The Founders and Legacy of DSAFI: A Story of Dedication and Support
By: Mary Claire Bello
The Dominican Scholarship Assistance Fund Inc. (DSAFI) owes its roots to a dedicated group of founders, each committed to transforming lives through education. The founders include Mr. Joe Balquin, Mr. Manolo Evangelista, Mr. James Balin, Mr. Ernesto Ballano, and Mr. David Curry and Mr. Jose Ballesteros, whose vision and perseverance continue to drive the organization’s mission.
As recalled by founding member Mr. Joe Balquin, affectionately known as “Lolo Joe”, the idea for SDSAFI began around 2000. During this time, Mr. David Curry, a Peace Corp volunteer previously assigned in Sto. Domingo, provided an initial seed fund of $1,000. This early investment signified Mr. Curry’s unwavering commitment to education and his trust in the leaders he had assembled. Inspired by Mr. Curry’s support, the founders officially established SDSAFI, with Lolo Joe taking on the role of the organization’s very first President.
Over the years, the founders dedicated themselves to building SDSAFI into a pillar of support for scholars in the Dominican community. Their leadership laid the groundwork for a sustainable organization that would continue to grow and adapt to the needs of future scholars.
As the initial generation of SDSAFI leaders transitioned from their roles, a new team of officials stepped up to carry forward the founders’ legacy. The present Dominican Scholarship Assistance Fund, inc. (DSAFI) was then formed, now led by the new sets of Board of Trustees composed of Mr. Christian C. Calleja, Mrs. Paciencia B. Balin, Ms. Sheryl Z. Baliwas, Ms. Julie Ann A. Ballaran, Ms. Cheenee O. Mendina, and Mr. Joey M. Balquin. The organization has also expanded its team to include Ms. Sandria C. Barnedo as Office Administrator and Mr. Carmelo Jr. A. Balbin as the Office Assistant.
Through their collective efforts, the current board honors the vision and hard work of DSAFI’s founders. They continue to build upon the foundation laid by Mr. Curry, Lolo Joe, and the other original leaders, ensuring that DSAFI remains a source of hope and opportunity for future generations.