Dominican Family Build
Helping to rebuild homes, lives in the Rockaways

By Gina Fleming, OP (Amityville)

During the week of August 17–21, 20 sisters, associates and young people from Amityville, Blauvelt, Sparkill, and Sinsinawa participated in the first Dominican Family Build. We all came together to help the people in the Rockaways, Long Island, New York, try to rebuild their homes and their lives.

We worked at three different sites during the week two in Brooklyn, and one in Far Rockaway. We hung dry wall, mudded, and did a lot of sanding. It was hard work but thankfully the weather, which wasn’t too warm, cooperated and all was done in a great spirit of collaboration and fun!

The spirit of family was very evident, as we worked together during the day and then went back to the places where we were staying to share a meal and gather for prayer and reflection on our days. Sister Pat Hogan, OP (Sparkill) brought along a great group from her parish as well as other sisters. The associates, young people, and other friends from Amityville were also there to lend a hand in the project. Sister Maryellen O’Grady, OP (Amityville), director of Dominican Sisters in Committed Collaboration (OPSCC) also joined us.

Many thanks go to those who put us up for the week and those who provided meals for us after a hard day’s work. Thanks so much for the great food! To all those who donated financially to assist us in this build, our sincere thanks to you too! Hope to see you all next year.