mission of make my trip

MakeMyTrip - How the Company is Making Travels Hassle-Free?

Shubham Kumar , Manisha Mishra

Company Profile is an initiative by StartupTalky to publish verified information on different startups and organizations.

More Indians are now booking tickets and hotels online than ever before. Nothing can beat the comfort of being able to plan a trip from the comfort of your home. You can check out the prices and compare them to get the best out of the deal. A company that holds a major share in the Indian online travel industry is MakeMyTrip. Since 2000, MakeMyTrip is helping millions of Indians book railway tickets, airline tickets, bus tickets, reserve hotel rooms, and buy holiday packages.

Founded in 2000 and headquartered in Gurgaon, Haryana, MakeMyTrip is one of the most popular and dependable Indian travel companies that helps the people of India avail of online travel services that include airline tickets, domestic and international holiday packages, reservations of hotels, railways, and bus tickets.

If you want to know more about MakeMyTrip India, its Founders and Team, Growth, Startup Story, Mission and Vision, Products and Services, and more, then here's the MakeMyTrip success story.

MakeMyTrip - Company Highlights

MakeMyTrip - About MakeMyTrip - Industry MakeMyTrip - Founders and Team MakeMyTrip - Subsidiaries MakeMyTrip - Startup Story MakeMyTrip - Mission and Vision MakeMyTrip - Name, Tagline, and Logo MakeMyTrip - Business Model MakeMyTrip - Revenue Model MakeMyTrip - Product and Services MakeMyTrip - Challenges Faced MakeMyTrip - Funding and Investors MakeMyTrip - Investments MakeMyTrip - Mergers and Acquisitions MakeMyTrip - Growth MakeMyTrip - Partnerships MakeMyTrip - Advertisements and Social Media Campaigns MakeMyTrip - Awards and Achievements MakeMyTrip - Competitors MakeMyTrip - Future Plans

MakeMyTrip - About

India’s leading online travel company, MakeMyTrip, was founded in 2000 by Deep Kalra, Keyur Joshi, Sachin Bhatia and later joined by Rajesh Magow. Headquartered in Gurgaon (Haryana), the company provides online travel services that include flight tickets, domestic and international holiday packages, hotel reservations, and rail and bus tickets.

MakeMyTrip - Industry

The research of the Statista indicates that the travel and tourism sector is expanding favorably. Forecasts for 2023 indicate a strong and promising future with a significant revenue of US $19.86 billion . The projected yearly growth rate between 2023 and 2027 is an outstanding Compound yearly Growth Rate (CAGR) of almost 12.18%, with a projected value of US $31.45 billion by 2027. These figures highlight the industry's strength and point to a continuing upward trend, indicating tremendous potential for consistent growth and a plethora of opportunities in the Travel and Tourism sector going forward.

MakeMyTrip - Founders and Team

Deep Kalra, Keyur Joshi, Rajesh Magow and Sachin Bhatia are the co-founders of MakeMyTrip.

The founder of MakeMyTrip, Deep Kalra, was raised in Hyderabad, attended St. Stephen's College in Delhi for his economics degree, and graduated with an MBA from IIM Ahmedabad in 1992. He left ABN AMRO after three years to work in business development at GE Capital. In the past, he worked with AMF Bowling to bring bowling alleys to India. With the launch of MakeMyTrip in 2000, Kalra revolutionized the Indian travel sector by introducing cutting-edge online services.

As the CEO of MakeMyTrip, Deep Kalra guided the company from its inception till its listing on NASDAQ in August 2010. From August 2013 to February 2020, Kalra functioned as the Group CEO. In February 2020, Deep Kalra stepped down from the post of Group CEO to resume responsibilities as executive chairman of the MakeMyTrip board, while co-founder and current group CEO Rajesh Magow took charge as the Group CEO.

“We believe that separating the roles of Group CEO and Executive Chairman will allow us to focus more on long-term strategic opportunities within and outside India, while maintaining our market-leading position in our existing businesses,” MakeMyTrip owner Deep Kalra commented on his step-down.

Kalra also serves as the vice chairman of Internet and Mobile Association of India. He is one of the founders of Ashoka University and is a part of its governing body. He is also a founding member of " I am Gurgaon" , an NGO.

Rajesh Magow

Rajesh Magow, a co-founder of MakeMyTrip, serves as the company group CEO currently. Magow graduated from the Indian Institute of Chartered Accountants. He began his career with Aptech Ltd. as the Regional Head-ACE North. After thereafter, he joined Ebookers as CFO and Head of Financial Services before joining MakeMyTrip as co-founder, CFO, and COO. Magow has held a number of executive positions within the corporation, including those of Group CEO, COO, and CFO.

Keyur Joshi

Keyur Joshi is the co-founder and Chief Operating Officer (COO) of MakeMyTrip and the Strategic Advisor, roles that he is serving still in the company. Besides this he is also the co-founder of Wildlife Luxuries (I) Pvt. Ltd. The jumpstart of the online travel market in India can largely be attributed to Joshi.

Before MakeMyTrip, Joshi was involved with Around the World Travel (presently known as JustFares.com), and Tata Motors, where he handled the Market Research and Product Management departments. Keyur has obtained a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry from Gujarat University. This was again followed by an MBA degree from the City University of New York, New York. Joshi is also a certified pilot!

Apart from the resignation of Sachin Bhatia, who resigned as the co-founder and CMO of the company, the founding team of MakeMyTrip is intact. Looking at the MakeMyTrip number of employees, the company has been known as a 1,001–5,000 strong organization.

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MakeMyTrip - Subsidiaries

MakeMyTrip Subsidiaries are Ibibo, Easy to Book Holding B.V., ITC Group, Luxury Tours & Travel Pte Limited, Quest2travel.com India Pvt. Ltd., Hotel Travel Ltd., Travis Internet Private Limited, MakeMyTrip (India) Private Limited, and Makemytrip.com Inc.

MakeMyTrip - Startup Story

MakeMyTrip's genesis lies in the entrepreneurial spirit of its founder, Deep Kalra. Initially an experienced banker at ABN AMRO Bank, Kalra felt the urge to break away from the monotony of corporate life and explore new avenues. After three years in the banking sector, he sought challenges beyond the confines of a traditional career. This quest led him to join AMF Bowling, aiming to introduce bowling alleys to India. Despite facing challenges in fundraising and the subsequent failure of this venture, Kalra's determination to run his own business remained unshaken.

Undeterred by setbacks, Kalra found himself at GE Capital, where he gained valuable insights into the potential of the internet. The realization dawned when he successfully sold his wife's car online, sparking the idea that the internet could be a powerful platform for his entrepreneurial aspirations. Acknowledging the vast possibilities, he resigned from GE Capital and ventured into the world of online businesses.

The turning point for MakeMyTrip came during Kalra's research into the tourism sector. Recognizing the inconvenience faced by Indians queuing at ticket counters, he envisioned a solution that would make ticket bookings accessible online. This insight solidified the foundation of MakeMyTrip. While planning a holiday to Thailand, Kalra observed the cost efficiency of direct online bookings and decided to eliminate intermediaries, leading to the official launch of MakeMyTrip in 2000. The platform aimed to simplify ticket bookings and offer competitive prices, marking the beginning of a transformative journey in the online travel industry.

MakeMyTrip - Mission and Vision

MakeMyTrip's mission is to "provide customers a one-stop-shop for all their travel needs." It helps the users get optimum user experience across the entire travel journey, which includes "effective planning resources, superior booking experience across all channels, and in-journey 24x7 live customer support."

At GO-MMT, our vision is to make travel simple and fun for all, and our core values guide us in making this possible. These core values can be seen in the projects that we undertake, and the way in which we solve problems for our customers. They are a representation of OUR BEING & OUR DOING. Each member of the GO-MMT family is guided by them, each and every day, says the company website while stating its vision and values.

MakeMyTrip - Name, Tagline, and Logo

MakeMyTrip's tagline is "Dil toh roaming hai", which the company announced in April 2017.

MakeMyTrip - Business Model

MakeMyTrip lets users book air tickets, bus tickets, buy holiday packages, book hotel accommodations, and hire vehicles. Users can also access other travel-related services, like visa processing and travel insurance, that are provided by third-party vendors. All of these services are available through MakeMyTrip's app, website, or through MakeMyTrip-owned and franchisee-owned stores.

Besides this B2C model, MakeMyTrip has also introduced MyBiz to offer various corporate travel-related services. MyBiz lets businesses easily manage the travel and accommodation of its employees through various features, such as a single dashboard, MyBiz wallet for central payment processing, and instant refunds to myBiz Wallet on cancellations.

MakeMyTrip - Revenue Model

MakeMyTrip's revenue model combines traditional and innovative elements, with a focus on strategic air ticket sales contributing 35% to the total revenue. Complementing this, hotels and holiday packages constitute a substantial around 50% of earnings. The transport segment, led by Red Bus , adds 10% , growing at an impressive 35% annually . MakeMyTrip has expanded its revenue streams by partnering with IRCTC for rail tickets and introducing weekend travels, activities, and events .

