Lodging and Food
Group accommodation is at ASCALA’s main facility on the outskirts of Consuelo. The facility is a gated compound with a security guard. Rooms are generally shared by students. Adult chaperones will have their own rooms. Groups are expected to participate in the preparation and clean-up of meals. Rostro de Cristo staff and a local cook will assist as well.
Schedule
Schedules are developed with the input of group leaders and dependent on availability of speakers, partners, etc. Typically, each day will begin with a brief prayer with ASCALA Staff at 8 am. Depending on the activities planned typically days will end between 5 – 6 pm. Each day will include time for meals and short breaks. See two sample schedules here.
Travel in the DR: Many of the communities we visit are in rural areas surrounded by sugarcane fields and require travel on dirt roads in poor condition. Groups should expect travel times to average 30-45 minutes each way to these communities from ASCALA.
Safety and Security
The safety and security of our groups is a top priority. We ask groups to follow strict safety protocols during their visit. We monitor the safety and security conditions at the local, national and regional levels. We visit communities where we are known and have established trust. We contract with trusted drivers with professional licenses.
Post-Trip Integration
We encourage schools to incorporate follow-up activities. We can provide guidance and materials to help deepen understanding and faith in action.
Group Size and Participants
We believe the optimal group size is 10-12 people, including leaders/chaperones. We cannot host groups which are larger than 14 people. High school groups should have at least two adult chaperones/guides. Each group should have at least one designated leader or group coordinator who will be the primary person to interface with our staff. Our lodging facility and vehicles in-country are not ADA compliant.
Cost
The cost for a one-week program is $900 per person or a minimum of $9000 per group (based on 10 participants). Airfare is not included. This covers all in-country transportation, including to and from a local airport, food, lodging and other costs. A $2000 deposit is required to reserve a week. Special requests or additions to the schedule are generally not accommodated. But if they are, it may be at an added expense.
Invitation to Partnership and Collaboration
We value partnerships grounded by the common desire to form young people in faith, justice, and solidarity. We welcome your input: What themes or experiences are most compelling or valued by your institution? What considerations are priority? How can we support your goals before, during, or after the immersion experience? Do you have feedback from past trips we should consider?
Next Steps
Contact us: retreats@rostrodecristo.org