My name is Lucas Bryan Mackey, I am a rising sophomore at Virginia Tech University and a biology major in the honors college. My hometown is Fanwood, New Jersey and I went to Brunner elementary school, Park Middle School, and Scotch Plains Fanwood High School. My family has been a part of the St. Bartholomew community since 1999, where I received all my sacraments.

Can you tell us about the volunteer trip you are taking this summer? Starting July 19th, my team of pre-dental students and I will depart on a two-week trip that encompasses many parts of being a dentist. This trip will be located in Jaraboca, Dominican Republic, a mountainous region of the island. One of the most exciting and vital parts of interning with VAW Global is bringing full dental clinics and primary care medical clinics to the less fortunate. One of the things that make our dental mobile clinics unique is that we are able to perform multiple procedures including fillings, restorations, cleanings, and extractions at the mobile clinic. Fundraising for supplies and medications is a huge part of creating a successful mobile clinic to help the local communities with effective care.

Did your faith impact your decision to go on this mission? My faith impacted my decision to participate in this volunteer opportunity because it constantly encouraged me to build my own unique bridge to our father. I've always believed that we serve and volunteer confidently, knowing that God prepared the way for us.  Being in a situation as fortunate as I am, it excites me to experience the polarity of cultures through volunteering. 

What are you looking forward to most about your trip? Something I am passionate about is traveling to cultures that are contrasting to the United States. The Dominican Republic offers a rich history which I am excited to not only learn about but experience firsthand. Offering my service as a volunteer is only a small part of this trip, as I look forward to uniting with those in the Dominican who accept me on their beautiful soil.