Domestic travel takes center stage in revenue generation, with 60% of air ticket revenue and 85–90% of hotel business revenue attributed to domestic travel. This highlights MakeMyTrip's adaptability to regional preferences and solidifies its position as a comprehensive travel solution.

MakeMyTrip - Products and Services

MakeMyTrip Limited is an Indian online travel company founded in 2000. It’s services include air ticketing, hotel and alternative accommodations bookings, holiday planning and packaging, rail ticketing, inter-city bus ticketing, car hire, and ancillary travel requirements such as facilitating access to third-party travel insurance and visa processing.

The company is the industry leader in India's travel sector thanks to its continuous innovation culture and " customer first " strategic focus. This puts it in a unique position to accelerate the online presence of hotels and other lodgings that are largely offline.

MakeMyTrip employs a sizable number of data scientists in their workforce. It makes considerable use of chatbots; Myra for MakeMyTrip and Gia for Goibibo . These chatbots assist with most post-sale inquiries.

MakeMyTrip - Challenges Faced

“The meltdown of dotcom, the exit of venture capital from India, and the 9/11 attacks. By mid-2001, MakeMyTrip were hit by this triple whammy. The next couple of years were the toughest — there were no investors in sight and the company had to shrink the team. But those tough times helped bind the team together. It’s been an incredible journey and the team are thrilled for the possibilities that lie ahead.” said Deep Kalra Founder.

MakeMyTrip celebrated turning 20 in 2020, marking 20 years of assisting customers with travel arrangements. Unfortunately, the worldwide pandemic made it happen during a difficult period. For everyone, traveling was challenging due to the coronavirus. MakeMyTrip used their knowledge to adapt and come up with new ways to assist travelers in spite of this obstacle. The business demonstrated that it could overcome obstacles and remain a leader in the travel sector even in the face of this challenging circumstance.

MakeMyTrip - Funding and Investors

MakeMyTrip has raised $748 mn in over 6 rounds of funding.

Here are the funding details:

MakeMyTrip - Investments

MakeMyTrip has made 7 investments to date. Here's all of them below:

MakeMyTrip Exit

It has exited from two companies, ibibo Group and Inspirock.

MakeMyTrip - Mergers and Acquisitions

MakeMyTrip made 5 acquisitions till date.

The MakeMyTrip fintech arm TripMoney has acquired BookMyForex, an online foreign exchange service provider in India, on April 5, 2022, through the acquisition of the majority stakes in the company.

Here's a look at the list of the companies that MakeMyTrip has acquired:

Some other investments and acquisitions that MakeMyTrip made during its journey till now are:

• In August 2011 , MakeMyTrip (MMT) along with private equity firm Saif Partners, acquired majority stakes in Travenues Technology Private Limited, which owns Ixigo.com. In November 2011 , MMT invested in 'My Guest House Accommodation', a budget lodging and hotel operator.
• In September 2014 , the company instituted a $15 mn innovation fund to support early-stage companies in the travel space. It also acquired MyGola, a travel planning website, in April 2015. The acquisition was done through the innovation fund, and as part of the acquisition, all employees of MyGola were absorbed into the MakeMyTrip team.
• In June 2015 , MakeMyTrip acquired an 18% stake in travel planning startup Inspirock. In July 2015 , it invested in travel information and hotel review portal HolidayIQ to pick up an approximately 30% stake in the latter. In the same month, it also invested $5 mn in BonaVita Technologies, a startup which plans to utilize the funds to build innovative products in the travel industry.

MakeMyTrip - Growth

Starting its journey at the start of the millennium, MakeMyTrip has entirely transformed the ways of travel and bookings and has made the whole process fast, easy, and hassle-free not only for its customers but for the whole country in general. Some of the major growth insights of the company are:

• As of June 2023, MakeMyTrip had 146 active franchisees operating in more than 100 cities
• It has covered 2,000 cities via hotels
• It also has its international offices based in Dubai, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, New York, Singapore, Phuket and Istanbul
• MakeMyTrip has 68 mn+ monthly active users as per its website
• It has 69 mn+ lifetime transacted users
• In the post-pandemic world, the company also claims to help the users get 100% refund on their cancellations

MakeMyTrip saw a notable growth in operating revenue in the fiscal year 2022–2023, with Rs 4,863 crore in FY23, compared to Rs 2,492 crore in FY22. But the business also saw total expenses come to Rs 4,986 crore. In spite of this, the profit/loss margin has improved significantly, with the loss in FY23 dropping to Rs 91.6 crore from Rs 373.6 crore in FY22.

MakeMyTrip - Partnerships

MakeMyTrip, in its 20+ years-long journey, has witnessed numerous partnerships with a whole lot of brands. Here's a glimpse into some of the most important collaborations that MakeMyTrip witnessed in recent years:

• The Indian travel company led by Rajesh Magow was all set to partner with the Ministry of Civil Aviation , as per reports dated November 22, 2021. With this partnership, the popular travel and tourism company was about to ensure the promotion of regional air connectivity via the UDAN scheme. The company planned to power the UDAN flights on the AIRSewa portal and to market the same on its platform as well in order to promote its products and increase visibility and product discovery.
• MakeMyTrip has partnered with IndiGo to launch exclusive charter flights between Mumbai and Phuket in Thailand. The announcement came in on November 10, 2021, where MakeMyTrip, as part of the deal, will ensure end-to-end service assistance, including airport transfers, early check-in and check-out, certificate of entry assistance, premium properties, and more.
• The company entered into a strategic partnership with AmazonPay to offer all-inclusive travel services to Amazon customers that will be enabled by MakeMyTrip and Redbus. This partnership was announced on November 1, 2021.
• The Indian travel major collaborated with Hopper , a leading AI-based travel booking app, on October 14, 2021, which was aimed to help the customers save money with personalized and flexible bookings.

MakeMyTrip - Advertisements and Social Media Campaigns

Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt are the brand ambassadors of the MakeMyTrip company, whom the company roped in on February 17, 2016.

MakeMyTrip Campaign

In an effort to draw in new consumers, MakeMyTrip has unveiled a compelling new campaign with ambassadors Alia Bhatt and Ranveer Singh. The campaign aims to draw attention to the platform's distinct value propositions by showcasing its comprehensive room-specific data. MakeMyTrip aims to present a personalized and all-inclusive travel experience, making it the go-to platform for both luxury and functionality, from the appeal of seaside accommodations to useful facilities.

MakeMyTrip - Awards and Achievements

The list of accolades received by the company is quite long. Here are some of them:

• Great Manager Awards - Companies with Great Manager Award 2022.
• Economic Times - Future Ready Organization Award 2022.
• ET Human Capital Awards - Most Inclusive Companies Index Exemplar 2022.
• Most Inclusive Company Index Study - 100 best companies For Women - 2022.
• Best Travel Innovator - Travel Distribution World Asia Awards (2012).
• Singapore Airlines - Top agents award (2010-2011) ; Top Passenger Agent (2007-08).
• Malaysia airlines - Top Agent Award (2007) ; Top agent award (2009) ; Top agent award (2010).
• Cathay Pacific - Outstanding performance in (2009) ; Outstanding Performance (2007).
• Air Mauritius - All India Top Ten Agent/Top North India Sales Award (2007-08); All India Top Ten Agent/Top North India Sales Award (2006-07).
• British Airways - Outstanding Revenue Contribution (2007-08).
• Lufthansa - Outstanding Performance (2006-07).
• Indian Airlines - Achieving Highest Domestic Passenger Sales (2006-07).
• Kingfisher Airlines - Outstanding Performance (2006-07).
• Jet Airways - Award of Excellence (2005-06).
• Air India - Outstanding Contribution to Passenger Sales (2005-06).

MakeMyTrip - Competitors

The main competitors of MakeMyTrip are:

• Booking.com

MakeMyTrip - Future Plans

MakeMyTrip has declared its intention to grow its franchise company throughout the nation's top 100+ cities as per news report of March 31, 2023. By the end of 2023, the company hopes to have 220 active franchisees, having grown by more than 50%.

The franchise network expansion is part of our broader strategy to serve customers in the top 100+ cities of India. The franchise network will help serve those customers who may be more comfortable talking to someone they trust," said Rajesh Magow Co-Founder.

What is MakeMyTrip?

MakeMyTrip is an online travel company founded by Deep Kalra, Keyur Joshi, and Sachin Bhatia in 2000, who were later joined by Rajesh Magow. The company is headquartered in Gurugram, Haryana and offers online travel services including domestic and international holiday packages, hotel reservations, rail, bus and flight tickets.

Who is MakeMyTrip founder?

Rajesh Magow is the co-founder and Group CEO of MakeMyTrip. Rajesh joined Deep Kalra, Keyur Joshi and Sachin Bhatia, the founders of MakeMyTrip, in 2006.

What are the names of MakeMyTrip subsidiaries?

Which is makemytrip origin country.

MakeMyTrip Limited is an Indian online travel company founded in 2000.

What is the total funding amount raised by MakeMyTrip?

To date (2023), MakeMyTrip raised funding worth $748 mn over 6 rounds.

How much is MakeMyTrip's valuation?

MakeMyTrip was last valued at $2.69 billion, in 2019.

