“Fulfilling the Unseen Hope With Faith!”
About Giving the Unexpected Inc, 501c3
Our Cause
Giving the Unexpected, INC is located South Florida and registered as a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Our mission is to provide unexpected opportunities of individual and family development to the residents of the Dominican Republic and Florida.
Our Vision
Our Impact
Our vision, as a globally minded team, is to implement and carry out poverty reduction programs and international aid to the people who need them most. Join us as we restore hope and opportunity to the deprived and downtrodden.
Each dollar donated, each hour volunteered has a powerful impact on the individuals and families we serve. With your help, we are creating positive change in the Dominican Republic and Florida communities.
Creating Positive Change
Our initiatives are designed to empower, uplift, and provide unexpected opportunities. Discover how you can contribute to this cause.
Our Inspiration
Discover the roots of Giving the Unexpected and learn about the inspiring story that led to the establishment of our organization.
Be an Impact
Volunteer for current programs and actively contribute to making a positive difference in the community.
Donate & Support
Support GTU's mission in various ways – from shopping at our swag store to participating in birthday fundraisers or making monetary donations.
Fundraisers & Events
Explore the latest events and fundraisers aimed at supporting communities in the Dominican Republic and South Florida, and join us in making a positive impact.
Stay Informed
Sign up for newsletters to stay updated on GTU's initiatives and receive timely event updates.
Initiatives
Explore GTU's past projects, gaining insights into our current and past initiatives.
Our Inspiration
Meet the Founders
& Board of Directors
The reunion in 2012, between her, her sister, Kerry and their biological family in the Dominican Republic, after being adopted 27 years prior, was, to say the least, a remarkably life-changing experience in Shannon's life.
With the start of this new chapter came their inspiration to establish the non-profit organization, Giving the Unexpected. She has always had a passion for helping others and found it extremely rewarding to have the opportunity in making a difference in people's lives. She would say, it's her "calling".
Shannon is family oriented and has 2 children. Her hobbies are sewing, crafting, watching documentaries, spending time with her family and traveling to the Dominican Republic. She brings to the board an extensive background in the legal field, as a paralegal for over 20 years.
Shannon Jean, Founder
Kerry Howard, Founder
Since Kerry’s reunion with her birth sister, Shannon, and their family in the Dominican Republic in 2012, she has had the incredible opportunity to immerse herself in their shared culture and roots. This reunion not only deepened her connection with her family but also enhanced her passion for giving back.
Throughout her life, Kerry has always had a giving heart, a trait that guided her into a career in education and edtech. As an educator, she has witnessed the power of building relationships and community, and it's a passion she carries into every aspect of her life.
Kerry truly believes that her purpose is to make a positive impact on families and children, inspired by the blessings she's received in her own life and from her adoptive family. Now, she has the privilege of extending hope to even more children each year.
In addition to her professional endeavors, Kerry is a busy mama of three. Every day, she strives to impact others through everything she does, whether it's through her work, her family life, or her community involvement.
Advisory Board
Manuel “Tony” Castillo, Director
Tony Castillo was born and raised in the Dominican Republic. He is a hard-working and devoted husband and father. He works diligently for his expanded family, making sure everyone is safe and stable. Tony is a well-known and involved member of his community in Bani, and looks forward to taking the leadership and representation of our organization in a prosperous direction.
Contact Us
info@givingtheunexpected.org
Socialize With Us!