Salinas Family & Friends: May 23-30, 2026
Meet Alberto Araujo
Alberto Araujo is 44 years old and has been living in the La Roma sector of El Yaque for approximately 10 years. He lives with his mother and his four children, ages 14, 13, 10, and 7.
Alberto works mainly in agriculture, spending his days in the fields (conuco) and taking on any additional work he can find to support his family. His children attend school while he focuses on providing for their daily needs.
Currently, the family lives in very limited conditions. Their home consists of two small wooden rooms, without a proper kitchen or adequate living space. The lack of space makes daily life uncomfortable, especially when it comes to sleeping arrangements for the entire family.
Despite these challenges, Alberto remains hopeful and focused on improving his family’s situation.
A new home would bring a meaningful transformation, providing space, comfort, and dignity. For Alberto and his family, it would mean finally having a safe and adequate place to live, something they truly need.
Meet your Team Leaders
Euclides Montero
Euclides Montero Monthero is a university student, translator, and entrepreneur. He was born in Hondo Valle of the Elías Piñas province near the Haitian border on September 1, 1989.
He is the 4th of nine siblings and is now a husband and father himself, a proud dad of three sons. Euclides' hobbies and activities also include sports, farming, and producing coffee.
Emanuel Suero
Emanuel Suero Escalante is from the city of San Juan de la Maguana. He brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to his role at BTC, having worked with cultural exchange and medical brigades of North American volunteer groups since 2018 before joining the Bridges’ team in January 2023.
Emanuel recently graduated with a degree in biology and chemistry and has participated in US-DR cultural exchange program on three separate occasions in Wisconsin, where he worked in hospitality and customer service. Outside of work, Emanuel is an avid movie enthusiast and loves exploring new music.
About the Community
San Juan de la Maguana is located in the western region of the Dominican Republic and sits in a broad valley surrounded by mountain ranges. Known as the country’s agricultural heartland, approximately 85% of the province’s land is dedicated to farming, particularly beans, rice, and corn. The region’s fertile soil and open plains make it a vital contributor to the Dominican Republic’s food supply.
The climate is generally hot and sunny, with average daytime temperatures around 85°F (29°C). Due to its elevation and surrounding mountains, evenings tend to be cooler, especially after sunset. Rainfall is seasonal, resulting in lush, green landscapes during the rainy months and drier conditions at other times of the year.
San Juan is a predominantly rural province with limited infrastructure, simpler accommodations, and fewer commercial amenities. Visitors should be prepared for basic conditions, intermittent electricity, and limited internet access.