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Mission Trips

Looking for short-term mission trips with everything organized for you? Every year, International Volunteer HQ supports more than 15,000 people to volunteer abroad on mission trips in 40+ countries around the world. Since 2007, IVHQ has helped more than 136,000 volunteers complete mission trips to Africa , Asia , Europe , South America , Central America , North America , the Caribbean , Middle East , and the Pacific .

IVHQ offers safe, social and fully-supported mission trips for teens , college students , families and individuals at any stage of life, as well as for those seeking summer mission trips and medical mission trips . With long-term and short-term mission trips starting at just $20/day including accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support, IVHQ is the world’s leading mission trip organization.

IVHQ offers both short-term and long-term mission trips with durations ranging from 1 to 24 weeks. Through IVHQ, you can choose from a diverse range of volunteer projects to support, inclduing: childcare volunteering , wildlife conservation , environmental conservation , medical volunteering , teaching abroad , and much more. These international volunteer opportunities enable you to support locally-driven projects that uplift under-resourced communities around the world.

If you’re looking to join a mission trip in 2024 or 2025, we’ve outlined IVHQ’s most popular types of mission trips and all the information you need to know to find your perfect mission.

What is a mission trip?

A mission trip is an international volunteering opportunity centered around collaborative efforts with local communities to provide essential support where it is most needed. These trips can be either religious or non-religious in nature, aiming to uplift individuals, local communities, and natural environments across the globe. IVHQ offers inclusive volunteer abroad programs that welcome participants of all ages and life stages.

Through IVHQ’s diverse range of mission trips , individuals can make a tangible impact while fostering new friendships, discovering diverse cultures, and broadening their horizons—all while contributing to the well-being of those who require assistance the most.

Why do people go on mission trips?

Mission trips are a popular way to combine your desire to travel and see with world with your motivation to give back and make a difference in the world. While some people see mission trips as an opportunity to put their faith into action, others go on mission trips for a variety of non-religious reasons, including:

To make a difference: Many people go on mission trips make a positive impact in the world through providing support to communities in a range of different ways. This could involve volunteering to teach English , building schools or homes , providing medical care , volunteering with animals or supporting environmental conservation .

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To meet new people: Mission trips offer an opportunity to connect with people from all around the world. International volunteers work together towards a common goal, often forming life-long friendships and connections along the way.

To get out of your comfort zone : Mission trips are an opportunity to discover a new sense of purpose by stepping out of your comfort zone, discovering new countries and cultures, and living like the locals. This can be equally challenging and rewarding! Taking a mission trip is an opportunity to growth as person, discover your strengths and weaknesses and redefine your purpose in life.

While people go on mission trips for a variety of reasons, at the heart of it is a desire to make a positive impact on the world, connect with others and build a better future together.

I recently returned from a mission trip to Sri Lanka and it was everything I dreamt it would be. I lived with a family in the jungle next to the longest river in the country, volunteering in a disabled childcare center. I was so happy with the project and had a wonderful - and sometimes challenging - experience. I would recommend this mission trip to anyone who wants to travel alone.

How much does it cost to go on a mission trip?

The cost of going on a mission trip varies depending on the destination and duration of the trip. IVHQ makes mission trips accessible to volunteers worldwide through affordable volunteer program fees and flexible durations.

For example, the cost of a 2-week mission trip with IVHQ to Tanzania is US$415, while a 4-week trip to India is US$585. These costs cover accommodation, meals, airport pick-up, and in-country support from IVHQ’s local team.

Additional costs that volunteers need to consider include the IVHQ registration fee , airfares, travel insurance, and any necessary visas or vaccinations. However, IVHQ provides detailed information and support to help volunteers prepare for their mission trip and manage these additional costs.

It’s worth noting that IVHQ also offers a range of fundraising ideas and resources to help volunteers cover the costs of their trip. For example, volunteers can create a fundraising page via IVHQ’s fundraising partner and share it with friends and family to collect donations.

IVHQ’s fees are transparent and inclusive, making it easy for volunteers to plan and budget for their trip without breaking the bank.

Why do a mission trip with IVHQ?

If you’re looking to join a mission trip, you likely have a social or environmental cause in mind that you’d like to contribute to. Just as you place importance on the program you join, it’s equally as important to choose a responsible mission trip organization.

At IVHQ, we believe that mission trips should contribute positively towards society. Environmental and social impact has always been at the heart of what we do, which is why we’ve undergone rigorous assessment to become a Certified B Corporation , holding us to the highest ethical standards. We’re also the first and only global volunteer travel provider to declare a Climate Emergency and our operations are certified as 100% carbon neutral.

With a B Corp stamp of approval , Program Fees starting at just $20/day including accommodation, and more than 16 years of experience , IVHQ is proud to be the mission trip organization of choice for thousands of individuals and groups looking to take a meaningful mission trip in 2024 & 2025.

Best mission trip opportunities across the globe

IVHQ offers a range of meaningful volunteer programs in Tanzania, Zambia, Victoria Falls, Madagascar, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Morocco, Zanzibar and Namibia. Explore Africa’s beauty while conserving endangered wildlife or giving back to local communities in need.

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Available in 10 countries

North America

Join a volunteer program in Mexico or the USA and choose from a range of meaningful projects, from Childcare and Teaching to Animal Care and Environmental Sustainability. IVHQ’s North American volunteer opportunities are based in New Orleans, or in Merida, Mexico.

Available in 2 countries

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Based in the popular destinations of Costa Rica and Guatemala, IVHQ offers a range of impactful volunteer programs in Central America. Support community initiatives, work alongside locals and embrace unique cultural traditions for up to 24 weeks.

South America

IVHQ’s volunteer trips to South America are based in iconic Latin American locations across Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru. With unique opportunities in Teaching, Construction, Wildlife Conservation, Medical, Amazon Jungle Conservation, and more, there’s something to suit every volunteer!

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Middle East

Explore the Middle East on a volunteer trip to Jordan. Choose from a range of community projects such as Youth Support, Women’s Education, Teaching and more. When you’re not giving back, you can explore the Middle East’s unique culture through our exhilarating tours and add-ons.

Available in 1 country

Experience the vibrant culture and welcoming communities of the Pacific on a volunteer trip with IVHQ. Choose from a range of life-enriching programs, from preserving the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and coastal waterways in New Zealand to teaching on the beautiful island of Fiji.

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Find the best mission trip for you

• Teens & High School Students
• College Students
• Summer Trips

Mission trips for teens & high school students

Joining a mission trip is one of the best ways to step outside of your comfort zone, gain new perspective and give back to communities in need. IVHQ offers a range of mission trips for high school students and teens , meaning you don’t need to be 18 to go abroad and make a difference.

Since 2007, IVHQ has supported thousands of young people to volunteer around the world on our youth mission trips. More than 20% of our volunteers are under 20, so we know a thing or two about providing life-changing, reliable travel experiences for young explorers.

We offer safe and affordable volunteer opportunities for teens and high school students in 17 destinations around the globe. Learn more about how to join a mission trip for under 18s .

Top mission trips for teens & high school students:

Volunteer in costa rica.

Volunteer in Guatemala

Volunteer in Tanzania

Mission trips for college students

Today’s student demographic is more progressive than ever before. That’s why student mission trips have become a popular alternative to studying abroad. Instead of studying abroad, many are opting for a more meaningful form of international travel - one that is regenerative and makes a positive impact on local communities.

IVHQ offers mission trips for college students in more than 40 countries around the world. Our mission trips to Africa are particularly popular amongst students. With fees starting at just US$20 per day, our low-cost mission trips are an affordable way for students and young professionals to discover a new country and gain a global perspective while making the world a better place.

When you go on a mission trip with IVHQ, you also have the opportunity to gain academic credit while you volunteer from as little as US$599 for 5 credits - making a super affordable alternative to studying abroad!

Top mission trips for college students:

Volunteer in peru.

Volunteer in Victoria Falls

Volunteer in Zambia

Mission trips for families

Planning a family mission trip can be a challenge, especially if you’re trying to accommodate multiple age groups. IVHQ’s fully-hosted mission trips mean that you can get away and make a difference without having to coordinate and plan for the entire family. The best part? Lots of IVHQ programs offer private room and accommodation upgrades at a very affordable price!

If you have young children, IVHQ has great options that will give you quality time together while instilling the values of service. Family mission trip opportunities are available in Africa , Asia , Europe , Central America and South America .

Our team of Volunteer Travel Experts can provide you with personalized family mission trip recommendations to match your budget and the causes you care about. Learn more about how you can go on a mission trip as a family .

Top mission trips for families:

Volunteer in kenya.

Volunteer in Portugal

Best short-term mission trips

IVHQ offers short-term mission trips for 1 to 3 weeks in over 40 countries, starting at just $20 per day including accommodation . This means you can get away and experience a new culture without needing to take ample time away from your day-to-day priorities.

Our short-term mission trips are designed for those who want to maximize impact in a short period of time and are perfect for students and professionals who are looking to take an alternative break . With everything organized for you, including airport pickup and 24/7 in-country support, you can hit the ground running as soon as you arrive at your destination. Check out our top short-term mission trips for 2024 & 2025:

Top short-term mission trips:

Volunteer in croatia.

