La Loma’s purpose was to train locals for the emerging resort industry. In 2001 the local sugar mill closed, and as a result, the school was besieged with people wishing to be retrained and thus find work. The school was unable to accommodate the increased demand. In 2001 a Canadian Rotarian, Bob McAllister & friend Bob Kirk rode bicycles from Whitby, Ontario to Chicago, Illinois in order to raise money for an addition to La Loma. By raising $35,000, a new building was constructed and opened in 2004. Last year (2006) saw 314 graduates in areas such as waiter/waitress, bartending, small engine repair, & plumbing to list a few. All found placement in their area of study. This is significant since the unemployment rate of the region prior to La Loma was 90%.

Ongoing stewardship of La Loma is carried out by Infotep (approx. English translation: Institute National Formation of Technical Professionals). Infotep is a Dominican agency controlled by private sector and government funding. They provide salaries for teachers, along with curriculums for various courses. An Infotep diploma is internationally recognized, thus students graduating from La Loma can find work throughout the Caribbean and around the world. La Loma has just been recognized for Educational Excellence by Spanish American countries, and will receive this prestigious award in Panama later this year.

Due to its success, La Loma must expand once again. The new building was constructed with the provision of adding a second floor at a later date. That later date is now. While Infotep funds the ongoing operation of La Loma, they do not have the capital funds for expansion. Therefore, in June of 2008, Bob McAllister & Bob Kirk, with a group of new recruits, will once again ride their bicycles in order to raise the much needed funds for La Loma’s expansion. This ride will be known as “Viva La Loma”, and will involve 12 riders, plus support personnel. The ride will be 1100km from Vancouver to Calgary through the Canadian Rocky Mountains.

Bronze Sponsors (donations of $200.00 or more), will have their name painted on a ceramic tile on the sponsorship wall at La Loma in recognition of their contribution. Silver Sponsors (donations of $1,000 or more), will receive substantial recognition of signage on support vehicles; rider’s uniforms; and our website and in addition will have their name painted on a group of four ceramic tiles on the sponsorship wall in recognition of their contribution. This will be further enhanced by numerous media appearances. Gold Sponsors (donations of $5,000 or more), will receive all of the recognition given to silver sponsor's + more. Platinum Sponsors (donations of $10,000 or more), will receive all of the recognition given to gold sponsors and in addition will have a plaque in their name be erected on the building of La Loma. Thus students, teachers and visitors will forever be reminded of the individuals and business that helped to make higher education possible. Please note: 100% of all money raised will go directly to La Loma.

Should you have any further questions, please contact us by e-mail at info@vivalaloma.com. If you have a question for an individual rider you can access their e-mail address on the participants page. This is an opportunity to be much more than a donor. You will be providing education and opportunity for Dominicans to better their lives and provide for their families.

Please give generously.

Sincerely,



The La Loma Team Riders