AYUDA 2026 Campo Amigo Program

As some of you may know, I have been attending the Campo Amigo Program in the Dominican Republic with AYUDA since the summer of 2023. AYUDA stands for American Youth Understanding Diabetes Abroad and focuses on using an innovative peer-leadership model through which international volunteers serve to empower local youth living with diabetes to live happier and healthier lives with their condition. AYUDA volunteers work with a local partner organization, Aprendiendo a Vivir, in the D.R. to collaborate in planning and implementing educational initiatives, diabetes outreach projects, and local capacity building programs with the goal of motivating and supporting people of all ages with diabetes as well as their families. This program first and foremost works to empower young kids with Type I Diabetes and foster excitement, pride, and a sense that they can achieve anything while living with diabetes.

Over the years, this program has grown incredibly close to my heart, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to return next summer as a member of the leadership team (Volunteer Mentor in Training). The experiences I have had through Campo Amigo over the past three years have genuinely changed me. Beyond teaching kids about diabetes management, this program creates a space where children, who can often feel isolated in their condition, find a community that shows them they are capable of the same things that everyone else is. Watching campers gain confidence, build friendships, and realize diabetes does not define or limit who they can become has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life, and is what keeps me coming back every single year. While many of you may not have had the opportunity to witness Campo Amigo firsthand, I hope you can understand how deeply impactful this program is for the children, families, and volunteers involved. 

It is difficult to fully convey just how important each and every single donation is. AYUDA is a grassroots organization, meaning Campo Amigo exists entirely because of the generosity and support of others. The funds raised by volunteers directly make it possible for hundreds of children and families in Santo Domingo to attend camp. Receive education and support, and experience a sense of community that can often be life-changing. Your support makes all of those possible. I would be incredibly grateful if you would consider donating to AYUDA and support the mission. No contribution is too small, and every donation makes a real lasting difference in the lives of every family we interact with.