Volunteer in Ghana

Volunteer in Mexico

Best summer mission trips

Summer is one of the most popular times of year to go on a mission trip, allowing you to immerse yourself in a new culture and interact with locals while soaking up the sunshine. With time off from work and school, it’s the perfect opportunity to see the world and make a difference alongside like-minded people.

Whether you have a desire to volunteer abroad with animals or want to find a medical volunteer program , check out these top summer mission trips for 2024 & 2025 .

Top summer mission trips:

Volunteer in puerto rico.

Volunteer in South Africa

Volunteer in Zanzibar

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More than a Christian Mission Trip.

Come grow with god, love others, and make a difference in the world., world race mission trips, gap year mission trips, semesters mission trips, featured videos, world racer blogs, mission trip fundraising.

WHAT IS A WORLD RACE MISSION TRIP?

The World Race is a life-changing mission trip where you will learn to seek first the kingdom of God, so you can experience a deeper life with Jesus, live in authentic community, serve others and share the love of Jesus. Not just on this mission trip, but for the rest of your life.

“Through the World Race, everything that Christ talked about can be experienced every single day.” – Colleen Widmaier | World Race alumna

Get $350 of Merch when you commit to ANY trip.

Take advantage of this limited time offer to get $350 worth of sweet World Race merchandise! There’s never been a better time to apply for the World Race, sign up and get your merch today!

A JOURNEY INTO A DEEPER LIFE.

Jesus took His disciples on a three-year journey of mission trips to prepare them to carry out His mission for the rest of their lives. In the same way, our desire is to prepare you to seek first the Kingdom of God for the rest of your life.

World Race Mission Trips Christian Outreach to Communities Around the Globe

You have a heart for the Gospel. We have opportunities designed to help you answer God’s call.

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How to Partner with Us!

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See Reviews From Past Mission Trips

Shanan Zavocki

Through this program, I experienced enough outward encouragement to propel my inward desire forward, and I’ve learned more fully how much my walk with God is truly a relationship and not a routine. God used the World Race to change my life. And He could use it to change your life, too.

Drew Davidson

I loved my time on the Race! Doing World Race Gap Year opened my eyes and heart to more of who Jesus is. There were endless opportunities to see Him move through and in me over my time on the field! I became more confident in who He has called me to be and experienced a deeper hunger for Jesus.

Ellie Miller

On the Race I learned what it looked like to have consistent character through refinement by the holy spirit and the community around me. I was pushed to greater dependence on the father through living out ministry as a lifestyle, not simply a mission trip.

Madison Goodwin

I’m getting to live out revival on a daily basis through teaching, preaching, evangelizing, ministering to the lost. Everything I do is important because it’s important for the Kingdom’s work.

Morgan McCrary

The World Race Gap Year held some of the most challenging months of my life but also some of the most life giving! Before I went on Gap Year I thought I knew Jesus, but after living as a missionary for 7 months, I quickly realized that there was so much more to learn!

Matt Chisenhall

Being a Christian isn’t just about going to church on Sunday morning, but it’s about following God every day and being Obedient to him in every situation and every single day we have the opportunity todo that on the World Race.

Stories from the mission field

Family Is Kingdom | Connor Gaul – World Racer

Posted 12/04/2018.

One Second Everyday for 11 Months! | Krista Booker -World Racer

Posted 11/05/2019.

WHY I GO | Lauren Munson – World Racer

Posted 07/24/2019, see reviews by:, world race updates.

Unveiling the Transformative Power of Mission Work

Cultivating Spiritual Depth: Nurturing Your Relationship with God on the World Race

The Power of Global Community: Forging Lifelong Connections on the World Race

Month 1: Exploring Indigenous Guatemala

BY LINDSEY CROWN | AUG 28, 2021

Snapshots of the DR

BY JENNIFER PARIS | JUN 18, 2021

A Day in the Life (Makarios in the Dominican Republic- World Race 2021)

BY KATIE HAMMOND | MAY 29, 2021

World Race Gap Year: Serving with the Dunamis Foundation

BY ELLIE ZELLER APR 23, 2021

Leaving Our Mark in Costa Rica | World Race in Jaco, Costa Rica

BY MICAH TORGERSON MAR 21, 2021

World Race Gap Year: Dear Day 1 Racer..

BY ELLIE ZELLER MAR 12, 2021

You’re at a pivotal point in your life. You want to be who God created you to be and make the right steps that will impact the rest of your life. You’re not alone!

That’s why we created our World Race Semesters Opportunities. We have sent over 132,000 people on mission trips all over the world. The World Race has helped them begin to live in the calling God has for them.

Here are 3 next steps you can take to get to know us and help you select your mission trip.

Why We Love The World Race

Want to go on a mission trip but not sure which one? Learn why you should do a mission trip with us.

21 Day Devotional

Ask an Alumni

The World Race sounds pretty awesome, right? So what’s stopping you? Here are the most common concerns we hear:

Yeah, it sounds like a lot. We’ve led thousands of people on this journey of fundraising, and even though it’s hard work, it’s totally possible. We’ll guide you through the process! Don’t let this fear stop you from pursuing the Lord’s oall on your life!

Each World Race program is priced separately according to the trip and route; you can find the price of each trip by visiting the “Trips” page .

We encourage Racers to connect with a community of supporters for both prayer and financial support. We understand raising money can be intimidating, so we have Admissions Advisors committed to help you through the support raising process. (For more information, Fundraising 101 .)

If you’re worried about finances, don’t be. Over the years, we’ve learned time and time again when God calls, He provides. Still concerned? Check out this video for Our Top 5 Favorite Ways to Fundraise .

Yeah, we’ve heard that too! And sometimes, it can be true. We’re committed to doing mission trips well. In truth, both the long-term missionary and the short-term mission team bring a gift to the throne of our Lord. Long-term missionaries bring direction. Short-term missionaries bring velocity. Often our long-term partners are greatly encouraged by the infusion of life and resources into their ministry that short-term teams bring. It is the person with a long-term commitment to a community who plants a church and disciples its members. The relationships and vision they provide are essential. They are like the rudder on the ship, providing direction, steering the course. Short-term missionaries can be the wind in the sails which give velocity and thrust to the enterprise. They bring with them resources, a prayer base, and tremendous enthusiasm.

Check out this two-part series on the case for short term missions:

Part 1 Part 2

There is an online application process for all our World Race programs. Once you’ve submitted an application and paid the $49 fee, you can select your trip and route preference and schedule a phone interview.

We prayerfully review applications and look forward to learning more about you during the phone interview. By completing this interview, you are not committing to participate in a World Race program. However, as you complete these steps, it will help you decide if the Race is for you.

If accepted, you will secure your spot with a deposit, which also serves as your first donation.

After committing to a route, you’ll be connected with an Admissions Advisor. All of our Advisors on staff are alumni Racers, and their job is to help you with the planning, fundraising, and logistical information you need to prepare to go.

Yes! We do accept international applicants. However, due to the many obstacles including increased cost and complex, varying visa requirements, non-US applicants must coordinate additional logistics, including travel to and from Training Camp, and visas for each destination country.

All trip fees and charges must be paid in US dollars and tax deductions are only available for US residents. Non-US applicants must be fluent in English. Contact us for more details and to determine if you are eligible to apply.

Each day on the World Race looks a little different. Some days will be packed full with construction, VBS, evangelism outreach, relationship building, or praying for the sick. Some days could be slower –shopping for groceries at the market or spending time in prayer for the community and ministry.

Check out the World Race vlog. In this 13 episode vlog, we follow a World Race squad around the world. See first hand what it’s like to be on the World Race.

Regardless of the pace or the activity, every day will be focused on being a part of God’s Kingdom work. Just Contact Us and we’d be happy to share our stories about life on the Race!

The World Race is a program of the interdenominational mission organization Adventures in Missions (Also known as Adventures).

Our staff and leaders come from a wide range of Christian churches and denominations. Read our statement of beliefs for a deeper look at what we believe.

With the different backgrounds of our staff, our Racers, and the ministry partners we serve alongside, you will most likely experience worship styles, Bible teachings, and Christian community different than you’ve previously experienced. We encourage you to dig into Scripture and have ongoing conversations about these things. We love this picture of the body of Christ coming together, united in purpose to bring Jesus to the nations.

We recognize travel brings risk. We have worked hard to put extensive safety protocols in place. But, all Racers need to consider things happen that we can’t predict. People get sick and accidents happen. It is likely you will meet people suffering from a variety of diseases.

To address the issues we face, we have an experienced risk management team. They monitor political, health, weather, and other risks in the regions where we serve. This information includes the U.S. State Department travel warnings. All Racers have a travel insurance policy. The insurance company works closely with us to ensure you will receive the care you need. For more information about the insurance policy, click here .

We have external consultants who assist us in designing and managing our training and field implementation for safety protocols. Our internal risk management team creates contingency plans as needed so we are ready to move teams quickly if the need arises. We also have an extensive network of ministry partners and ministry connections worldwide who provide us with “eyes on the ground” as we assess situations.

