"It is not all about the carpentry work. It is a relationship ministry in which you learn and grow with GOD, members of the church, and those in which open their homes for us - with home repairs on the side."
"It is an excellent opportunity to serve and grow - regardless of your skill set."
"It is amazing to see how GOD builds our teams and sends us to the correct families and projects. "
ASP is a ministry opportunity started over 50 years ago by Methodist Pastor, Tex Evans, in an effort to make homes Warmer, Safer, and Drier in the Central Appalachia Mountains. This ministry serves NC, Tennesse, Virginia, West Virginia, and Kentucky. During the week long trip, we offer the love of Jesus Christ with the home owners along with performing home repairs.
Special Skills: Love Jesus or willing to learn about Jesus' love for all people. Willingness to serve and ability to learn new things. Basic carpentry skills are a plus, however not required.
Time Commitment: Sunday-Saturday Mission trip, usually in June.
Length of Commitment: Year long commitment. Planning and fundraising begin in the fall for the following summer mission trip.
Training: Safe Sanctuaries, attend quarterly meetings, and fundraisers
Financial Commitment: We request a $100 deposit to secure a position prior to our registration with ASP. We ask that the balance of $125 be paid by December 31, with a total financial cost per person of $225.
Fundraising Expectations: We have periodic fundraisers during the year. Our largest fundraiser is our T-shirt sponsorship, in which we request that each member send a letter seeking a $50 sponsorships from friends and family.
Organization Link: www.ASPHome.org
Contact: Lewis Smith
A team of adult men and women (varies from 8-16 people) travels to Costa Rica to assist Fuente de Gracia Methodist Church with ongoing expansion and improvement of its facilities. Work can consist of anything from pouring concrete to painting, framing, drywall, and other types of light construction. We usually work an 8 hour days on weekdays. The team is housed at the church in dormitory style rooms. Meals are prepared by a team of women at the church. We share in two worship services each week, and also fellowship with the congregation. Saturday and Sunday afternoons are usually spent in recreation/adventure, often visiting local beaches. Evenings are usually free to explore the local community. The weather is hot (in the 90's) dry, and usually windy.
Special Skills: Specific construction skills are not a requirement. Having an attitude that is open to a new culture (Spanish is the official language), and new experiences is important. A servants heart in relationship to other team members and our brothers and sisters in Costa Rica is important. A sense of humor is a requirement, as is a tremendous amount of flexibility and patience.
Time Commitment: The trip is usually about 11-12 days including travel days. Most of the team travels on the same days. However, the airport is very close and those that need to travel on different days can usually be accommodated easily. There are usually 2 team meetings of 1 hour each prior to the trip itself. The first of these meetings is used to establish the actual dates of the trip for that year. Currently the preferred dates fall within the first 3 weeks of February.
Length of Commitment: This is a year by year commitment. Many people have returned each year for 10 years, while others participate for one year only.
Training: Team leaders maintain training required by the UMMVIM. Team members have no specific training required other than attendance at team meetings.
Financial Commitment: Team members are responsible for purchase of their own plane tickets. The price usually ranges from $400-$600. An additional $100 is required of each team member toward room and board. Weekend meals, souvenirs, and entertainment are each persons own responsibility ( $200 might be an average, depending on personal spending habits). A valid passport is also a requirement. If you don't already have a passport the 2020 fee is $145. Financial assistance may be available within the ministry budget for those who wish to serve but don't have sufficient funds.
Fundraising Expectations: The current budget for this ministry is sustainable and fundraisers have not been needed for the last several years. When fundraising events are needed, team member participation is expected.
Organization Link: fuentegegraci.org
Contact: Reid Hildreth or Dennis Coggin
Kidz Konnect 4 Jesus KK4J is a long term ministry located in Belize. Along with medical trips, they host family impact missions that share life skills, Bible studies, and other activities to help the people of southern Belize. The Family Impact Mission is for families that would like to serve together.
Special Skills: Willingness to serve and share the Gospel with people in Belize.
Time Commitment: 7 days
Length of Commitment: Fundraising throughout the year.
Training: Several meetings and gatherings throughout the year.
Financial Commitment: Usually the cost of the flight plus minimal costs, but scholarships are available.
Fundraising Expectations: Participate in 3 fundraisers per year.
Organization Link: KidsKonnet4Jesus.org
Contact: Bill Lumpp