mission trips for high school students 2023

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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 .

To gain a new perspective: Traveling to a new country and immersing yourself in a different culture can be a life-changing and transformative experience. Mission trips allow you to see the world with fresh eyes and gain a better understanding of different cultures and ways of life.

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.

Available in 11 countries

IVHQ offers volunteer programs in 15 incredible destinations across Asia, including Bali, Cambodia, China, India, Laos, Nepal, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam. Discover new cultures and play a hands-on role in supporting local social and environmental projects.

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

Central America

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!

Available in 6 countries

IVHQ’s Caribbean volunteer opportunities are based in and around the stunning islands of Jamaica, Belize, Trinidad and Tobago, and Puerto Rico. Give back to the local community through Teaching, Marine Conservation, Childcare, Animal Care and other impact led volunteer projects.

Available in 4 countries

Discover Europe’s rich culture and history on a volunteer program in Portugal, Spain, Italy, Greece, Romania or Croatia. Choose from a range of meaningful projects including Wolf Conservation, Youth Support, Teaching, Childcare, Special Needs Support, Environmental Scuba Diving and more.

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.

Available in 3 countries

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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Ambassador – Mission Trips For Teens

Experience firsthand the voice of God, serve others in high -need ministries, and make a real, tangible difference in the lives of others!

AGE RANGE:   14 – 18 LENGTH :   2 – 4 WEEKS

Ambassador might be a good fit for you if:

• You have a strong desire for an intimate relationship with Jesus
• You want to live an epic story

The Ambassador Program is designed specifically for high school students with a high appetite for spiritual growth and a desire to get more involved in missions.

Upcoming Ambassador Mission Trips

Ready to book trips:, god has a plan for your life that’s daring yet good., ready to take the leap.

It’s anything but safe, yet it’s completely safe, because it’s right smack dab in the middle of His plan for your life.

It’s the kind of calling that spreads a love that changes things forever.

And it’s this kind of Kingdom bringing awesomeness that makes Jesus famous among the nations. Maybe you’re being called to share this kind of love with a hurting world.

Are you ready to make a difference? It’s time!

LETTER TO PARENTS

While your son or daughter may believe they are the only ones setting out on this adventure, we know you are also on a journey! Sending your son or daughter on a mission trip, away from home and possibly to the other side of the world, is likely an exercise in faith for you, too.

We believe in your kids and the impact they can make around the world. And we believe in you. We believe in the calling God has given you to help your student navigate through this world.

We’ve put together this Parent Packet to introduce you to Adventures in Missions and our Ambassador program, as well as connect you with our Parent Ministry department!

We hope this will answer some common questions you may have. Our admissions staff is available to talk with you about any further questions or concerns. We are excited to walk you through the next steps to get your students to the field! Blessings,

Ambassador Staff

More questions? Call our main office at (770) 983-1060

Click here to read our parent packet

Ambassador trips are 2 – 4 weeks, depending on location.

Ministry looks different on every trip we offer. You can check out the trip descriptions to get an idea of what ministry might look like in each country. We believe ministry is a way of life, not just a daily assignment to complete. Some of your ministry is determined by asking the Lord what He is calling your team to specifically. You may see a need we don’t even know exists—and we want you to have the freedom to meet that need!

And remember, the most impactful ministry you’re a part of might be the relationship you build with your translator or the vendors at the market where you buy groceries. Or it could be with your trek guide while you climb a volcano in Guatemala or the safari driver in Swaziland.

If you come with an open mind about what God has for you, you won’t be disappointed!

Training Camp is the first 3 days of your trip. You will fly/drive to Gainesville, GA (where the Adventures in Missions headquarters is located) on the first day of your trip. Those flying will meet in the Atlanta airport and be shuttled to our headquarters. You’ll be there for 3 days of training, team building, and preparing for your trip spiritually, physically, and emotionally. It’s fun, we promise! By the time you leave for the field, you’ll feel like you’ve known your leaders and teammates for months instead of days.

Debrief is a time to reflect on what God has done in your life, your teammates’ lives, and the lives of those you met on your trip. Your team will have a short debrief in country led by your leaders; then you will fly back to Atlanta for one night and stay in a local hotel.

During this debrief time, you will have the opportunity to share what God has done on your trip with the Ambassador staff. We love to hear your stories! At the end of debrief in Atlanta, you will fly/drive back to your home.

NOTE: Training Camp and Debrief are included in the dates of your trip.

The heartbeat of Adventures is simple: deeply connecting to Jesus and His movement. We want to go where He leads and join in whatever He is doing.

The primary way we do this is through discipleship, following the model Jesus used while He walked the earth: raising up disciples to make disciples. Every student on an Ambassador trip is encouraged and mentored in their faith, all while they do the same in ministry. They are discipled while on their own journey.

At a time when students are growing in and forming their faith, this is an opportunity for students to discover how real God is, to freely ask questions about their faith, and to explore God’s calling for their lives, all while serving a hurting world and living out the Gospel. We want to equip them in servant leadership and missional living for their return to their churches, schools, and even their homes.

The cost of the trip includes airfare from Atlanta,GA to/from your ministry country, housing, meals, and the cost of any ministry opportunities while in country. In addition to the trip cost, you will need to raise funds to cover the cost of a required medical insurance plan through MissionSafe. The estimated cost of this plan is $3.82 per day for trips less than six months and will be included in your overall fundraising goal.

Fundraising Goal = Trip Cost + Insurance

Additional costs may include your passport, luggage and visa fees (if needed), and transportation from your home to/from Atlanta, GA, etc.

You’ll find more information about support raising on your profile once you apply.

We are not doctors and are not qualified from a medical perspective to say you should or should not get certain shots. We suggest you determine which shots you may need by visiting the CDC website or consulting your local travel health specialist and reviewing their recommendations based on the country(ies) you will be visiting. Pay particular attention to countries requiring a Yellow Fever Certificate to enter. You may or may not choose to receive all the immunizations recommended by the CDC or your physician. It is your personal decision what immunizations you receive, but we recommend you seek a medical professional’s advice concerning this decision.

Be prepared for food that may be outside of your comfort zone. You will be fed three meals a day and you are expected to eat what is prepared for you, even if you may not prefer it.

At Training Camp, you will sleep on mattresses. On the field, you may sleep in a tent, on the floor, in a bed, or in a hammock. Bring a sleeping bag and a pillow. Trip specifics will be posted on your team blog.

Yes, but it may not be in a traditional shower. You will have access to water, but you may not be able to bathe on a daily basis, and it might be from a bucket.

You may or may not have electricity at your location, so please leave the flat irons and hairdryers at home.

You will have designated times throughout the trip to access a phone and/or the internet (depending on your location), and your trip leaders will have phone access for emergencies, so there is no reason for you to need calling or texting abilities. While there will be opportunity to use your phone for pictures, you will need to use an alternative device for an alarm clock, music, etc as you will have limited access to your phone throughout the trip.

Please evaluate your reasons for bringing phones or electronic devices on this trip. You are on the trip to minister to others, to serve God, and develop a deeper relationship with God. Phones and other electronic devices may be a distraction to what God is trying to tell you. We ask that you make wise choices with the music you listen to and play out loud while on the trip. If a smartphone is used outside of times specified or becomes distracting, it could be confiscated by a leader until the end of the trip.

That being said, we also realize phones can also be great ministry tools! We want you to take pictures and video of your trip. And don’t forget to tag them with #goAMB and #adventuresinmissions when you post them to social media. Please note: Adventures is not responsible for any lost, stolen, or damaged electronic devices. No laptops allowed.

How much money you will want depends entirely on your personal spending habits and financial situation. A moderate amount would be approximately $100. Remember, all your meals will be covered by Adventures so extra personal money would be used for souvenirs, extra internet time (if applicable), personal items, additional snacks, etc.