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Mission Trip Planning Toolkit

Whether you’re getting ready for your first mission trip, or you’ve participated in many trips, it’s important to be prepared. This toolkit guides you through the mission trip planning process and equips you with tools to use on your trip and after you come home. Resources include travel tips, devotions, fundraising advice, cultural awareness training, and more.

Looking for help with mission trip planning during the pandemic?

Preparing your team, mission trip planning checklist.

Use this checklist to stay on schedule while planning your mission trip.

Read this section

Meetings you should have before your mission trip.

Six pre-trip meetings your team should have and a suggested agenda for each one.

Mission Trip Team Building Activities

Building strong relationships with the people on your mission trip team is an important part of trip preparation. Here are some ideas for building trust.

Mission Trip Skills Survey Template [Download]

This editable skills survey template can help you get a sense of the gifts and abilities your mission trip team has so that you know the ways you’re equipped to serve together.

Download the survey template

Connecting mission with faith, spiritual preparation for your mission trip.

Here are some steps you can take as a team to prepare spiritually for your mission experience.

Devotions and Bible Study Suggestions

Mission trip devotions (including a set you can read on Faithward for free ) and suggestions for group and personal devotional time during your mission trip.

Mission Trip Prayer Journal [Downloadable Template]

Download and print prayer booklets for your mission trip team to use for prayer, reflection, and devotions during your mission trip.

Download for free

How to foster lasting spiritual growth.

Advice for cultivating spiritual growth on your mission trip that impacts people’s faith after they come home.

Fundraising and budgeting

Mission trip fundraising ideas.

Creative ideas to help you and your team raise support for your mission trip.

How to Write a Mission Trip Fundraising Letter

This step-by-step guide shows you how to write a fundraising letter from start to finish and includes a sample letter.

Making Your Mission Trip Budget

A breakdown of costs you may need to account for in your mission trip budget.

Travel and culture

How to prepare for cross-cultural experiences.

Strategies, resources, and activities to help you and your team increase your cultural awareness and agility before your trip.

How to be a Good Guest on Short-term Mission Trips

Follow these tips to be a hospitable guest to the community hosting you.

Travel Safety and Packing Tips

Guidance on what you should pack and how to travel safely for trips within North America and internationally.

Church participation

How to involve your church in your trip.

Your church may not all be on your trip with you, but there are ways that members can participate.

Coming home from your trip

Mission trip team debriefing guide.

How to process your mission trip during the trip, at the end of the trip, and after you come home.

How to Share Your Mission Trip Experience

Suggestions for sharing your mission trip experience with your church, friends, and family.

Want more mission trip planning support?

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Mission Trips: 1-12 Weeks

How might God use you if you took a step of faith to engage with His mission somewhere in the world? Cru offers many kinds of mission trips for college and high school students, working adults and families. Get out to the world! You can help make a huge impact in the lives of a person close to home or far away in a completely different culture or among people who still haven't heard the name of Jesus.

Summer Missions

Do something extraordinary this summer: Impact a community, a workplace or the world!

Jesus Film Missions

Using the power of media in ministry, you can help reach every tribe and touchscreen.  

Study Abroad

Make the most of your college education by carrying the gospel to the nations while you study abroad.  

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Interested in working with younger people and impacting local schools?

High School Gap Year

Take a break before going to college and make an impact around the world.

Athletic Missions

Choose a mission trip focused on introducing athletes to the gospel.

Inner City Missions

Do you want to deepen your relationship with God as you have an impact on one of our great cities?  

Humanitarian Trips

Unto® humanitarian trips express the kindness of Jesus to people living in the toughest places on earth.

Other Opportunities

Choose where you want to serve. Find mission opportunities for individuals and families, or focus on your area of expertise.

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Get all the information you need about our mission trips and what your group can expect as they serve on mission with Praying Pelican.

Deepen your youth mission trip by doing ministry built on genuine partnerships, long term relationships, and sustainable ministry.

College students are looking for a place to make a meaningful impact. Amplify that impact by partnering alongside a local church.

Our customizable mission trips allow each person on your team of adults to find a place to serve, regardless of their interests or skills.

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Want to transform a community by supporting a church leader?

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Latest PPM365 Updates

Francis Githinji

Kenya | March 7, 2024

Kenya | February 15, 2024

Kenya | February 8, 2024

Kenya | January 23, 2024

Luis Carlos Armas Vascones

Peru - Amazon | October 28, 2023

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Hawaii: Maui Wildfires

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Disaster Response (Indian Lake Tornado)

Extreme Tornado in Elkhorn, Nebraska

Disaster Response (Omaha Tornadoes)

When disasters strike, the Church is on the front lines of response and relief efforts, working with local authorities and organizing grassroots efforts to meet the pressing needs of their communities.

Follow along with teams as they serve in disaster areas around the world, and also read about the experiences of past teams who have served in those areas through Praying Pelican Missions. Our disaster trip journals are a great way to stay connected with those support teams as they work locally and internationally to offer encouragement and assist the local Church in what might be their greatest time of need!

trip journals

Mission Trip Journals

Follow along with teams as they go on mission, and read about the experiences of past teams who have served with Praying Pelican.

Recent Trip Journals

CBCA Senior Trip 2024

Florida | April 23, 2024

Southeast Christian School

Belize | April 24, 2024

Free Pentecostal Fellowship in Kenya

Kenya | April 26, 2024

Comunidad Cristiana El Sembrador

Baja California, Mexico | April 26, 2024

Iglesia Rosa de Saron

Nicaragua | April 27, 2024

Rivers Crossing Global

Guatemala | April 28, 2024

• Seven Keys of Preparation for Your Mission Trip

1. Flexibility

When going to serve on a mission trip, flexibility is required. Plans change, time is relative, and God is ultimately in control. Be flexible and understanding.

2. Humility 

Humility is key to successfully serving on a mission trip. You need heaps and bounds of it. Prepare your heart and ensure you are ready to serve alongside and under your local partner, listening to their needs and guidance. 

3. Get ready to work

Those people answering the call to GO have to be ready to answer the call to WORK. Come ready to sweat, to work, to be sore, to be tired - to serve.

4. It’s not a vacation 

If your reason for going is to go sightseeing, take cute pictures with people of a different culture, smile with kiddos, and buy souvenirs… then go on a vacation. If your reason for going is to win souls for Jesus and serve the local church - go on a mission trip!

5. Know the plan of salvation

The goal of missionaries is to see people come to know Jesus and start down the path of discpleship.  Make sure you know how to present the Gospel to the people you will be coming into contact with. Even if you aren’t fluent in the language, it’s okay, just know where to start in sharing about Jesus and trust the translators on staff with you. Know the Word… even without the Bible in hand.

Take hints from the culture - For example, you shouldn’t go up to a person in Chicago with a huge Bible in hand and prepare to have a 30 minute conversation with them. Nope. You need to go up to them and be prepared to share Christ with them and get their contact info within 5 minutes -  the culture is fast paced.

6. Partnership

If you are going to work with a church or a community in another place, stay in touch with them. Encourage the people you are working with before, during, and after the mission trip. Tell them you are praying for them, and then actually do it! Even if you never go back to that exact location, be committed to pray for the people in the long-term.

7. LOVE the people you are serving

This is the key. If you truly love the people you are serving and the team you are serving with, you will be willing to do everything listed above. When you see people how the Lord sees them, your heart grows tender and you want to do whatever it takes for them to know and follow hard after Jesus.

To see the beauty in all people – the dark eyes and captivating accents of the Costa Ricans. The joy and mystery in a Belizean smile. The busy-ness and craving for hope in a Chicago city subway station. The sense independence and adventure in a city like Miami. The richness of culture and history of people in South Africa.  The grace and beauty in faces of the people in Haiti.

There’s so much beauty. If we choose to see that beauty, it spurs us to love. If we truly love people… there’s nothing we won’t do. Once our hearts are engaged in the personal calling to missions… we’re hooked.

So, let’s go. Let’s love. Let’s serve. Let’s partner. Let’s be flexible and learn from others’ wisdom. Let’s share Jesus. Let’s live life – in our schools, work, home, travel – with the end in mind. 

Mission Trip Resources

Before your mission trip.

