Despite vast natural resources and beauty beyond measure, Appalachia fights for freedom from poverty and despair daily. Unemployment tracks higher than the national average, and many people in this area work in low-paying jobs below their skill level. Many residents are jobless, poverty-stricken, and lacking in educational resources. The people of the Appalachian mountains are strong and come from a legacy of hard work, but years of discouragement have taken their toll. Many people work multiple jobs, collect government aid, and sacrifice just to make ends meet.

The people of Appalachia need help to restore their promise of a better future.

Our partners have a variety of ministry programs in which your team will be able to engage.

Ministry could look like:

Building Relationships: Your primary ministry will be to the elderly, joining in games and crafts, singing songs, telling stories, and building relationships with those who feel forgotten.

Home Restoration/Work Projects: You will also partner with a non-profit ministry that helps with basic home repairs and cleaning to the elderly or homebound individuals. Most of all, you'll build relationships with those isolated from society, reminding them that they are seen and loved by God.

Recovery Program Ministry: Specializing in recovery programs for youth, families, and adults, one of our partners helps those recovering from alcohol or substance abuse learn to live their lives drug-free and alcohol free. They provide free programs and services through education, training, counseling and mentoring, to combat addictions. Your teams will have the opportunity to work at the youth center, thrift store and apartment complex. This could entail fellowshipping, sidewalk VBS, distributing clothes, landscaping, light construction, and prayer walks.

Homeless Ministry: There are several homeless shelters for men, women, and children who may be impoverished economically, educationally, emotionally and/or spiritually. Here, your team might do light construction, cleaning, organizing, or landscaping. This is also a great place to fellowship and share your faith.

Retail Store: Here your team might help by sorting clothes that are donated as well as furniture and merchandise. Cleaning, organizing, helping customers, and fellowshipping with each other and the people all around there. 

VBS: You could have the opportunity to facilitate some kids camps or programs for the local community children.

Light Construction: Teams may have the opportunity to assist local businesses, churches, or families in light yard work or a construction project. This may include painting, clearing debris/sticks, or cleaning. 

Lodging:

We'll be staying in a spacious church in Bluefield, West Virginia with plenty of classrooms, so you’ll have comfortable sleeping areas for both males and females. For those who prefer camping out, the gym floor is perfect for sleeping bags.

In the gym, you'll find two bathrooms stocked with multiple toilets and sinks, ensuring everyone can freshen up easily. While we only have two showers on-site, don't worry – there's a convenient spot nearby, similar to a YMCA, where everyone can take a refreshing shower.

Get ready for a fun and fulfilling adventure, where we'll not only serve others but also make lasting memories together as a group!

God is calling you to journey with Him, to share His love with the nations and establish His Kingdom on earth. Will you join Him in Appalachia?