Throughout the world, citizens attend mission trips to volunteer their time to change the lives of others. West Brunswick’s very own Assistant Principal, Justin Hayes, did that by traveling to the Dominican Republic to help give needy children and families a future.

Hayes traveled to Santo Domingo with a group of 25 hard-working locals who set out to do the work they were anxiously awaiting. Over the course of one week in late July, he was able to complete a chapel, host a basketball camp and assist with vacation bible school with the help of the missionaries his team collaborated with.

“The youth minister from First Baptist Church four years ago talked me into going,” Hayes said. “He has a real good friendship with one of the main missionaries there, and the community we were in is where that main missionary works; the community of Hatillo”.

The projects Hayes helped complete while there will undoubtedly benefit these young children and will help them to grow and prosper. Although the work was tiresome, the team worked for nine days straight to help build a future from the ground and bring hope to the surrounding area.

“They are very friendly, they’re willing to help out when needed, their work ethic is unlike most work ethic I see in the United States, and they are appreciative and grateful” said Hayes.

It’s no surprise to learn about the new experiences that Hayes has encountered this year when it comes to helping better the lives of others as he is commonly seen around school doing just that for the students of West Brunswick.

“In my profession, it’s all about helping people, watching people grow to become young adults and more productive members of society,” said Hayes.

While completing one mission trip will help to better the lives of many, Hayes says that he plans to continue these trips for many years to come, providing many years of support for these families. It is important to remember that no matter how far away you go to help others, you will always be helping the souls close to you as well.

“A lot of people see me as an authority figure, but it’s the same concept.” Hayes said. “I wouldn’t do it if I didn’t like kids or love kids, and I wouldn’t do that if I didn’t love to help others”.