Photo credit: Sip With Intention.
One year after Rebuild Dominica’s inaugural Island Tea Party Fundraiser, we celebrate the people, generosity and shared purpose that made it possible, and look ahead to its return in August 2027.
Held on August 16, 2025, in Laurel, Maryland, the first Island Tea Party brought a familiar Caribbean tradition into a gathering with a larger purpose: connecting our diaspora and friends of Dominica around education, community service and resilience.
August also carries a special connection to our Caribbean-American community in Maryland. The state observes Caribbean Heritage Month each August, recognizing Caribbean Americans’ contributions to Maryland and encouraging educational and cultural programs. This designation is recorded in Maryland’s General Provisions, § 7-504. For RDI, gathering in August offers a meaningful opportunity to celebrate that heritage while connecting cultural pride with service, education and community support.
More than tea: a gathering rooted in Koudmen
At the heart of the afternoon was the spirit of Koudmen, lending a hand and working together for the good of the community. The tea party gave that principle a welcoming setting, where conversation and cultural connection could lead to lasting support for RDI’s work.
The inaugural program brought together a curated tea experience, Caribbean cultural performances, remarks from regional leaders and a silent auction. The gathering and awards ceremony also made space to recognize service and remind supporters that the strength of a volunteer collective comes from the people willing to contribute.
In its post-event sponsor acknowledgment, RDI reported more than $4,300 raised in support of priorities including scholarships for Dominican youth, emergency response upgrades, diaspora engagement and cultural preservation. Beyond the funds raised, the event offered an opportunity to introduce new supporters to the work and strengthen relationships that can carry it forward.
Thank you to the people behind the inaugural event
We are grateful to the guests, donors, sponsors and volunteers who helped launch this fundraiser. Their contributions of time, resources and professional expertise made the first gathering possible.
Sip With Intention supported the event through planning, execution and décor services. We thank the team for helping create an inviting tea experience and for the photograph featured in this anniversary acknowledgment. We also recognize the sponsors and community partners whose support helped turn an idea into a shared occasion with purpose.
Watch the 2025 Island Tea Party & Awards Ceremony ↗, or revisit the inaugural fundraiser announcement.
A thoughtful new rhythm: every two years
Although the Island Tea Party was initially envisioned as an annual event, RDI did not hold a tea party fundraiser in 2026. We are moving to a biennial schedule, with a gathering every two years in August, to give this occasion the time and attention it deserves.
A longer planning cycle creates more room to develop the program, engage sponsors, coordinate volunteers and promote the event across our community. Our aim is a more fully developed production, a stronger sense of anticipation and a larger turnout with each gathering.
The time between tea parties will also allow us to bring supporters a fuller picture of the work their generosity helps sustain. As RDI continues its education, relief and community initiatives, the gathering can become a meaningful moment to reconnect, recognize progress and renew our commitment together.
Looking ahead to August 2027
The next Island Tea Party Fundraiser is planned for August 2027. RDI intends to select a different venue in Maryland’s Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, close to the organization’s headquarters and its community of supporters.
The exact date and venue will be announced in early 2027. There is no confirmed venue or ticket release yet; please watch this website for official updates.
If you would like to help shape the next gathering as a sponsor, collaborator or volunteer, start a conversation with Rebuild Dominica. In the meantime, explore the work behind the gathering and the ways you can help keep it moving.