FAQ

Here are some questions other parents have asked!  Click a question to go directly to the answer. 

What about extra spending money?

Cash will be collected at orientation to be exchanged to local currency. The following times are when students might want to have some spending money:

• Trip to La Sirena (Think giant Walmart)

• Beach day (extra treats or souvenirs)

• TIME Missions shirts or swag

• Airport snacks (students will be given $40 in cash on the way there to cover two airport meals and some snacks, and $20 coming home for one airport meal and snacks)

Cash can be exchanged back at the end of the trip. 

$50-$100 in cash should be sufficient depending on your child. If they are purchasing specific souvenirs as thank you's they might need extra.

Will students need to keep track of their passport for the duration of the trip?

Students will be responsible for their passport during travel. Once at the TIME center they will be collected and kept in a safe until we leave. 

What about medications?

Similar to any THRIVE retreat, once we get to the DR we will collect prescription medications and make sure it is administered on schedule. Please notify Caleb of any special notes or instructions before the trip. 

What about food allergies?

The TIME Center has groups from around the world all year round and will make sure your student doesn't go hungry. Please notify Caleb in advance so we can give their kitchen a heads up on any special dietary needs.

How are you going to keep track of all these teenagers in the airport, and in the DR?

We will be using the buddy system as well as every student being assigned a leader who will keep tabs on them any time we get on a plane, leave on a bus, go to the store, or play on the beach.

What about safety concerns?

Here are a few things to keep in mind to help ease any safety concerns you have:

• The TIME Center is a walled and gated compound. At no time are students allowed to be outside of the compound without direct supervision or guidance from a TIME Missions staff person.

• The missionaries are Dominican! They know their city, culture, and are highly invested in keeping those under their watch safe. 

Is it safe to drink the water?

Students will be briefed on this during orientation. TIME supplies safe drinking water to fill their water bottles and to use for brushing teeth. We will avoid drinking any water straight from the tap

Is it true you can't flush any toilet paper?

It's true! The plumbing system cannot handle any toilet paper, it is thrown in the trash instead.

Can I call or text my student to check up on them through the week?

We understand you will miss your child and may be anxious to have them back home safe with you, but just like any THRIVE retreat we highly value the benefit of disconnecting from our daily routine and making ourselves fully present to what God is doing. We will post updates through the week.

Do we need to buy power adapters for phone or watch chargers?

No, the TIME Center outlets will work just like the ones here at home.

How will you manage phone use?

Phones will be allowed for travel and for taking pictures. Though leaders will be taking plenty of pictures. We will encourage students to leave their phones packed away in their bag as much as possible during the week. If students want to give their phone to a leader for safe keeping or to help break the habit of checking it ever 30 seconds, that is an option as well. 

Can I drop off/pick up my child directly from the airpot?

You are welcome to do so! With the size of our team, additional transportation options are helpful. Please let Caleb know if you plan to do so or if you are able to drive others as well.