• Five Roles to Recruit for Your Mission Team
• Five Steps for Your Call to Missions
• Five Ways Your Group Will Grow on a Mission Trip
• Four Reasons Your Church Should Invest in Missions
• Fundraising Ideas for Your Team Mission Trip
• Group Travel Communication Tips
• Group Travel Tips
• How To: Promote Your Next Mission Trip
• How to: Hosting Missions Team Meetings
• How to: Mission Trip Support Letters
• How to: Recruiting Your Missions Team
• I'm NOT Going on This Mission Trip - What Now?
• Individual Bibles Studies Before You Go On Your Mission Trip
• Individual Mission Trip Fundraising Ideas
• Mission Trip Fundraising Tips
• One Week of Group Mission Trip Devotionals
• Options to Think Through Before Your Next Mission Trip
• Packing Tips
• Sample Mission Trip Commitment Letter
• Sample Mission Trip Packing List
• Sample Mission Trip Support Letters
• Sample Mission Trip VBS Outline and Tips!
• Seven Reasons You Should Go on a Short-Term Mission Trip
• Ten Tips for Cultural Sensitivity
• Three Basic Principles for a Life Changing Mission Trip
• Three Ways to Prepare for Your Mission Trip
• Tips for Sharing Your Testimony
• What NOT to Pack On Your Mission Trip
• Why Partnering Local Matters
• Will My Mission Trip Change Me?
• Your Travel Checklist

During Your Mission Trip

• Connecting with Your Local Pastor
• Five Tips to Debrief Well Each Evening of Your Mission Trip
• Mission Trip Clothing Guidelines
• Photography Etiquette on Mission Trips
• Physical Giving and Donations
• Serving With Dignity
• Staying Healthy On Your Mission Trip
• Staying Safe During Your Mission Trip

After Your Mission Trip

• Five Ways to Support Missionary Friends For Free
• Four Ways to Support Local Ministries
• Keeping Your Missions Partnership Healthy
• Living the Pelican Life
• The Mission Trip is Over - Now What?
• The Missions Truth Burden

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LATEST TRIP JOURNALS

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INTERNATIONAL

Our customizable mission trips allow each person on your team of adults to find a place to serve, regardless of their interest or skills.

Africa's many countries boast a wide array of beauty, culture and needs. Destinations include Kenya and South Africa.

Serve with Praying Pelican across the Caribbean—locations include Haiti, Jamaica, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, the Bahamas, and Puerto Rico.

Serve with Praying Pelican across the Central America—locations include Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica.

This is your opportunity to serve alongside a local church and experience God in a different culture—from Belize, to Cuba, to South Africa and beyond.

From our hometown of Minneapolis to the island of Puerto Rico, USA mission trips are diverse in service opportunities, cultural experiences, and community needs.

Coronavirus Update Learn more

01582 720056

Why You Should Go on a Mission Trip: What’s Their Purpose?

Posted: 8th June 2020

The term ‘missionary’ refers to someone of the Christian faith travelling to other parts of the world, to spread the word of God and show His ways through the good deeds performed in His name.

Mission trips are a lot more relaxed these days when it comes to the religious element, however, their goals and values usually stay true to the history.

Volunteer mission trips in the 21 st century are shorter, with more emphasis on undertaking a long term commitment to uplifting communities. Modern mission projects are executed in a shorter time frame and use practical methods to improve the living standards of the affected communities.

What’s the purpose of a mission trip?

Many mission trips focus on building projects – such as housing, schools or clinics where volunteers work to introduce vital infrastructure to people who may never had access to them before. Other mission trips could focus on social issues and ways to resolve them, such as our partnership with 25Zero, where we tackle the issue of Ugandan girls missing school because of their period .

However, the true focus of any mission trip is to spread love and compassion to those you encounter. Sometimes, that may be as simple as really listening to the everyday problems people have to endure and reminding them of the undying love God has for them.

Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer, or you’re considering taking your first mission trip, we’d like to share some of the reasons this is truly a meaningful way for you to make a lifelong impact on many, many people.

Why should you go on a mission trip?

Most mission trips are run as Christian organisations, but factoring out religion entirely, the Samaritan aspect is the real driving force behind our two-week volunteer trips. A mission trip (whether abroad or local) is a great way to meet new friends and make lifelong connections, with people who hold the same values and morals as you. It’s also a wonderful chance to expand local networks of volunteers who you can call on if you ever find a local community that needs your help.

Women, children and the elderly are some of the most vulnerable and susceptible members of any community, more so in areas affected by disease and a sever lack of government funding. Volunteering on a mission trip that focuses on building infrastructure – such as hospitals, clinics and schools helps to uplift these people, and future generations.

Whether it’s through providing young girls with an education they would otherwise not have received – thus empowering them to uplift themselves out of the poverty cycle – or providing a safe and clean clinic to women where they can have access to life saving medicines that, before, may never have been available – your participation will always have far reaching impact that may well change the lives of others forever.

While a two-week mission trip may seem like a very short time out of your life, you should know that the difference a team of dedicated Christian volunteers can make in that time truly is life changing for so many people. The sense of belonging the beneficiaries will feel, the improved living standards they will have and the knowledge that you were part of making that change is a feeling to be cherished for the rest of your life.

During your two-week trip, you’ll get to experience some down time where you have the opportunity to visit historical sites, and really get to know your host country and the struggles they have faced before. This richness in knowledge is something you won’t soon forget. Our mission trips span the world, so whether you want to help people in Sierra Leone to rebuild the SAIO school after the devastation of Ebola and the Regent Mudslide, or you’re more inclined to want to visit Brazil where the mission trips focus on uplifting the thousands of people living in slums or favelas, you really can see the world and make it a trip to remember.

Aside from the generosity, kindness and faith-based lessons you’re bound to impart on your fellow volunteers and future friends, there’s no doubt that a mission trip will open your eyes to the privilege of a house to call a home, a school to send your children to and food to eat every day.

There’s so much more to a mission trip than meets the eye. Read our testimonial impact stories for first-hand accounts of how Mission Direct’s charity mission trips have made impactful differences to volunteers and beneficiaries alike.

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Why Do People Go on Mission Trips?

Over 1.5 million citizens of the United States go on a short-term mission trip every year. That’s a lot of people! And, mission trips aren’t just something you randomly decide to squeeze into your schedule. They take lots of prayer, time, and money to make happen. So, why are so many people each year choosing to make the sacrifices and go on a mission trip? Because it’s worth it. 

Forming Relationships with Christians Around the World

One of the most significant benefits of participating in a short-term mission trip is the opportunity to form meaningful relationships with fellow Christians from around the world. Mission trips often involve visiting churches, communities, and organizations in foreign countries, where participants can connect with local believers. It is astonishing to be able to see the power of the gospel unite followers from completely different cultures. Even though Christians can live in completely different places with different customs and traditions, Jesus gives them so much to have in common. 

Meeting people from diverse backgrounds and witnessing their faith firsthand can be a profoundly enriching experience. It allows participants to gain a deeper understanding of the global body of Christ and fosters a sense of unity among believers. Such relationships often last long after the mission trip ends, providing a lasting connection and support system across continents.

Fulfilling God’s Commandments

Short-term mission trips provide an avenue to fulfill the commandments of Jesus, who urged his followers to love their neighbors and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 22:39, Matthew 28:19-20). These trips embody the Great Commission , offering a practical way to share the message of Christ with people in need.

By reaching out to faraway communities, mission trip participants actively spread the gospel and offer hope to those who may have never heard the Good News. This act of obedience to Christ’s commandments not only impacts the lives of those served but also deepens the faith and commitment of the individuals who undertake the journey.

Feeling Convicted

Another compelling reason people choose to go on mission trips is the desire to respond to the needs of hurting individuals and communities. Whether it’s providing medical care in underserved areas, assisting with disaster relief , or supporting orphanages and schools , mission trips offer a tangible way to make a positive impact on the lives of those facing adversity.

Many individuals are motivated by a sense of conviction, a deep inner calling to address the suffering and injustices they witness in the world. This conviction drives them to take action , and mission trips provide a structured and organized platform to channel their compassion and commitment into meaningful change.

Personal Transformation

Perhaps one of the most profound aspects of participating in a short-term mission trip is the transformation it brings about in the volunteers themselves. While the primary purpose may be to serve others, participants often find that they are equally transformed by the experience.

Stepping out of one’s comfort zone and immersing oneself in a different culture can be a profoundly humbling and eye-opening experience. It challenges preconceived notions, broadens perspectives, and deepens empathy. Many individuals return from mission trips with a heightened sense of gratitude , a renewed faith, and a stronger desire to make a positive impact in their communities.

This personal growth experienced on a mission trip often extends beyond the individual. When the volunteer returns home family and friends typically notice their loved one’s transformation, and they want to be a part of that as well. 

Growing Closer to Christ

A big part of that personal transformation is growing closer to Christ. By following Him into communities that He is already present in and partnering with Him in the work He is already doing, mission trip volunteers get to see the power of Christ in a way like none other. Volunteers not only get to hear testimonies of God’s faithfulness over and over again throughout their mission trip, but in times of stepping out of their comfort zone, they are also forced to lean on Him in new ways. 

In a world that can sometimes seem divided and disconnected, short-term mission trips offer a powerful counter-narrative of unity, compassion, and transformation. The decision to go on a mission trip is never made lightly, as it requires considerable dedication in terms of time, money, and prayer . However, the rewards far outweigh the sacrifices.

Mission trips enable participants to form lasting relationships with Christians worldwide, fulfill God’s commandments, respond to the needs of hurting people, and undergo personal transformation. These experiences not only impact the lives of those served but also leave a mark on the hearts and minds of those who go on these journeys.

So, if you’ve ever considered going on a mission trip or are wondering why so many choose to do so, remember this: It’s about more than just a trip; it’s about making a meaningful difference in the world and being transformed in the process. Ultimately, the decision to go on a mission trip is a testament to the enduring power of faith, compassion, and the belief that, indeed, it’s worth it.

