Oct. 5, 2007

By Sarah Bradford, Clarke College Sports Information Student Assistant

DUBUQUE, Iowa - Clarke College senior tennis standout Mirelis Rivera spent time this past summer doing more than just working on her serve and backhand.

The native of Bayamon, Puerto Rico volunteered at an orphanage for a week-and-a-half in Salcedo, Dominican Republic. The orphanage, Hogar Divino Niño Jesus, houses young girls who have been abandoned, abused and found in the streets.

Rivera and two of her friends helped by giving the girls school supplies, clothes, medicine and toiletries.

"This was something I've wanted to do for years," Rivera said. "Helping other people doesn't only make me feel better, but it is something I must do as a person. We are all the instruments of help for others in need."

Most of the items donated came from the Clarke community through Campus Ministry, but other supplies like school uniforms and sports equipment came from her own pocket. She spent most of her time taking care of the ill, painting the orphanage and lecturing the girls on an optimistic outlook on life.

"Toward the end of the week the girls thought I was part of their family," she said. "One of the girls called me 'mommy' because I stayed in the hospital with her for three days, so we grew a strong bond."

Of the activities Rivera did with the girls, she said the most effective were the campfires and arts and crafts because of the hands on involvement. This is where she really got to know the girls and felt like she made the biggest impact.

"Seeing the girls smile made me the happiest," said Rivera. "I don't feel like I was an example for them, but rather a sign of hope."

Even though Rivera is back in Iowa, she is still working on helping those in the Dominican Republic. With help from Kate Zanger, Clarke College vice president for student life and enrollment management, she is trying to raise enough money for a mini-van to transport the girls to and from school. Right now they do not have efficient transportation.

"We all know there are needs for volunteers in our country, community and neighborhood," Rivera said. "It is the best feeling to make a difference and to be in communion with everyone."