A Vision Takes Shape
Dove's original vision was established.
Our story
A Story Still Unfolding
From a vision that began in 2002 to a growing community of education, opportunity and connection in Puerto Plata, discover the moments that have shaped Dove Youth Development.
Explore our journey
From the Dove archive · Puerto Plata
The journey so far
From a Vision to a Community
A compact view of the moments that carried Dove from an early vision to a growing future.
01 / 04
2002–2009
The Beginning
Dove's original vision took shape before there was a Youth Development Center. Connections between people in the United States and the Dominican Republic grew through service, travel and a deepening commitment to Puerto Plata.
First Youth Group from the United States
The first youth group from the United States joined the story in the Dominican Republic.
U.S. Nonprofit Recognition
Dove Missions obtained U.S. 501(c)(3) nonprofit status.
Building Connections
Ongoing service trips connected people with communities along the North Coast of the Dominican Republic.
A Commitment to Puerto Plata
Dove's founder moved to the Dominican Republic, deepening the commitment to Puerto Plata.
The First Youth Development Center
The first Youth Development Center opened in rented space. The original group of 15 boys belongs to this early center period.
02 / 04
2010–2016
Putting Down Roots
Dove's work became more firmly rooted in the community. Incorporation, land purchased for the Center and a new Youth Development Center built a foundation for the years ahead.
Incorporated in the Dominican Republic
Dove Missions was incorporated as a foundation in the Dominican Republic.
Purchased Land for the Center
Land was purchased for a permanent Youth Development Center.
New Youth Development Center Built
A new Youth Development Center was built, creating a permanent home for the work.
03 / 04
2017–2021
Growth & Community
Dove grew into a wider community hub, extending its programs and staff while caring for the garden and remaining a vital resource during times of crisis.
Significant Growth and Community Hub
Expanded programs, staff and the garden while becoming a vital resource for the community during times of crisis.
04 / 04
2022–2026
The Next Chapter
As students prepared for adulthood, Dove continued building pathways toward skills, work and greater independence. The next chapter is still being developed with the community.
Vocational Training Center Launch
The Vocational Training Center launched, opening a new chapter in skills development and preparation for working life.
Growing Opportunities through Vocational Education and Job Preparation
The center continued developing opportunities through vocational education and job preparation.
Established Job Readiness Program
Dove established a Job Readiness Program.
Lifestyles Holidays Vacation Club Partnership
The relationship with Lifestyles Holidays Vacation Club developed and was strengthened over time.
Rooftop Learning Garden Reimagined
The rooftop learning garden was revitalized as part of Dove's continuing work to care for spaces for learning and connection.
Learning for the next step
- English as a Second Language
- Computer Skills
- Cosmetology
- Job Readiness
Dove today
The Story Is Still Being Written
Education, skills development and vocational training are part of the same commitment: walking alongside young people as they discover what comes next. Relationships and community connect Dove's history to the opportunities still ahead.
Be part of what comes next
Our past built the foundation. Help shape what comes next.
Continue the story with the children and young people of Puerto Plata.