Hi everyone, my name is Bella VanNatter. For those who may not know me well, I am a sophomore at the University of Saint Francis in Fort Wayne, and I am studying Biology Pre-Medicine. The University of Saint Francis has a medical missions trip that serves those in the countryside of the Dominican Republic every spring, and I am honored to have been chosen as a member this year through the Formula for Life project. I will be traveling as a member of the Formula for Life team, which focuses on bringing together a group of students, doctors, veterinarians, and dentists to provide medical, dental, and veterinary care to local villages. Our Formula for Life team works with an organization, Building Bridges of Hope, to make all of this possible.

The goal of this healthcare mission trip is to serve others while giving students the opportunity to see healthcare in an underdeveloped country. This experience will allow me to help those in need of medical, dental, veterinary, and nutritional care and ultimately open my eyes to the hardships these communities face. I am excited to be a part of this missions trip, and I believe that it will inspire me to continue serving others and live a life rooted in service and compassion.

I am asking for the help of my friends and family to support me, whether that be helping me cover the costs of airfare and the expenses associated with Building Bridges of Hope, such as translators and necessary supplies, or even by praying for myself and those going on this trip. I am so grateful and thankful for any support you can give, whether it be prayers or financial contributions.

As many of you know, giving back to my community has always been something that I have been very passionate about. Whether it’s helping locally with my backpacks for the homeless, supporting events, or simply showing up for people when they need it most, service has shaped me into who I am and how I see the world. Now, having the opportunity to extend that love and care to people in the Dominican Republic feels incredibly meaningful and humbling. This is more than just a trip or a project; it is a chance for me to connect, to learn from others’ strength and joy, and to give my time and energy where it’s truly needed. I’m grateful for the chance to step outside of my everyday life and to be part of something bigger than myself. I have always loved giving back to my community, but this opportunity allows me to open my eyes to something much bigger. Thank you all so much for helping me pursue this amazing opportunity and dream of mine, and for supporting me.

Thank you,

Bella VanNatter