Accountability
We recognize that choices have consequences. We help young people take responsibility without being permanently defined by their worst chapter.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
We cannot always change where a young person comes from. But we can decide who will show up from here forward.
THE REALITY
The Reality Behind SIGUE
63.5%
of children ages 1–14 in the Dominican Republic had experienced violent discipline.
24.7%
of young people ages 15–24 in the Dominican Republic were not in employment, education, or training in 2025.
20.1%
of adolescents ages 15–17 in the Dominican Republic lived with neither biological parent in the household in 2019.
16.59%
of young people ages 14–24 in the Dominican Republic were neither studying nor working in the first quarter of 2026.
Behind every behavior, there is a story.
A young person’s future is shaped by more than one circumstance. Stability, caring relationships, safety, education, community, and the presence of trustworthy adults can all make a difference. When several of these supports are missing at once, vulnerability can grow.
OUR COMMITMENT
Accountability without abandonment.
We recognize that choices have consequences. We help young people take responsibility without being permanently defined by their worst moment.
Presence and mentorship
Many young people need trustworthy adults who remain present. Mentorship, guidance, and consistent support can help change the course of a life.
Opportunity and future
Hope grows when real pathways exist: education, discipline, emotional support, and opportunities to develop purpose and vision.
OUR VISION
Beyond a single intervention.
Education
Learning, academic preparation, and educational opportunities.
Skills & Vocational Development
Life skills and exploration of technical and vocational pathways.
Mentorship & Relationships
Guidance and consistent relationships with trusted adults.
Personal Development
Responsibility, character, emotional well-being, and purpose.
Family & Community
Family connections and community support networks.
Opportunity & Continuity
Preparation and support for next steps, inside and beyond the center.
SIGUE IN ACTION
Santiago: Long Before We Arrived
For years, some of us had felt God placing a desire on our hearts to visit and encourage people in detention. When a friend visited and shared what she had witnessed and the needs facing these young people, that desire became a decision: to reach out and serve.
We contacted the leaders of the Santiago youth center, listened, learned, and completed the required steps for our visit. As the day approached, we prayed for the young people, invited friends and fellow believers to write personal Letters of Hope, and prepared practical support. Even more letters arrived than we had requested.
On October 8, 2026, the day we had been waiting for finally arrived.
We traveled from the United States with letters, supplies, and an even greater desire: to meet the young people we had prayed for so often. In Santiago, we had the opportunity to listen, connect, share activities, and offer words of faith, encouragement, and hope. Every letter and act of support carried the love of people who joined us from afar.
We also witnessed the dedication of the staff who work with these young people every day. We returned grateful for their commitment and even more determined to continue walking alongside them. Because one visit can be a beginning, but meaningful continuity requires presence, relationships, and commitment.
WHAT COMES NEXT
From Encounter to Lasting Support
We hope to continue learning from the center's team and explore education, skills training, and mentorship opportunities that help young people prepare for their future. Every step will be developed in coordination with the authorities and subject to the necessary approvals.
AN INVITATION THAT CONTINUES
Letters of Hope
The letters we brought to Santiago reminded us that we can show up for someone even from a distance. We want this simple act of love to continue. You can write a message of faith, encouragement, and hope to remind a young person that their story is still being written and their future matters.
Write Your Letter of Hope
Write a message of faith, encouragement, and hope. Focus on their worth and future, not their past. Avoid questions about their legal situation, sharing contact information, or promising personal assistance. You can submit your letter anytime. We will share it when opportunities and appropriate permissions allow.
BE PART OF WHAT COMES NEXT
Take your place.
Hope grows when we choose to show up. You can write, serve, pray, share our story, or partner with SIGUE. There is a place for you.