Who We Are
TEARS was founded by Rod and Twila Davis and is a faith-based not for profit based in La Vega, Dominican Republic. TEARS provides free elementary and high school education to children who would not otherwise have the educational opportunity, operates a water treatment plant, a Health and Wellness Center, Aquaponics Fish Farming, business training and grants, support services for parents, a soccer mentorship program, plants churches, and operates other support programs for the community.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q. What does T.E.A.R.S stand for?
A: T.E.A.R.S stands for True Evangelism Always Requires Sacrifice. It is a faith-based non-profit organization founded by Rod and Twila Davis. The organization is headquartered in La Vega, Dominican Republic.
Q. What is the mission of T.E.A.R.S?
A: To actively demonstrate God’s love by meeting the spiritual and natural needs of communities affected by the detrimental effects of extreme poverty including juvenile delinquency, lack of education, health problems, teenage pregnancy, and substance abuse issues.
Q. What services does T.E.A.R.S provide?
A: T.E.A.R.S offers a range of services, including free education, a water treatment plant, a Health and Wellness Center, Agriculture, Fish Farming, business training and grants, support services for parents, a sport mentorship program, church planting, and other community support programs.
Q. How does T.E.A.R.S support parents?
A: T.E.A.R.S provides support services for parents, recognizing the importance of involving families in the educational and developmental process. This includes counseling, workshops, and other resources to empower parents in their roles.
Q: Can you elaborate on the Fish Farming initiative?
A: T.E.A.R.S operates a Fish Farming program, which is a sustainable and integrated system. This initiative helps provide a local source of fish, promoting self-sufficiency and economic stability.
Q: Is TEARS involved in addressing health problems within communities?
A: Yes, TEARS actively addresses health problems by operating a fully functional Dental Clinic, Health and Wellness Center and engaging in community health initiatives. The organization emphasizes preventative care and wellness to improve overall community health.
Q: What specific issues related to extreme poverty does TEARS focus on?
A: TEARS focuses on a range of issues associated with extreme poverty, including but not limited to juvenile delinquency, lack of education, health problems, teenage pregnancy, and substance abuse. The organization adopts a comprehensive approach to tackle these interconnected challenges both physically and spiritually.
Q: How can I contribute to T.E.A.R.S' mission?
A: If you're interested in supporting T.E.A.R.S, you can explore various ways to contribute, such as making donations www.tears.org (donate), volunteering, or participating in fundraising events or bring small groups to partner with locals. Visit our official website or contact us directly at info@tears.org for more information on how to get involved.
Q: Does T.E.A.R.S operate outside of La Vega, Dominican Republic?
A: T.E.A.R.S is based in La Vega, Dominican Republic, however, there are projects serving the Haitian community, Chilean community, and collaborations with ministries around the world. Check our official communications for any updates on potential expansion or additional projects.
T.E.A.R.S James Davis High School
Q: How was the school constructed?
A: Our school is made from 29, 40ft. shipping containers.
Q: What is the graduation rate of your students?
A: 93% of our students graduate and 65% go on to college!
Q: What is the mission statement for the school?
A: At the T.E.A.R.S. High School, we believe that a Christian education is profoundly significant for underprivileged youth in the Dominican Republic. It not only offers them a path out of poverty but education equips these young individuals with knowledge and skills for personal and professional development while strengthening their moral values and faith.
T.E.A.R.S College Scholarship Program
Q: What is the college scholarship program?
A: The college scholarship program provides financial support to access and graduate from university. A big part of our program is to provide regular follow ups with our students and give them full access to our counseling center. By empowering these young individuals to pursue their dreams of higher education, the scholarship program equips them with the knowledge and skills needed to be competitive in professional environments and foster hope, self-worth, and a sense of purpose.
T.E.A.R.S Water Purification Plant
Q: What is the community water purification project?
A: The water purification project provides affordable clean drinking water that reduces the risk of waterborne diseases like cholera, dysentery, and typhoid, leading to better overall health. We provide home delivery services for the community, and the water is free for our local schools and students.
Q: Why is this project important?
A: In underdeveloped Dominican communities, clean drinking water is vital. It helps eradicate waterborne diseases, improves public health, and empowers people, especially women and children, by saving time spent on water collection and enabling them to focus on education and economic opportunities. It's a catalyst for development and a brighter future!
T.E.A.R.S Early Learning Center
Q: What is the early learning center?
A: Early childhood education is of paramount importance for underprivileged children. With our early learning center, students can begin their educational journey as early as 18 months old.
Q: How many students attend the early learning center?
A: This year 78 students are attending our early learning center... with more on the wait list.
T.E.A.R.S Sports Mentorship
Q: Which sports are included in sports mentorship?
A: Our programs include amputee soccer, girls’ soccer, boys’ soccer, youth baseball, volleyball, and other extracurricular activities that are crucial in keeping youth actively involved in positive uplifting endeavors.
Q: Why is this work important?
A: These sports provide a secure and organized setting where young people may direct their energy into constructive endeavors. Through engagement in these programs, individuals develop vital life proficiencies, including collaboration, leadership, self-control, and guidance, which have immeasurable worth in both athletic and non-athletic contexts.
T.E.A.R.S Haitian Bible Institute
Q: How does the program work?
A: Our Bible Institute is a four-year program, working in conjunction with Denver Seminary.
Q: How many churches have been planted as a result of the institute?
A: To date there has been over 30 new churches planted throughout Haiti, Chile, and the Dominican Republic.
Q: How does the institute teach leadership?
A: The institute plays a pivotal role in nurturing future spiritual leaders in the Dominican Republic and Haiti. Through rigorous theological education and training, it equips students with the knowledge and skills to serve as pastors and leaders in their local churches. Graduates of the institute emerge as dynamic, compassionate spiritual leaders who bring positive transformation to their communities.
Q: What are the main objectives of the trainings provided?
A: The institute places a strong emphasis on community service, instilling in its students a commitment to give back. This integrated approach not only prepares leaders for their crucial roles but also fosters a sense of responsibility and dedication to their congregations and communities, enabling them to become beacons of hope and guidance for their fellow believers in the Dominican Republic, Chile, and Haiti.
Contact T.E.A.R.S
Mailing Address:
3614 NE 50th Ave. Portland, OR 97213
E-mail:
Phone Number (Whatsapp):
503-708-0176