FAQ's and Packing Lists

1. Who makes up short-term mission teams?
   Each week we recruit up to 100 missionaries from various denominational youth groups, adult groups and families. This summer, trips are planned for mixed ages junior and senior high or families. This more closely models the makeup of the communities in which we provide service. There are also opportunities for groups to come for a week, long weekend, or Saturday in the fall or spring to participate in the ongoing mission as well. 
   
2. Who supervises the youth group participants?
   Each youth group needs to have one adult volunteer (age 21 years or older) for every five students. Your adult volunteers are responsible for the safety and supervision of your team at all times. Our staff will provide additional guidance and consultation for your work project(s). 
   
3. How much does it cost?
   For youth/adult groups each week-long mission trip costs $385 per participant. For family groups the charge per participant is also $385, or $190 for children age 4-10 years. This covers everything listed in the ‘What’s Included” section above. A minimum construction donation is requested and based on your group or family size. Click here for payment details. 
   
4. Where do we stay?
   Lodging is provided onsite at the Smith Lake School.
5. What do we do at night?
   Most evenings your group or family will participate in a time of praise and worship followed by a fun yet challenging and thought-provoking program. The specially designed evening program helps to draw participants further into the mission experience, develop community, and explore God-honoring, Christ-centered service. On one evening you will spend time in fellowship and worship at a local church while another evening is spent at a good old-fashioned community cookout. Groups also have time to meet each evening to share reflections and the day's experiences.
6. What do we bring?
   Bring good attitudes, Bible, clothes, bedding or sleeping bag, towels, construction tools, your friends and more.
7. When do we get there and when do we leave?
   Our weeklong mission projects begin on Sundays for youth groups and family trips. There is an opportunity to arrive for Sunday morning worship in the community you will be serving in. Formal check-in will happen Sunday afternoon between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. You'll be packed and on your way home by 10 a.m. the following Saturday.
8. Will we have any free time?
   Yes. You will have some free time each day. You also will have a day off to either go to the reservation, sightseeing or participate in other adventurous activities.
9. Will we have any free time?
   Yes. You will have some free time each day. You also will have a day off to either go to the reservation, sightseeing or participate in other adventurous activities.
10.  Who is World Vision?
    World Vision is a Christian relief and development organization dedicated to helping children and their communities worldwide reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty. We serve those struggling against the negative effects of poverty, regardless of a person's religion, race, ethnicity, or gender. The organization was founded in 1950 and works in nearly 100 countries, including the United States.
11.  What is included in the training materials?
    Training materials will be sent to the leader of your group or to your family for use in preparing your team or family for a meaningful and potentially life-changing experience in rural America. The training allows leaders to get a better feel for their work project(s), and come to know more about the people they will be working alongside in the community.

 If your family or youth group is interested in more information, please contact: