Dominican Republic

As some may know, I recently decided to leave my job.  Though voluntarily relinquishing a position in the face of the worst economic crisis in decades may not seem to be a wise decision, I have been blessed with an opportunity to join a medical mission team traveling to the Dominican Republic at the end of January.  This specific team includes a number of dentists, oral surgeons, and dental hygienists who will be offering their services in and around the capital city of Santo Domingo.  I will obviously assist in non-medical capacities, and will also work to serve the families before and after their treatment.  This will be my first time leaving the United States.  This will also be my first time serving in the midst of such pervasive poverty.  What excites me most, besides the opportunity to tangibly serve those in need, is the chance to remove the focus of my life from myself and direct it to other people.

Here is the dilemma - I need to raise $1300-1500.  Because I am joining the team so late, I must expedite the fund raising process.  I am unsure of who, or how many, actually reads this blog, but I made the decision to communicate my need for financial support from this platform.  I will also be sending out support letters.  This trip is part of the efforts of Vision Trust, a non-profit organization, thus all donations are tax deductible.  If you are interested in supporting this trip, please email me at joelrthomason@gmail.com - I will provide you with further information.  I'll even do this - if you support me, I'll send you a limited edition photograph made on my trip!  You can't beat that!!!

This will be the one and only time I make this ask from the platform of the blog.  I'll stick to music and literature and other fun things.  However, you can expect lots of cool pictures upon my return.  Thanks for reading!  

- Joel