Bridges to Community is a nonprofit dedicated to creating sustainable change in vulnerable communities in the Dominican Republic. For more than 30 years, we’ve worked side-by-side with local leaders and volunteers to transform lives through housing, health, education, and economic development.
At Bridges to Community, we have a few core beliefs: everyone deserves to live in dignity and every person has strength within them. But we know that circumstances can hold people back from living a life of opportunity. It might be that their home isn’t safe for their family, or that their community doesn’t have access to potable water. With the help of donors like you, we can do more for the communities we serve.
We start by asking communities what they need. Housing? Sanitation? Education? Economic support? They guide the process — we simply join the work.
Our volunteer trips spark transformation on both sides. You help build homes and community projects, and in return, you gain a deeper understanding of the world (plus unforgettable memories and maybe a few sore muscles — the good kind).
We don’t drop in and leave. We stay, we listen, and we build relationships that continue for years, ensuring our projects remain strong long after the last brick is laid.
MEET OUR
MEET OUR
Executive Director
Paula joined the Bridges to Community family in 2012 after completing 3 years of Peace Corps service in Nicaragua. Beginning as an International Volunteer Coordinator, Paula quickly became the Program Director of the Bridges Nicaragua office, and later the Director of Operations for the Nicaragua and Dominican Republic offices. In November 2022, she was named Executive Director. Paula most enjoys working with and empowering community leadership to support their goals for a better future through education, health and economic development. She is also honored to be a liasion for North American volunteers who generously give their time and financial resources to support the dreams of Bridges community partners.
Paula graduated from the College of William and Mary with BA in Hispanic Studies and Environmental Studies. In 2013, she completed the Nonprofit Management Certification program at Georgetown University.