It is important to remember when you are on the field ministering, you represent God, Adventures in Missions, and local missionaries. Modesty is the key to all clothing you decide to bring with you. If you are questioning whether or not you should bring it, then leave it at home.

Here are a few guidelines for clothing choices:

• Bring something modest to sleep in.
• No short, tight, or clingy clothing is permitted. Wear one size larger in tops to ensure your shirt is not too tight.
• No sleeveless shirts or tank tops are permitted for girls or guys.
• If you cannot raise your arms above your head or touch your toes without showing your stomach or lower back, leave it at home.
• Shorts must come to the top of the knee.
• Skirts and dresses should be below or close to the knee. Depending on location, skirts should be to the ankle.
• Bring a one-piece swim suit and think modest. Guys, normal swim trunks should be fine. Girls, be prepared to wear shorts and a shirt over your swimsuit. NOTE: a tankini is two pieces, even if it is a modest one!
• Men need long pants in most cultural situations.
• Make sure clothes are not stained and/or torn. You do not have to wear your best clothing but make yourself presentable. It may be offensive to the locals if you look sloppy.
• Bring clothes for church services. Boys should bring khakis pants and a collared shirt. Girls should bring skirts below the knee and loose blouses.
• Bring closed toed shoes for ministry opportunities. You may bring flip-flops, Chacos, or other shoes for recreation time.

Depending on your location and the cultural norms, we may need to adjust the dress code. In some countries it will be necessary for women to be in long skirts all the time. Some cultures view men in shorts as little boys and you will not receive the respect of an adult.

Any tattoos or piercings may need to be covered at times if it offensive to the cultures or ministries. Your leaders will let you know this when you get in country. You may be asked to cover the tattoo or take the piercings out while involved in ministry.

You will be able to hand wash your clothes. Please bring small travel laundry packets for laundry. Be prepared to wear your clothes more than one day between washing.

Yes, but the times and methods will depend on the location of your trip and how long you are on-site in the country. Internet access is not available in every country.

For information on applying for a passport for the first time, visit this  website  or make an appointment at your local post office. Generally, it takes approximately 4 – 6 weeks from the time of application for you to receive your passport. We must have your passport information before airline tickets are purchased, so please get your passport ASAP. Sometimes it may take longer than 6 weeks to receive your passport, so apply now.

Once your plane arrives and you have claimed your luggage, please meet Adventures in the center Atrium on the main level of the Atlanta Airport. You will be met at the Atlanta Airport by Adventures staff wearing the Adventures in Missions staff T-shirt at the Clock Tower. Upon arrival, we also ask that you contact your parents to let them know you have arrived safely. You can use a staff member’s (or your leader’s) phone if you have left your phone at home.

You may be dropped off in Gainesville, but you may not leave your car at our office for the length of your trip. If you are dropped off in Gainesville, you need to be picked up in Atlanta after debrief. Your team will not be transported back to Gainesville after your trip.

No, we are not able to provide any financial assistance, but you can raise support to cover the costs of your trip.

We require all participants to send a support letter once they are accepted to our programs. The support letter is used to help you raise financial support and build a prayer team. The reality is God has called you to serve Him and you can be sure God will always provide what you need to accomplish the things He calls you to do.

We at Adventures In Missions take the responsibility and care of our participants very seriously.

The reality is the world can be an unsafe place. That truth is not limited to overseas travel. While we cannot guarantee safety, safety and security is a top priority for our programs. We set protocols to minimize risk while expanding each student’s exploration of God’s Kingdom.

Our staff monitors safety concerns and issues around the world, including organized protests, political uprisings, medical alerts, and natural disasters. We maintain active communication with our international contacts and will change locations if we believe the risk level in an area is no longer appropriate for our participants.

Generally, leaders are 21 years old or older. Most have led or participated in previous Adventures trips in the past and all have gone through leader training with us. We perform background checks on all leaders prior to their acceptance. A target of 6 students to 1 leader is what we desire for Ambassador trips.