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The Mission Trip That Changed My Life

Mission trips are a life-changing experience, regardless of your background. Each trip is different and that's what makes them special. For my spring break, I went to Belize with a group from Reformed University Fellowship (RUF) at my school. This was my fourth mission trip and is was my favorite by far.

Going into this trip, I held little to no knowledge about the culture or even the location of Belize. Right off the plane, delicious food and famous watermelon juice greeted us. Imagine eating three homemade meals every day for a week. Can the women who cooked for us please come live with me in Dallas? I am barely getting by with the Easy Mac!

The team was told that we would be doing “light construction.” That consisted of balancing on wood that was five feet in the air and putting rocks in cinder blocks. We were building Sunday school rooms and transporting sand in wheel barrels under the scorching sun. I never sweated so much in my life!

Bring on the kids! While we were taking a break from the “light construction,” we had the opportunity to play with the children from the school we also worked with. On every mission trip that I have gone on, it is always the kids who pull the string on my heart. Their sweet smiles will forever be embedded in my mind and the intriguing stories that they have to tell are priceless.

For mission trips, you have to   earn   fun time. Upon doing so, we got fried in the sun a bit. It felt as if we were in paradise, despite the hard work that we put in that week. Who else can say that they swam with (and touched) sharks with their friends? Also, I swam with a sea turtle! Who casually does that? SMU RUF does! I also lost count of the amount of ice cream that was consumed and the stories that were told around the eating table.

As I commented earlier, this was my fourth mission trip and I quite can’t put my finger on what made it so extraordinary. One thing that made the Belize trip different is that I went with a group of people who I had literally just met and I did not know much about their backgrounds. All of my other trips were with my mom who kept up with my spending money and people who I’d known my whole life.

Building lifelong friendships Part of what made the trip so special was that we did not know each other’s talents or backgrounds going into it. I now have lifelong friendships that started with a simple conversation. I made a friend who has awesome photography skills and another one who lived in my shoes growing up in a single-parent household. The others on this team are all facing similar events in life and handle relatable challenges at Southern Methodist University (SMU). We were able to laugh at ourselves and learn from each of our mistakes. We had to learn the culture and work methods of those in Belize. If the people in control did not like the work that you were doing, they would take over. Also, is it not culturally correct for a woman to work, so all of us girls did a lot of talking to the children and taking a ton of photos to prove that we actually did some work.

We created a dozen or so hashtags during our trip including #unBELIZEable, which I think is very original. Now, if any of those phrases are said for any reason, I am reminded of the unbelievable time that I had with this mission team.

Starting off the week, our team was given the phrase, “Sometimes we need to drop the shovel and do something else.” This would consist of pausing our rock hauling and helping one of the students with their homework or talking to one of the workers to understand how they live their lives. This wasn’t just for people who lived in the village, but also within our team. I was able to grow stronger in my faith alongside my new friends and we have continued to grow, even after the trip was completed.

Saying goodbye For me, the last day was and will always be difficult. It is the time when goodbyes are said and you're trying to make your last memories with the people who relationships were created with. I befriended a little girl and when I told her goodbye, she asked if we were coming back the following day. Unfortunately, I had to inform her that it was our last day in the village. I could see in her eyes that she was sad that we couldn’t have another day together. Yet, what she said next gave me hope and peace. She replied with, “You will be back one day.” That absolutely tore my heart to pieces. It was astonishing that this child was able to comprehend that we would be together again, even if it was years from now. It made me sad, watching her get on the school bus to head home, but I was overwhelmed with joy when she looked back with a huge smile on her face, waving one last time.

That little girl will forever hold a huge part of my heart. Even if it was less than a week, she changed my life in ways that no SMU student, ministry leader, or people from home could ever do. She showed me what bravery and hope look like. She is the reason why, when I walked into my dorm room at midnight after enduring a six-hour flight delay, I started to sob. I wasn’t back to reality for five minutes and I was in culture shock. I walked into a beautiful room filled with photos of people who I love and paintings made by people who love me and I wondered, "What does that little girl go home to?"

I don’t want you to only know about what my mission team did in Belize, but know that it changed many lives, including mine. We made an impact on the workers who were determined to finish those Sunday schools. We spread love to all of the children and planted seeds that will continue to grow until we come back.

Mollie Mayfield is a journalism student at Southern Methodist University.  

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Leading Youth with Humility

Church of the Redeemer in Monroe, N.C., invests in its youth and global missions through annual short-term mission trips.

Give thanks for those who participated in short-term missions this summer. Pray that God would continue to encourage them toward missions. 

Pray for participants going on short-term missions this summer, that God would use the trip to encourage, strengthen relationships, and build a foundations for missions.

Pray that God will give churches a vision to invest in their youth by taking short-term mission trips. Pray that youth would grasp a heart for missions as a result.

Pray for those who God is calling to missions, that God would clarify their call, and equip them to serve Him.

Pray for students considering going on summer trips and internships as they make decisions. 

Pray for college students to participate in global missions. Pray that they would a catch a vision for missions that would stay with them long term.

Pray for those returning from mission trips to stay engaged with missions. 

Pray for those going on mission trips this spring and summer as they raise finanical support and prepare for their trip.

Pray for Freedom Ministries arm of MTW's work in Cambodia, providing a home for girls and young women rescued from trafficking. Pray that the girls who don't yet know Christ come to know Him.

Pray for God's grace for missionaries as they seek to be an example of love and hospitality to their neighbors while facing ongoing stressors of life.

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My hybrid church 

Opinion Rick Burnette  |  April 29, 2024

Let me tell you about my church.

My church meets every Friday from noon until around 6:30 p.m. My church has no pews but plenty of folding tables and chairs as well as boxes and bins filled with groceries. My church is led by a Guatemalan-born preacher, Pastor Miguel, who starts the weekly time of service with announcements, introductions and prayer.

Each week, my church has several regulars and about 400 visitors. My church doesn’t usually offer Communion in the form of bread and wine. Instead, we provide those hundreds of visitors with two or three bags of groceries, including rice and beans and canned goods along with fresh, locally grown produce and donated bread.

Rick Burnette

At my church, tongues are spoken , including Kreyol, Spanish, English and Mayan dialects. Visitors often come in worn-out work shoes and torn clothing covered with the green stain of tomato vines. Extremely hungry, tired and traumatized people aren’t expected to be cheerful at my church.

Misión Peniel isn’t officially a church. At least not yet. Although a farmworker ministry, it seems like a church to many. We are a faith community that gathers regularly to glorify God through interaction with Immokalee’s marginalized.

Ellen and I moved back to the States in 2013, after representing CBF Global Missions and another international nonprofit among Asian farming communities for 19 years. However, I wasn’t in my element at the nonprofit’s Florida headquarters.

One Sunday at church, we watched an interview featuring Sojourners’ Jim Wallis. I can’t recall his exact words, but Wallis stressed the essential spiritual practice of being in the presence of the poor.

He helped me understand why I wasn’t thriving. Despite working with an effective organization and being involved in a church, I was experiencing withdrawal from my previous interaction with those who struggle to access critical resources.

The church we attended was a partner of Misión Peniel, a farmworker ministry of the Peace River Presbytery — PC(USA) — in the town of Immokalee, Fla. Immokalee is where most of America’s wintertime tomatoes are grown on vast farms and harvested by migrant farmworkers. Ironically, the community is a food desert.

After a stint of volunteering at Misión Peniel, Ellen and I felt led to engage in full-time ministry to help address Immokalee’s food insecurity. This calling led to the establishment of our nonprofit, Cultivate Abundance.

In partnership with Misión Peniel and dozens of local gardeners, churches and small farms, we grow, collect and share nutritious food of cultural preference for Immokalee’s Haitian, Guatemalan and Mexican residents. Cultivate Abundance became a CBF Global Missions Engagement Partner after I was re-appointed as field personnel in 2018.

Our work was just hitting stride when COVID-19 emerged. With fewer volunteers, the Cultivate Abundance team began to assist Misión Peniel with Friday food distribution. Weekly efforts to pack and share hundreds of bags of food became our routine.

Rick Burnette (blue shirt) observes a line of people waiting to enter Misión Peniel.

Despite social distancing, we got to know the regular clients, including some who struggle with addictions, mental health challenges and other pain. Sadly, one of the pandemic casualties was our involvement with the church that introduced us to Misión Peniel.

For a while it was weird not to attend Sunday services. As the pandemic abated, we began to reengage with distant CBF churches in Florida and beyond. But we gradually realized church isn’t necessarily Sunday mornings among pews and stained glass. Through Misión Peniel, we are engaged in a less conventional version of church, a hybrid of sorts.

In the pandemic’s aftermath, amid a shifting ecclesiastical landscape, I think Misión Peniel represents one of many manifestations of the church.

I understand should anyone assert, “Misión Peniel is not a church. It’s a ministry established by churches, operating off the support of churches.” But what if the essence of church isn’t so dualistic? Perhaps the reality of church is more liminal and fuzzier than conventionally thought.

Not to limit discussion to nonprofits or ministries such as Misión Peniel, let’s also consider long established, conventional but struggling congregations in transitional communities where demographics, economy and culture are in flux.

