Using Volunteer Day to help Build Affordable Housing

We are incredibly proud to share how Victor Mansfield recently used his corporate Volunteer Day to make a life-changing difference in the Dominican Republic.

Victor traveled with A Hand Up Group (AHUG), a non-profit founded by Mario Matos. Mario, a plumber by trade, spent years on mission trips before establishing AHUG to provide sustainable housing and support to families in need.

Bridging the Gap to Homeownership

During his week on the ground, Victor rolled up his sleeves to lay concrete flooring and paint walls for a transitional home. This unique housing model allows a family to live rent-free while they save the funds necessary to build their own permanent residence. Once they transition out, a new family moves in, creating a continuous cycle of opportunity.

More Than Just Construction

The mission went beyond bricks and mortar. Victor and the AHUG team also assembled 300 essential food packages (rice, beans, fish, pasta, and more), then partnered with local churches to distribute these supplies to the community.

In Victor’s Words:

“I’ve always liked helping, but after my first trip, I fell in love with the people; big smiles, friendly demeanor, and enormous hearts. This is the next level. It is more than just raising money, it is making a tangible difference in the lives of a family. I am humbled, and it gives me a deep appreciation for all I have and everything around me.”

Victor has worked with Mario before and describes the experience as rewarding beyond measure. He plans to continue these trips for as long as he is able.

We are honored to support employees like Victor who embody our values and dedicate their time to building a better world.