In the rolling hills of the Dominican Republic, where fertile soil meets the challenges of an unpredictable climate, Franklin’s story stands as a beacon of transformation. Before joining a Purpose Group through Plant With Purpose, he wrestled with deep uncertainty about his future.
"The biggest concern I had before joining the Purpose Group was that I didn't have a piece of land to plant," he recalls. "That was something that affected my peace of mind a lot."
Like many in his rural community, he depended on the land to provide for his family. But without his own plot, he was forced to rely on unstable work opportunities. In a region where environmental degradation and deforestation have stripped away much of the land’s fertility, farming had become a risky endeavor. His anxiety grew as he watched neighbors struggle to make ends meet, and he knew he needed a change.
That change came when he joined a Purpose Group, facilitated by Plant With Purpose. Through this program, farmers save small amounts of money, access loans, and invest in sustainable agriculture practices that not only improve their livelihoods but also restore the environment.
At first, Franklin was skeptical. Could a group like this really make a difference? But as he observed others benefiting—accessing funds, improving their farms, and supporting one another—hope began to take root. "After I joined the group and started saving and observing all the benefits, I realized that I would have a big change in my life."
With the support of his Purpose Group, he was able to purchase a small plot of land—something that once seemed impossible. He didn’t stop there. He put into practice the sustainable farming techniques he learned and transformed his land into a thriving, diverse farm.
"Through the group, I got a loan and bought a piece of land and started to establish my own plot," Franklin shares. "I have it planted with coffee, banana, orange, lemon, and avocado. I feel much better now."
This transformation was not just about financial security. It was about resilience—creating a farm that could withstand environmental challenges. By planting a variety of trees and crops, he reduced his risk of losing everything to a single disaster, such as drought or disease.
Franklin’s farm also contributed to the health of the local environment. Trees help retain moisture in the soil, prevent erosion, and restore nutrients. They also play a vital role in mitigating climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide.
"The change I see is that all those trees I have planted, that I continue to plant, give me benefits for my family's livelihood and also improve the environment, protect the soil, and produce water."
Life as a farmer in the Dominican Republic is not easy. Climate change has intensified droughts, storms, and soil degradation. But beyond these natural threats, harmful human activities such as deforestation and aggressive agriculture have put additional pressure on the land.
"One of the biggest challenges we have had to struggle with here in the area has been deforestation, solid waste, and burning of the forests by people who mistreat the environment," he explains.
These practices have left the land vulnerable and unproductive. But through education and advocacy, farmers like him are working to reverse the damage. He now shares what he has learned with his neighbors, encouraging them to embrace agroforestry—an approach that integrates trees into farming systems for long-term sustainability.
"I think we all need to raise awareness about these environmental problems that affect us. The farmers here in the community have Plant With Purpose, which has taught us soil conservation techniques, use of organic fertilizer, and planting environmentally friendly crops."
Franklin points to agroforestry as a key solution, one that "really helps to heal the environment."
Beyond the farm, his Purpose Group has changed the fabric of the community itself. In the past, many farmers struggled in isolation, hesitant to trust one another. Other organizations had tried to support the area before, but none had made a lasting impact.
"Other organizations had come here to work and form partnerships with the farmers. But it was never like this Purpose Group. Things work very differently now," Franklin says.
Through regular meetings, the farmers not only manage their savings and loans but also strengthen relationships. "It is like a school where one learns to be more organized, disciplined, responsible, and more respectful."
Now, instead of working alone, they tackle challenges together. They share resources, knowledge, and encouragement. "In the weekly meetings, we share ideas in order because they are established rules. Now in the community, we know each other better because we do things together. Before, everyone went their own way and nobody cared about each other's problems. Now we work together and we feel more like a family."
For Franklin, farming is more than a livelihood—it is an act of faith. The land he works, the trees he plants, and the harvest he gathers all serve as reminders of God’s presence.
"Nature has taught me about God—that everything above this earth and everything I see around me is made by God. It is a blessing that God has placed in our hands to enjoy.”
Franklin’s work has deepened his understanding of stewardship, the biblical principle of caring for creation. Every morning, he wakes up grateful for the land he has been given and the opportunity to nurture it. "I wake up every day thanking God for the fact that I wake up alive and can see God’s work manifest itself through the trees, the wind, and the air I breathe."
Each tree he plants is an act of worship, a testament to God’s provision and the responsibility humans have to protect His creation. "Every time I plant a tree, every time I harvest oranges or a bunch of bananas, it inspires me to continue planting the earth so that nature continues to beautify the world."
What began as uncertainty has blossomed into a life of abundance and hope. With his farm now producing food and income, his future is more secure. His community is stronger, and his environment is healing.
Franklin’s journey is proof that change is possible—not just for individuals, but for entire regions impacted by poverty and deforestation. Through faith, community, and sustainable practices, farmers like him are rewriting the story of rural life in the Dominican Republic.
And this is just the beginning.
With every tree planted, every crop harvested, and every farmer empowered, the future grows greener and more hopeful.
Join the Movement
Plant With Purpose is helping farmers like Franklin break the cycle of poverty, restore the land, and build stronger communities.
By supporting this work, you can be part of the solution—helping plant trees, provide sustainable farming training, and empower families with financial stability.
Together, we can create a future where farmers don’t just survive, but thrive.
👉 Join us. Be part of the change. Support a Purpose Group today.