“The adoption of neighborly, welcoming and collaborative approaches to address community issues could breathe new life and purpose into stalled, struggling congregations.”

Imagine churches with dwindling enrollments and budgets (or not), mustering the wherewithal to take inventory of local needs through purposeful conversations among members, neighbors and other community stakeholders. With such feedback, worshiping communities would be better positioned to project a witness for Christ through effective partnerships for positive change.

The adoption of neighborly, welcoming and collaborative approaches to address community issues could breathe new life and purpose into stalled, struggling congregations, especially if they embrace the presence of the vulnerable. Faith-based nonprofits also might consider accommodating local needs for worship and pastoral care.

Communion table with cross at Misión Peniel.

I envision hybrid ministries, whether in church or nonprofit form, to be malleable, ecumenical and nimble, based on shifting local needs and the availability of resources. For example, Misión Peniel facilitates the collaborative use of space among compatible ministries to serve local youth. And whenever possible, worship opportunities also are provided.

Thank God for robust congregations with the means to address felt needs, both near and far. Many are well equipped to serve as allies and encouragers for hybrid ministries struggling to serve their challenged communities.

We must not forget that hybrid communities of worship and service aren’t new. The apostles had their hands full feeding the widows, and the Salvation Army has been at it for a long time as well.

Among Baptists, I’ve observed Grace and Main’s worshiping and serving presence among the unhoused of Danville, Va. I was inspired into action by the “farm with a church” ministry offered by Englewood Baptist on the outskirts of Kansas City. I also have participated in the ministry of Heritage Baptist in rural Heflin, Ala.  These are just a few.

In obedience to the Great Commandment, while in solidarity with the marginalized, I’m sure more hybrid ministries will emerge across the landscape.

Rick and Ellen Burnette served as field personnel with the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship in northern Thailand from 1994 until 2009. They established the Upland Holistic Development Project, a ministry that continues to offer services related to agriculture and community development among hill tribe minority groups along the Thai-Myanmar border. In 2009, the Burnettes established and directed an international office for ECHO, a Florida-based international development agency, until their return to the U.S. in 2013 to work at ECHO’s Fort Myers headquarters. In 2017, the Burnettes established Cultivate Abundance, a nonprofit that addresses food insecurity among migrant farmworkers in Southwest Florida with Ellen serving as executive director. Rick was reappointed by CBF Global Missions as field personnel in 2018, continuing his role as the nonprofit’s program and technical director with Cultivate Abundance being recognized as a CBF Global Missions Engagement Partner.  

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Politics latest: Yousaf quits as Scotland's first minister

Humza Yousaf has announced his resignation as SNP leader and Scotland's first minister ahead of facing two votes of no confidence for ending the SNP's powersharing agreement with the Scottish Greens.

Monday 29 April 2024 12:23, UK

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Humza Yousaf gave an emotional end to his resignation announcement.

"I bear no ill will and certainly no grudge against anyone. Politics can be a brutal business," he says.

"It takes its toll on your physical and mental health. Your family suffer alongside you."

Becoming emotional, he adds: "I am in absolute debt to my wonderful wife, my beautiful children and my wider family for putting up with me over the years.

"I'm afraid you'll be seeing a lot more of me from now. You are truly everything to me."

Mr Yousaf continues: "I am so grateful. I'm so blessed for having the opportunity afforded to so few to lead my country, and who could ask for a better country to lead than Scotland? Thank you very much."

Mr Yousaf says he is "incredibly proud" to have a "fair tax system", which he hails as "the most progressive in the UK".

"I've always been guided by my values," he says. 

"As first minister, I'm incredibly proud to have a fair tax system, the most progressive in the UK. 

"But those who earn the most, contribute the most, and it will always be my core belief that a country as rich as ours wealth must be far more evenly distributed." 

He added he has "no doubt at all" that whoever takes over "will continue the Scottish government's drive to reduce child poverty".

"I'm proud that through our actions, an estimated 100,000 children are expected to be lifted out of poverty this year," he claimed.

He also said he will "continue to champion… the rights and the voices of those who are not often heard", including those suffering the "most horrific humanitarian catastrophe" in Gaza.

Humza Yousaf says he is stepping down at a time when Scottish independence "feels frustratingly close".

"As the world watches on, let me say to my SNP family, I will always be with you," he says.

"I will always campaign alongside you. We have had setbacks in our movement, but we have overcome them, and we will do so again.

"Independence feels frustratingly close. Believe me, no one feels that frustration more than the leader of the SNP.

"For the last few miles of the marathon are always the hardest, and we have run this race as a team and I now will prepare to pass the baton to a successor who I'm absolutely certain will lead us over the finish line."

Giving a message to his successor, Mr Yousaf says: "First ministers get to meet countless inspirational people and communities across Scotland working to make life better for those around them.

"First ministers get to see first-hand many of the exciting businesses and industries that will power Scotland's future.

"And whenever first ministers set foot beyond Scotland's shores, no matter where they go in Europe or across the world, they encounter friends and admirers of our nation.

"If only every person in Scotland can be afforded the opportunity of being first minister for just one day on the very next day. It's my belief that they would vote for independence with both their head and their heart."

Humza Yousaf announces he will continue as first minister until his successor is elected.

He says he "clearly underestimated the level of hurt and upset" he had caused his colleagues in the Green Party by ending the powersharing agreement between the SNP and the Greens.

"For a minority government to be able to govern effectively and efficiently, trust when working with the opposition is clearly fundamental," he says.

"And while a route through this week's motion of no confidence was absolutely possible, I am not willing to treat my values and principles or do deals with whomever simply for retaining power."

He said he after a weekend of reflection, he'd concluded "repairing a relationship across the political divide can only be done with someone else at the helm".

Mr Yousaf adds: "I have therefore informed the SNP's National Secretary of my intention to stand down as party leader and ask that she commence a leadership contest as soon as possible.

"In order to ensure a smooth and orderly transition, it is my intention to continue as first minister until my successor has been elected."

Humza Yousaf has said he will resign as SNP leader and Scotland's first minister.

Mr Yousaf had previously said he would not resign, and he intended to win the confidence votes.

He was fighting for his political future after ending the powersharing deal between the SNP and Scottish Greens on Thursday.

He was facing two votes of no confidence - one from the Scottish Conservatives, and another from Scottish Labour, which has tabled one for the Scottish government as a whole.

Scotland's First Minister Humza Yousaf is just about to hold a press conference at Bute House, his official residence in Edinburgh.

Mr Yousaf is expected to resign as first minister of Scotland.

You can watch his announcement in the stream above.

The Scottish Conservatives have "forced Humza Yousaf out of office for repeatedly failing Scotland", the party's leader has said.

The Scottish Tories had tabled a motion of no confidence in the first minister.

Douglas Ross said: "Faced with our vote of no confidence, the SNP leader has quit rather than face a humiliating defeat."

While he stressed that "on a personal level, I wish Humza Yousaf and his family well", he added his party "cannot forgive the damage he did to families and households across Scotland by raising taxes, letting NHS waiting lists spiral and attacking free speech".

Mr Ross added: "The next first minister must abandon the nationalist obsession with independence and focus solely on Scotland's top priorities, such as creating jobs and improving our ailing public services."

Scotland's First Minister Humza Yousaf could be set to announce his resignation at a news conference in half an hour's time.

The SNP leader triggered a crisis at Holyrood after he dramatically brought the power-sharing deal with the Scottish Greens to an end.

The backlash plunged Mr Yousaf's future into doubt.

How did we get here?

The Bute House Agreement - signed back in 2021 and named after the first minister's official residence in Edinburgh - brought the Green Party into government for the first time anywhere in the UK.

It gave the SNP a majority at Holyrood when the votes of its MSPs were combined with those of the seven Green members, and also made Green co-leaders Patrick Harvie and Lorna Slater junior ministers.

Without it, the SNP would need to have operated as a minority administration at Holyrood.

What caused the relationship to sour?

There had been mounting tensions between the largest party at Holyrood and their junior partners in government.

The Greens were angered at the SNP-led administration's recent decision to ditch a key climate change target.

That, combined with the decision to pause the prescription of new puberty blockers to under-18s at Scotland's only gender clinic, resulted in the Greens announcing they would have a vote on the future of the power-sharing deal. 

What brought things to a head?

Mr Yousaf decided to pull the plug on the agreement - arguing it had "served its purpose" - prompting a major fallout with his former allies, who vowed to back a no-confidence motion in his leadership proposed by Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross.

Scotland's First Minister Humza Yousaf has arrived at Bute House, his official residence in Edinburgh, ahead of a news conference on his political future at midday.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has said the situation with Humza Yousaf and the SNP in Scotland is "absolute chaos" as he called for a "fresh start".

Sir Keir said: "I despair at the situation in Scotland. It's absolute chaos now from the Scottish parliament, from the SNP. So you've got chaos in the Scottish parliament, chaos in the Westminster parliament."

He said the Scottish people have been "fundamentally let down" and "all the SNP can offer is chaos".

He added: "We've got to turn the page on this now - we need that general election and a fresh start."

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