As you probably know, I created the first version of Cook'n 22 years ago and founded DVO Enterprises in my college apartment back in 1992.
But, what you may not know is that, in 1989, I served a two-year mission for my church. When I was 19 years old, I was called to serve the people in the Dominican Republic! I didn't even know where in the world that was. I had to find it on a map!
Apparently, they speak Spanish there. So, I studied hard 12 hours per day everyday for two months to learn the language. I even practiced with imaginary people that I drew on the chalkboard!
But nothing could prepare me for the shock that I experienced when I arrived. The houses were short! I felt like a giant!
The streets and walk ways were very narrow!
And poverty was everywhere! I had never experienced anything like this before.
After sharing the gospel and serving the people there every day from morning to night for two years, I really grew to love them.
So, 17 years later (10 years ago) I went back!
This time, I came with my wife, Kathy, and our 5 kids!
We danced and had fun.
We also brought 14 boxes (a total of 700 pounds!) of clothes, school supplies, toys, hygiene kits, and other necessities.
We drove around to the less populated areas (so we wouldn't get mobbed!) and we gave gifts to the children there.
The children were SO surprised and excited!
The smiles were huge!
They were so grateful too!
This had to be the first doll this little girl has ever owned! There's nothing quite like the feeling of giving and helping others...especially people in such desperate circumstances.
This boy picked the Barbie Doll car and he couldn't have been happier! I thought that was pretty funny.
Well, the Oaks family is going BACK to the Dominican Republic next month and this time...we're going to build a library! But, we need your help!
My friend, Loiuse Zobell, from the Dominican Starfish Foundation asked if we would help. Check out the slideshow below for details.
This is a great cause. The thing I like most about this Library project is that it will help educate the people. As the old adage goes, "Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime." Also, 100% of the money goes to the cause.
My family and I are flying to the Dominican Republic for two weeks in March to do all we can to help. Please help Louise if you can. Even if everyone contributes only $5, that will really add up. Please make a donation if you can and forward this to a friend to spread the word about this good cause.
