Building a team that operates as a family.
Our Team
Keith and Amy Melugin
Our journey began back in 2011, Keith attended a mission’s conference where he learned about the exploited and vulnerable that are affected by human trafficking and the sex trade. He heard how the body of Christ across the world was rescuing people and wanted to be part of this movement.
After many years in pastoral ministry and education, they moved to the Dominican Republic in 2016 and founded Heart of Hispaniola. Heart of Hispaniola is a nonprofit driven by a simple yet powerful mission: to bring hope and transformation to Dominican and Haitian women trapped in the sex industry of the Dominican Republic. They need freedom. They need Jesus.
Founders
Aura
Aura’s essential, supporting role at the Ministry Center is using her gift of hospitality to greet the women who have chosen to come in. She offers them a meal, coffee or glass of clean drinking water. Her warm welcome is a place of safety that is often the first encounter these women have with real hope. Aura also helps cook meals for large outreach events at the Ministry Center.
Hospitality Coordinator
Elpidio
Elpidio manages and maintains our Ministry Center in Santiago and the Mission Team House in the mountains. He is a skilled craftsman, but an even more passionate evangelist. Elpidio is a local pastor and connects with many Dominican churches.
Facilities Manager
Ligia
Ligia’s primary role is discipleship of the women that come to the Ministry Center in Santiago. She leads many of the women through Bible studies and the Celebrate Recovery program. Ligia is also actively involved with leading worship at her local church.
Ministry Center Director