PHOTO: A doctor and his assistant with their nervous, but smiling patient.

Esperanza International prides ourselves on many things—we pride ourselves on the exemplary service we give our 15,000+ associates, on the savings services we offer them, on the health services we offer them, on the spiritual guidance we offer them--- and we understand that all of these things play monumental roles in transforming the lives of each associate and their families in a sustained way, and on a holistic level.

PHOTO: (From left to right) Esperanza staff member; Travis Vaughan, Intern at Esperanza; Esperanza staff member.

My three months spent as an intern for Esperanza International in the Dominican Republic were incredible. As I prepare to leave this place, I am both excited to see friends, family, and return to the fast paced lifestyle that I love, but so sad to be leaving many wonderful people and friendships formed over the last several months. Microfinance had always been something that I read about and learned about from afar, but this summer I had the opportunity to see it first hand.

My time here allowed me to spend many hours in small communities speaking with young women about their dreams for the future and their hopes for their families. I got to ask tough questions, teach, but mostly listen and learn from the clients and loan officers. I got to see some of the shortcomings of microfinance and the struggles of an NPO, but mostly see the incredible way that peoples lives are being touched by a unique network of Christ-lovers that are working to serve the marginalized and oppressed as we are all called to do.