Our Story

The Dominican Starfish Foundation is a non-profit committed to transforming lives in underserved communities in the Dominican Republic. Since 2013, we have built over 250 homes, established a community center, and supported local schools with lunch programs, educational sponsorships, and vocational training. Our programs also provide essential supplies, healthcare support, and volunteer opportunities. Through these initiatives, we aim to create lasting change by improving living conditions, education, and health for families in need.

SUPPORT OUR CAUSE

Meet our team

After witnessing the needs in the Dominican Republic, we began providing clothing, food, and building homes, schools, and shelters. We operate through registered charities in Canada (Dominican Starfish Foundation), the U.S. (PAL Humanitarian Services Inc.), and the Dominican Republic (Fundación Amor, Estrella de Mar, es Amor), with boards in each country working together to support our mission.

President & Founder of PAL Humanitarian Services, Inc

Pearl Giles

Pearl and her family first visited the Dominican Republic in 2000, where they were moved to help the local communities. In 2015, Pearl and Louise ZoBell combined their humanitarian efforts to create Dominican Starfish Foundation, further expanding their mission of providing aid to families in need.

Executive Director & Founder

Louise ZoBell

A mother of 8 and grandmother to 35, Louise first visited the Dominican Republic in 2006, where she was moved to help families in need. She co-founded the foundation in 2012 and now dedicates her time full-time to fundraising and managing projects in the Dominican Republic, supported by a dedicated board of directors.

Director of Fundación Amor, Estrella de Mar, es Amor

Amarilis Urena

A teacher with extensive qualifications, she has worked alongside Louise ZoBell since 2011, helping manage humanitarian projects. Amarilis dedicates countless hours to overseeing donations and coordinating efforts on the ground, supported by a local board of directors.

President of the Board of Directors

Doug Palmer

His first trip to the Dominican Republic in 2006 sparked a lifelong commitment to helping those in need. Doug and his family brought supplies to a rural school, and the experience inspired him to support the foundation’s efforts to improve the lives of impoverished communities.