Some examples of past Ambassador leaders include Adventures staff, prior Ambassador leaders, and Semesters and World Race alumni who exemplify desired leadership qualities.

A desire for your son or daughter to succeed

Our desire is for this trip to be the best possible experience for your child. Our core values exist because we want to see every student reach their fullest potential. Our leaders are committed to investing in each of the participants. As staff, we read the blog posts, pray for the teams regularly, rejoice in their victories, and mourn in their losses. While we may only spend a short time with them, we care for and believe in them and in their potential!

Communication

We are committed to keeping you informed in case of an emergency. Should your child become seriously sick or involved an accident, you will be notified as soon as possible. In the case of an emergency in country (such as a natural disaster), the team leader will update us as soon as possible and we will communicate information to you.

Should you need to get in touch with your child in case of an emergency at home, you can reach us at 770-983-1060.

Emergency Travel Arrangements

On rare occasions, a participant may need to return home early. Reasons include but are not limited to: sickness on the field that needs to be treated at home, an emergency at home requiring the participant’s return, or a participant’s inability or unwillingness to engage with the team or ministry on the field. (Please note, MissionSafe must be involved in all medical related travel needs.) Whether an early return is voluntary or not, we will communicate with you to arrange travel plans and rebook flights as necessary.

You will find an Ambassador Parent Packet and other resources at adventures.org/parents

Are you interested in leading this generation of high school students, to serve with us through encouraging, empowering, and equipping teenagers for life both on and off the mission field?

Qualifications

• Integrity, spiritual maturity, and passion for high schoolers
• Attend an additional 3-day Leadership Training right before your trip
• Previous leadership/missions experience

Application Process

All leaders will fill out an application, submit references, and go through a phone interview. Once accepted, in addition to the Spring Leader Retreat, you will be required to attend an Adventures Leadership Training a few days prior to the launch of the trip you are leading.

To apply: email   [email protected]

Will you share the love and hope of Christ in a world hungry for Him?

Make a difference today.

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Group Mission Trips

Domestic and international mission trips.

We create short-term, domestic and international mission trips for youth and adults. Experience the transformation that happens on our short-term mission trips when you serve communities across the world and put your faith in action!

High-energy environments for serving people in need through home repair while Jesus radically transforms lives.

Starting at $298

Meaningful community service alongside strong local ministries and nonprofit organizations who ensure your impact continues long term.

Starting at $849

Cross-cultural service gives youth groups the opportunity to gain new perspective while serving people in need around the world.

Starting from $498

Starting from $298

New for 2024! Workcamp now has a more flexible option for you called Workcamps FLEX. It has all the outstanding elements of our Workcamp Classic but at a more affordable price, allowing you more flexibility in what you eat and where you sleep.

Short-Term Missions.

Long-term impact..

Group Mission Trips creates the perfect environment for youth and adults to build relationships and make a long-term impact while serving on short-term mission trips across the world.

“I have been taking High School aged youth on mission trips for approximately 20 years. Over the last 12 years I have used GMT. They are by far the best I have used. Their programing is Christ centered and thought provoking.”

Terry O'Hanlon

Workcamp Attendee

“Been on Group Mission Trips for about 15 years! It is a tremendous program and gets kids (and adults!) to participate actively in the expansion of God's Kingdom. The leadership, administration, and staff have been wonderful for each experience. My youth group (as well as myself) have been blessed continually throughout the years!”

“Summer 2019 was my first experience with GMT. I took a group of high schoolers to a South Dakota for home repair on a reservation, and a group of middle + high schoolers to Denver. Both trips were very organized and communication with staff was wonderful! We are excited to use Group again this year! ”

Emily Pearce

Workcamp Participant

“Group Mission Trips provides everything you need to have an amazing, life-changing service experience! Their professional, caring staff is there to guide you in every step of the process.... ”

Beth Taylor

“I've been on 6 mission trips with this organization and I have grown so much because of these experiences. I can not say enough good things about this company! Thank you Group Mission Trips! ”

Sydney Lewis

“One single review cannot describe the life-changing experience that can be had with GMT. Taking middle school and high school kids to an experience that is outside of 'normal' for most kids, helping revitalize communities, and meet people outside their current home and social media bubble is priceless... ”

Brian Anderson

“ I always found the trips well organized and managed, with staff that were dedicated to serving the community hosting the Workcamp, as well as the growth of the youth involved. Having seen the positive outcomes for all involved, I sought out opportunities to continue my involvement with Group Mission Trips after my son graduated from high school.”

