No matter how many skype meetings, phone calls, emails, and fb messages you exchange, nothing gives you more clarity than a face-to-face meeting.
My biggest task for the year is to direct the construction of the ministry's new multipurpose center across the park from the old club. A month ago, the only thing I knew about this undertaking was that the building will be two stories, the bottom level serving as a classroom and office space, while the second level serves as a large, open worship space. I also knew that a large group from Canada would be building a majority of the structure in February. That was the extent of my understanding, and my confidence was quite shaky.
It wasn't until I met my team that things started to become more clear. Meet the in-country team:
Lou (engineer)- Lou's a Vietnam vet who has lived in Peurto Plata for 27 years and has built too many buildings too count. He sports a pony tail and a great double braided beard. He has all the local connections and building knowledge, and can get any job done cheap and fast. He comes off as a hard-ass, but underneath you will find an articulate, intelligent man who really wants to help. His ultimate goal is to start a vocational training program for the kids at the club. He still hasn't warmed up to the idea of volunteers building the club, but we're working on it.
Paola (architect)- Paola is a pleasant Italian woman who has done architecture all over the world. She loves all sorts of art, and has a particular interest in eco-friendly building practices. Since Paola is not licensed as an architect in the DR, she works under Johanna, a Dominican architect. They are diligent, particular, and are very concerned with getting things done right. They envision a center that stands out in the community as an artistic expression of the kids and their pursuit of environmental awareness. Paola hopes to teach an art class at the club.
I had met with both of them individually before planning on getting the group together. The concern leading up to our first team meeting was that they would butt heads and cause tension right off the bat. My vision for the center included a mixture of both Lou's and Paola's, so I was hoping to bridge the gaps.
No drama to report. Our meeting was perfect. Every time there was an agreement among us, I would breath a big sigh of relief. We all brought very different skills and insights into the meeting, but in the end we agreed on some very key points:
1. We love Italian food
2. Its all about the kids
3. We have a great opportunity to involve the community
4. The more eco-friendly concepts we incorporate, the better
5. This process is going to be fun and creative
6. Its all about the kids
Now that we've got that figured out, let's grab a shovel and get dirty.
peace and watermelon,
David
