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Remembering Ben McKillican

We say goodbye with deep gratitude to Ben McKillican, a long-time Rayjon friend, trip leader, and dedicated volunteer. Since his first trip in 1993, Ben was committed to building strong relationships with partners and communities in the Dominican Republic, leading numerous awareness trips and inspiring hundreds of participants to engage in humanitarian and social justice work.

In Canada, Ben and his wife Dianne supported Rayjon in many behind-the-scenes roles, helping to guide projects and strengthen our community. His leadership, compassion, and steady presence made a lasting impact on Rayjon and our partners abroad.

Learn more about Ben’s life and legacy:
https://rayjon.org/with-deep-gratitude-we-say-goodbye-to-ben/

Ben introduced numerous Canadians to the projects happening in the Dominican Republic and was a key driver of our partnership in the community of Consuelo. In his spirit of connection and solidarity, we wanted to share a brief update from the DR.

PLADESCULBA is much more than a preschool. It is a safe and supportive space for the approximately 50 children who attend each day. Many face significant challenges at home, including precarious documentation situations and limited family opportunities. The centre provides stability, protection, and consistency, offering children a place where they can learn, play, and simply be children, guided by dedicated and compassionate teachers.

Learning extends beyond the classroom. The children participate in educational field trips and celebrations of important national days that are thoughtfully integrated into their lessons. Here they are celebrating Duarte Day, connecting history, culture, and community in meaningful ways.

The centre also serves as a vital community hub. In the afternoons and on weekends, it hosts community classes and gatherings that strengthen relationships and create shared space. On International Women’s Day (March 8), the team held a celebration and community circle to honour the strength of women and to bring the community together in reflection and solidarity.

Through these programs, PLADESCULBA continues to create safety, opportunity, and lasting community impact for children, families, and the wider neighbourhood.
 
Upcoming Events and Ways to get involved
 

Culture & Cuisine is Back with Sun and Sazón - April 26
Enjoy a delicious Dominican brunch, featuring the unforgettable tres golpes — a traditional Dominican breakfast of fried cheese, eggs, mangú (mashed plantains), and salami. If you’ve tried it before, you know it’s a taste you won’t forget!
We’ll also be serving Canadian favourites to accompany the meal, offering something for everyone.
Experience the full Dominican vibe with music, fun activities, the chance to learn how to play dominoes, and even try a few steps of merengue 💃

All funds raised will support Rayjon’s programs in Haiti and the Dominican Republic.

To welcome as many guests as possible, we’re offering two ticket times:
10:00–11:30 AM OR 11:30 AM–1:00 PM
@ the Sarnia-Lambton Francophone Community Centre
Learn More
Local to Global Committee Meeting - March 19

Rayjon’s Local to Global Community Engagement & Volunteer Committee meets monthly to connect our international work with our local community.

This committee will help bring the values behind Rayjon’s programs in Haiti and the Dominican Republic into conversation here at home, exploring global citizenship, shared responsibility, and how local action can contribute to meaningful global change. Through outreach, events, and volunteer engagement, members will help strengthen the bridge between our community and our partners abroad.

If you’re interested in global justice, community engagement, and turning ideas into action, we invite you to join us and learn more.
Learn More
 
Looking for Writers
As we mark our 40th anniversary, we’re looking for supporters to share their favourite memories with us! Whether in writing or a short video, we’d love to hear your stories!

Reach out to Allison (akingston@rayjon.org) for more details on how to get involved.
Get involved
 
PO Box 2482 Sarnia, ON  N7T 7T1
(519) 381-5929
info@rayjon.org