Marvin Rasch

“I have worked with Group Mission Trips since the early 90s. Each and every summer it is such a blessing to serve others and help in various communities. There have been so many life changing events over the years. I would definitely recommend Group Mission Trips to others... ”

Phyllis Looker

“I attended workcamps as a youth and now all these years later my son gets to attend. I couldn't be happier with Group Mission Trips and the safe environment and Christ filled programming.

He and other teens with the help of two adults were able to build this amazing switchback wheelchair ramp in just 4.5 days!

What a blessing to the homeowner but more than that, the kids seemed to really connect to each other, and their resident.”

Ann Hardwood

Residents are helped, communities are strengthened, and lives are changed.

Accreditations & Memberships

Why Group Mission Trips?

Since Group Mission Trips’ beginning in 1990, more than 500,000 mission trip participants have racked up more than 15 million volunteer hours serving people in need. Thousands of lives and communities have been impacted and transformed through our domestic and international mission trips. Group Mission Trips creates the perfect environment for youth and adults to build relationships and make a long-term impact while serving on short-term mission trips across the world.

Organization

Our team organizes your service projects and the details of your mission trip experience so you don’t have to. Stress-free and hassle-free is the way it should be.

Safety is our number one priority, as we're sure it is yours. We require all staff and adult volunteers to have background checks, limit the adult to student ratios, and many more on our list of safety procedures that can be found in our FAQ sections.

You're not alone in the planning process. In fact, our all-star mission trip advisors will help you with all the details to plan your next mission trip and provide personalized communication and details specific to your mission trip.

Sustainable Partnerships

We believe the best way to serve on a mission trip is to partner with local ministries, organizations, and individuals already embedded in each community. We come alongside their ministries and provide support for their sustainable year-round programs.

When you go on a mission trip with Group Mission Trips, you’ll have a trained staff who will be your liaison and coordinators of all details while you're serving.

Customization

Have a specific need? We're always happy to customize mission trips for you and your group. We understand each group has specific needs, and our mission trips advisors are here to help accommodate you.

Safety is our number one priority, as we're sure it is yours. Our team stays up to date with all travel advisories and the latest international news to ensure all safety measures are taken.

When you go on a mission trip with Group Mission Trips, you’ll have a designated trip leader with your group who will be your liaison and coordinator of all details while you're serving.

Don't see a date that works for you? We're always happy to customize mission trips for you and your group. We've customized trips for individuals, families, school groups, sports teams, dance teams, companies, youth groups, and more.

Want to help?

There are many opportunities to get involved! We have summer positions for college-aged students with the potential to make up to $6k and hundreds of volunteer and leadership opportunities.

We're all influenced by the people around us through news, music, work, school, sports, and basically anywhere we direct our attention. This year's program is designed to help students navigate the many influences in their lives and encourage them to look toward Jesus, the greatest influencer of all time, so they use their influence to positively change their culture. Romans 12:2

With Your Help

More than 500,000 mission trip participants have racked up more than 15 million volunteer hours serving people in need. Thousands of lives and communities have been impacted and transformed.

RECEIVE OUR 2024 CATALOG!

What’s inside:

• Full list of 2024 locations
• New Workcamp Flex trips
• Who is Group Mission Trips and what makes us unique
• An exclusive reveal of the 2024 program theme
• A comparison of our 4 trip types
• Helpful information on payment policy, typical days, and more 

We may communicate with you about the information you've requested and other Group Mission Trip services. The use of your information is governed by Group Cares  Privacy Policy.

