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Child Development Coordinator
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Description
Internship Opportunity: Child Care Worker – Bethesda Refugio de Amor (Dominican Republic)
About Bethesda Refugio de Amor
Bethesda Refugio de Amor is a Christian childnre care home located in Santiago, Dominican Republic, dedicated to providing love, protection, and holistic development for children between the ages of 1 and 12 years old.
Our mission is to ensure that every child grows in a safe, nurturing, and faith-filled environment that supports their spiritual, emotional, physical, and academic development.
Bethesda is built on the belief that early childhood is foundational for lifelong growth. We emphasize:
- Loving care and emotional bonding
- Formation of healthy habits (nutrition, hygiene, socialization)
- Respect for each child’s individual rhythm and developmental pace
- Integration of biblical principles into daily life and learning
“And the King will answer them, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’” — Matthew 25:40
Internship Description
We are seeking interns or volunteers willing to serve for a period of 6 months to 1 year (or longer) in caring for children at our foster care home.
Location:
Santiago, Dominican Republic
Start Date:
December 1, 2025
Commitment:
6 to 12 months minimum (extensions possible)
Responsibilities
Interns will work under the supervision of local staff and caregivers to support the daily operations and care of children. Tasks may include:
- Providing day-to-day care, nurturing, and supervision of children (ages 1–12)
- Assisting with feeding, hygiene routines, playtime, and bedtime
- Helping with early Christian education, music, art, and language learning activities
- Supporting children emotionally and spiritually through prayer, stories, and discipleship moments
- Assisting in organizing group activities, outdoor play, and creative learning experiences
- Supporting staff in maintaining a clean, safe, and joyful environment
- Participating in team devotions, meetings, and community life at the home
Preferred Backgrounds
We welcome students or professionals from the following fields (but not limited to):
- Clinical Psychology or Child Development
- Early Childhood Education or Elementary Teaching
- Music Education or Worship
- Visual Arts or Creative Therapy
- Biblical Studies, Theology, or Christian Ministry
Qualifications
All applicants should demonstrate:
- A genuine love for children and a heart to serve
- A personal relationship with Jesus Christ and an active commitment to live out Christian values
- Willingness to serve with humility and teamwork in a multicultural setting
- Flexibility and emotional maturity to adapt to new environments and challenges
- Ability to communicate in Spanish
Provided by Bethesda Refugio de Amor
- Housing in a safe and comfortable shared volunteer residence
- Meals provided daily
- Local transportation within the country for ministry purposes
Volunteer’s Financial Responsibility
Interns are responsible for:
- International flights to and from the Dominican Republic
- Travel insurance and medical coverage
- Personal expenses, recreation, and souvenirs
- Any visa extensions (if applicable)
Spiritual and Personal Growth
Interns will have opportunities for:
- Personal mentorship and discipleship
- Cultural training and cross-cultural ministry experience
- Service projects in local communities and churches
- Growth in understanding God’s heart for children and nations
Location
Bethesda Refugio de Amor
Please fill out this form
Additional questions to fill out:
- Describe your relationship with God at this point in your life:
- Skills and Experience
- Do you speak Spanish fluently? ☐ Yes ☐ No
- (Conversational Spanish required for this volunteer position)
- Educational Background: ________________________________________________
- Current Occupation/Field of Study: ______________________________________
- Have you ever worked or volunteered with children before? ☐ Yes ☐ No
- If yes, please describe:
- What skills or gifts do you believe God has given you to serve at Betesda?
- (e.g., teaching, music, arts, psychology, mentoring, etc.)
- References
Please provide contact information for two references:
A. Pastoral or Spiritual Reference
Name: ___________________________________________
Phone/Email: _____________________________________
Relationship: _____________________________________
B. Personal or Professional Reference
Name: ___________________________________________
Phone/Email: _____________________________________
Relationship: _____________________________________
- Personal Reflection
- Why do you want to serve at Betesda Refugio de Amor?
- What do you hope to learn or experience through this service?
- Commitment and Conditions
By signing below, I understand and agree to the following:
- I am a committed Christian who desires to glorify God through service.
- I will demonstrate love, humility, and respect toward all children and staff.
- I am responsible for my airfare, visa, health insurance, and personal expenses.
- Betesda will provide housing, meals, and local transportation within the Dominican Republic.
- I am willing to adapt to a different culture and language for the sake of the Gospel.
- I agree to follow all rules and guidelines set by Betesda Refugio de Amor and Breath of Life International.
