Mission
Yspaniola is committed to providing inclusive, high-quality education to marginalized communities in Batey Libertad and Santo Domingo. We support individuals from diverse backgrounds through an intersectional lens, fostering leadership, academic achievement, and social empowerment. We focus on building sustainable, community-driven solutions to break cycles of poverty and inequality. By nurturing local talent and advocating for human rights, we aim to create lasting, impactful change in the communities we serve while inspiring broader global solidarity.
Challenge
The Dominican Republic is home to hundreds of bateys—isolated communities where residents of Haitian descent face extreme marginalization. These communities lack access to fundamental civil and human rights, such as education, healthcare, and citizenship. Generations of families live without the ability to vote, travel, or gain legal status, leaving them trapped in cycles of poverty and exclusion. Furthermore, thousands of Dominicans of Haitian descent living in cities also experience severe discrimination and struggle to access essential services. This systemic denial of rights exacerbates social inequality and limits opportunities for economic advancement, perpetuating generational hardship.
Pathway to Change
Since 2009, Yspaniola has been committed to providing high-quality education programs for children and youth in Batey Libertad, from pre-K through university. We focus on breaking down barriers to education for marginalized communities and empowering young people with the tools they need to succeed. As we move forward, we aim to expand these programs, adapting them to meet the unique needs of each new community we serve. Learn more about our transformative work below, and subscribe to our newsletter for updates!
