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Volunteers cherish rewarding experiences and memories from the Games
🇩🇴 Dominican Republic /Sports

Volunteers cherish rewarding experiences and memories from the Games

From Diario Libre · () Spanish

Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Named sources Outcome reported
  • Over 6,000 athletes from 37 countries competed in the 25th Central American and Caribbean Games, which concluded on August 8 after 16 days of competition.
  • Volunteers, including many young people and international participants from over 33 countries, played a crucial role in the event's smooth operation.
  • The games highlighted the commitment and service of Dominicans, with many volunteers expressing pride in their country's hospitality and dedication.

The 25th Central American and Caribbean Games have concluded, marking the end of a 16-day event that saw over 6,000 athletes from 37 countries and territories compete across 40 sports in 46 official venues.

When Dominicans commit to doing something, they put their whole heart into it and do it well and with joy.

— Franklin OrtegaFranklin Ortega, coordinator of the volunteer program, spoke about the commitment of Dominican volunteers.

While the athletes took center stage, the event's success was significantly bolstered by the dedication of its volunteers. These individuals, ranging from young people to older adults, selflessly offered their time to ensure the smooth running of the regional competition.

Franklin Ortega, coordinator of the volunteer program, expressed pride in the commitment shown by Dominicans. "When Dominicans commit to doing something, they put their whole heart into it and do it well and with joy," he stated. He observed participants giving their best versions and collaborating with the best intentions for a successful outcome.

I take away from these Games that Dominicans are good people, we are helpful people, we are dedicated people, who when we commit, we do it from the heart.

— Franklin OrtegaFranklin Ortega, coordinator of the volunteer program, shared his reflections on the volunteers' dedication.

The volunteer force also included a significant international contingent. Ortega noted that 206 foreign volunteers from 33 countries contributed their time and resources, covering their own travel and accommodation to be part of the experience. Venezuela led with 55 volunteers, followed by Colombia with 39, and participants also came from Peru, Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Europe, and Africa.

206 foreign volunteers representing 33 countries have come to the Dominican Republic and have donated their time, their resources, paying their own passage, paying their own lodging here in the Dominican Republic to live this experience.

— Franklin OrtegaFranklin Ortega, coordinator of the volunteer program, detailed the international participation.

For many, like Lidia Russo, who had previously competed as an athlete for the Dominican Republic in volleyball, volunteering offered a unique and fulfilling experience. She described it as a "unique experience" and expressed willingness to do it again, highlighting the camaraderie that characterized the games.

First, because this is my first time being a volunteer. In other Central American Games, I have participated as an athlete, representing the Dominican Republic in volleyball. So, that's why I tell you, for me it has been a marvelous experience.

— Lidia RussoLidia Russo, a volunteer, described her experience at the games.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Diario Libre in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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