• Find A Mission Trip
• Find a Resource
• SERVE Mission Trips
• 2024 Trip Locations
• Register for SERVE
• SERVE Resources
• Online Training
• Youth Group Curriculum
• Mentoring Networks
• Church Giving Resources
• Golf Outing
• Staff and Board
• Stories (Blog)
• Find a Mission Trip

SERVE Mission Trips for Teens With all your heart, soul, mind, and strength, Go SERVE

• Sign Me Up!

SERVE Youth Mission Trips for Groups

SERVE is typically a one-week mission trip for teens in the United States or Canada that introduces middle school (Grades 6-8) or high school (Grades 9-12) students to spreading the gospel through missional living and confronting issues of justice. Each all-inclusive missions trip experience is planned with individual and corporate benefit in mind. SERVE provides hands-on service that is people-focused, giving SERVE trips a very personal and long-term impact.

The week typically starts with fun teambuilding and get-to-know-you activities. Each workday starts with morning devotions before teams go off to their work sites, where the emphasis is to connect with the people you are serving and share God’s love. Every night the students are led in worship and the speaker for the week brings a message related to the theme. These sessions are challenging and faith-building. Each evening also includes free time for games, sports, or hanging out with new friends. One day of the week is a ‘Day Away’ where everybody has a fun day off together at the beach, local theme park, cottage, or local attraction.  You can find more information about SERVE in our FAQ section here .

• See our current Trip Locations

SERVE is not just a week-long summer youth mission trip. It’s about a transformation that lasts a lifetime!

Where will you serve, (choose a youth mission trip type below).

High School Mission Trips

High School SERVE mission trips are week-long (7 day) mission experiences open to students who have completed grade 8 through graduating seniors. The community-focused environment of SERVE encourages students’ passion for their own congregation and community, so the impact of SERVE continues long after the high school students return home.

Middle School Mission Trips

Middle school sites are not available for SERVE 2024.  If you’re interested in hosting a future middle school SERVE site, please contact us!

Middle School SERVE mission trips are shorter mission experiences open to students who have completed grade 6 through students who have completed grade 8.

Custom SERVE

Looking for a special trip during fall, winter, or spring break for just your students? A custom SERVE site can be designed to build unity, provide discipleship, and create shared service opportunities for a sending church youth group. Custom SERVE sites allow adult leaders to oversee their own students for small group interaction and worksite assignments. Contact ThereforeGo Ministries and let us partner with you to create a custom SERVE experience!

• FAQs About SERVE

“How wonderful would it be if all teenagers at some point during their high school years could travel on a SERVE mission trip and get a clearer understanding of God’s purpose for their life sooner, rather than later?”

Youth leader of a serve mission trip, browse serve trips.

• All Locations Eastern Canada  (6) Mid West USA  (6) North East USA  (1) South East USA  (2) Western Canada  (1) Western USA  (4)
• All Dates August  (3) July  (15) June  (4)
• All Trip Types High School  (19) Middle School/High School  (1)

Go or Host?

Youth group mission trips.

Mission trips and other faith-forming experiences are proven to be the #1 way to keep teens active in the church and growing in their faith . SERVE youth mission trips for teens are  all-inclusive, 5-7 day service trips for Middle School or High School students . The students  go into communities in the USA and Canada  to care for and restore their world in an environment where they’ll encounter the concepts of justice and missional living. More than just a week-long short-term mission trip over the summer, SERVE is a faith-forming experience where the communities, congregations, and students who are involved  all  experience lasting transformation.

Impact of Hosting a Teen Mission Trip

Students on SERVE mission trips are helping to transform communities and congregations across North America (think of them as domestic mission trips). Together, ThereforeGo and local churches work together to share the love of Jesus Christ with those in our own backyards. SERVE is more than just a week-long missions trip for teens ; these young adults will walk away with an experience that will have a long-term impact on your local community and the people that live, work, and worship in them. We can use help hosting  youth group mission trips in 2024 .

