the Samaná Peninsula, a premier Dominican tourist destination known for beaches such as Playa Frontón, La Playita and Playa Grande, and the annual whale-watching season (December–February), which draws thousands of visitors worldwide. That tourism sector represents a significant opportunity for economic development and job creation — but only if local communities have access to education, training and fair employment.
In the northwest, Monte Cristi National Park — one of the country's 27 protected areas — shelters rich terrestrial and marine biodiversity, including one of Latin America's longest coral reefs. Environmental threats have intensified in recent years: approximately 95% of waste in the Dominican Republic is still dumped in uncontrolled or open sites, with severe consequences for public health, terrestrial ecosystems and marine environments.
Our work in Dominican Republic
Villa Progreso Cultural Center
A community cultural and learning centre reopened by WTTW in Las Galeras for 47 families evicted from their homes, offering education, vocational training and childcare.
Three Walls, One Destiny
Where nature's walls meet human neglect: a call to defend our Pachamama. An environmental initiative protecting Monte Cristi National Park from landfills and illegal dumping.