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Distrubutors from the company, Exfuze, take a “Vacation with a Purpose” with VivaKids
A group of Exfuze distributors recently embarked on a trip to the Dominican Republic. However, this was not just any ordinary vacation. The team went with a specific purpose in mind, determined to make this “vacation” one that would change their lives and perspectives forever.
This unique group of five families had one thing in common: they were all Viva Kids child sponsors. Though some had already met their sponsored children on previous trips, for others, it was their first time. “Meeting our sponsored kids was a very emotional experience,” said team member Joe Melling, describing his experience. The team spent the first full day of the trip visiting both children’s centers, playing games and doing crafts with the kids.
Day two seemed to be a favorite amongst the team as well. Viva Kids recently finished building a brand new house for an impoverished single mother, Consuelo, and her five children. The Exfuze team had the unique privilege of meeting Consuelo’s beautiful family and putting the finishing touches on her house by painting the outside of it.
But the team didn’t stop there. A few hours later, they returned and surprised Consuelo with a truckload full of new appliances and furniture, such as a refrigerator, stove, washing machine and dining room table. “I loved being involved with changing people’s lives by presenting them with a new house and furnishings,” said team member Luther Wilson.
To top off their week, the team took their sponsored children and families to the National Aquarium. Located on the beautiful coastline of the Dominican Republic, the group spent the morning at the aquarium and the afternoon picnicking at a nearby park. This was an exciting privilege for the children, many coming from dire poverty. It also gave the team one-on-one time with their sponsored child and the opportunity to build relationships. “There is no vacation that is as awesome as coming to the Dominican Republic and spending time with the children and families here,” said team member Bridgett.
This “vacation with a purpose” proved to be an experience of a lifetime, according to Exfuze team members. “These kids have so little, yet share everything. I left a piece of my heart with a little child in the Dominican. I have to come back and see her,” commented team member Lyhea Wilson.
With plans to build on this model of a “vacation with a purpose,” Exfuze already has another trip in the works. “I desire for Viva Kids to be a central component to our business,” says Rick Cotton, founder of Exfuze. Giving 1% of their total gross income to Viva Kids, Exfuze continues to contribute towards the goal of getting every child sponsored.