“SERVE started a momentum in our congregation that is like a mini revival. I’ll have to determine how to make the most of it throughout the rest of the year.”

Get a FREE copy of the Complete Guide to Planning a Youth Mission Trip . This complete guide will help make you plan your youth mission trip from beginning to end! Get The Free eBook

for SERVE Mission Trips

How much does a serve mission trip cost.

SERVE mission trips for teens cost $400 USD if online paperwork is completed by April 1. Everything is included except transportation. Between April 1 and April 15 a $25 late fee is applied.  After April 15, the late fee increases to $50. Not ready to pay? That’s okay. The final payment isn’t due until May 1.

*Some sites vary slightly in price based on different lengths of experience. Choose a trip location and check its description to find out more!

Find a mission trip destination here »

Who can participate (ex. how old do you have to be)?

We get this question a lot: “How old do you have to be to go on mission trips with ThereforeGo?”

High School SERVE Mission Trips : Any student who has completed grade 8 through graduating seniors in the same year as the SERVE mission experience.

Middle School SERVE Mission Trips : Any student who has completed grades 6 through 8 in the same year as the SERVE mission experience.

Adult Leaders : Adult leaders must be 21 years or older.  Due to insurance and liability stipulations, Adult Leaders cannot bring babies or children under the required age for any SERVE mission experience.  Adult Leaders are required to complete and submit a current background check to the ThereforeGo Ministries office.  See more information under the question “What are adult leader expectations (and how many are needed)?”

Do I have to be in a youth group or can I come by myself? Our current SERVE model does not accommodate individual participants. For more information  contact us .

How do I find a mission trip?

Find SERVE mission trip locations here on our trip locations page .

When choosing a mission trip, we recommend taking the following factors into consideration.

• Dates : It’s important to figure out what dates work for your church and the largest number of people in your youth group.
• Location : Do you want to drive? Are you willing to fly? Transportation can be one of the most complex factors to a mission trip so it is important to factor in how far and by which method you are willing to travel.
• Capacity : If you have a large group (more than 15 people) we recommend that you look for a SERVE site that has a capacity of 60 or more. We have found that SERVE sites are more successful if we can place 3 or more different churches at any one site.

Browse trip locations here »

What’s included in SERVE mission trips?

Short Answer:  Most Everything Long Answer:  Your registration fee includes most everything you need once you arrive onsite, except transportation to the site and daily transportation while at the mission experience.

What’s included?

• Spiritual Life Guide with small group leaders training notes, theme-based small group discussion outlines, pre-trip lesson suggestions and commissioning litany, post-trip debriefing and follow up guides for adult leaders
• Spiritual Life Guides with daily devotionals for students
• SERVE theme t-shirt
• Supplemental medical insurance
• Lodging (usually in a church or school)
• Daily schedule with planned activities
• Engaging worship and speaker
• Organized service projects and supplies

What’s the typical schedule of a SERVE week?

• Registration, welcome, community-building games.
• You will usually be introduced to your small group, which consists of six to eight students and one adult leader from different churches.
• Breakfast, personal devotions, commissioning service at the Host Church. ( Interested in hosting a mission trip as a “Host Church” ?)
• Lunch, team building, orientation, and organized fun.
• Dinner, session with a speaker, worship, and small group discussions.

Monday through Friday

• 6:30 AM – Wake up
• 7:00 AM – Breakfast/prepare lunches
• 8:00 AM – Devotions
• 8:45 AM – Leave for work sites
• 4:00 PM – Showers/free time/organized games
• 5:15 PM – Leaders’ meeting
• 6:00 PM – Dinner
• 7:30 PM – Evening session with a speaker and worship
• 9:00 PM – Small group discussion
• 10:00 PM – Snack and free time
• 11:00 PM – Lights out
• Pack up and head home to serve in  your own  community!
• Recreation/Sightseeing: At some point during the week, a half day or full day is set aside for recreation (organized by the Host Team). Expect to visit a local attraction, such as beach, theme park, do some sightseeing, etc.
• Detailed schedules are set by the local Host Team and may vary from what’s described here. Please be flexible, and follow the schedule set by the Host Team.
• Middle School experiences may start on Saturday or Sunday, and typically wrap-up on Friday.

What’s the registration process?

After you’ve picked a site ( see mission trip destinations ), follow this process to register:

STEP ONE : Place a $50 deposit per participant to save spots at a particular SERVE site. You’ll just need the number of youth and adult leader spots for your group. Approximately 1-3 weeks after you submit this form, you’ll receive a site confirmation letter by email confirming which site your group has been placed at and providing you with the access code that your group will use to complete your paperwork in Step 2.  Save your spots starting November 1 at Noon (EST)!

STEP TWO :  After you place your deposit and receive your site confirmation letter with your access code, you can then  complete your online registration for each participant individually. You must complete your paperwork by April 1. All registrations completed between April 1 and April 15 will be charged with a $25 late fee.  All paperwork completed after April 15 will be charged a $50 late fee.

STEP THREE: Payment in full is due on May 1 for all SERVE sites.  Background checks are due for all adults on May 15.  For more information on the ThereforeGo background check policy, click here .

Is there still room at a particular site (trip destination) or is it full?

Check the  site description page  or  contact us  to find out whether there are still openings available at a particular site.

Can 19 & 20-year-olds come along?

Our current SERVE mission trips model does not accommodate 19 & 20-year-old participants. For more information contact us .

What are adult leader expectations (and how many are needed)?

How Many Adult Leaders Are Needed for a  SERVE Mission Trip ? One adult (21 years of age or older) is required for every five youth. At least one adult of each gender (if students of each gender are attending).

Adult Leader Responsibilities

• Serve as small group leaders.
• Act as work site overseers.
• All adults are required to attend the entire week with  SERVE .
• Driving their small group to and from work sites throughout the week.
• Be safety-conscious at all times.
• General crowd control and spiritual coaching throughout the week. Download the leader handbook (PDF).

Other Details Due to insurance and liability stipulations, Adult Leaders cannot bring babies or children under the required age for any SERVE mission experience.   All Adult Leaders (21 and older) are required to complete and submit a current background check to the ThereforeGo Ministries office. To be considered current for the 2024 SERVE season, the check must be completed after June 15, 2021. See how to submit a background check here .

What do small groups look like during SERVE?

The host team will place participants in small work/prayer groups, trying to not have more than two people from the same church in the same group in order to promote community among the entire SERVE Site.

What’s the SERVE Site Confirmation?

1-3 weeks after you place a deposit for a SERVE Site, you will receive (by email) a site confirmation letter with instructions to  complete your online paperwork  (if you already have received this letter,  click here ).

Where can I get more information about my SERVE Site?

The Host Team for your SERVE Site will be sending out a welcome letter which will include more details about the week and a packing list. You can expect to receive the information approximately 30 days before your mission experience begins. You can find out who your Host Church is by going to the site’s page ( one of the locations found here ).

Do mission trips really help?

We believe that whether mission trips help or not depends on the type of mission trip you have. Real lasting impact is never accomplished in a week. This is why we partner with local churches to provide our SERVE mission trips! All of our sites are run by volunteers who live and work in these communities all year long.

We believe that SERVE mission trips provide a two-fold impact:

• Become doers of the Word and not hearers only
• Become justice conscious, meeting needs while being introduced to the root causes and concerns
• Grow in their personal faith
• Continue serving others when they return to their home church and community
• Identify community assets and needs
• Provide an infusion of energy to their mission, vision, and outreach efforts
• Help deepen personal relationships and partnerships within their local community. Our host sites are encouraged to partner with ministries that they have an existing relationship with and allow this group of teenagers to bring energy and excitement to the long term partnership.

What tips do you have for traveling with students?

Traveling with Minors:  Any adult who is not a parent or guardian should have written permission to supervise the child from the parent or guardian, as well as the child’s identification, and carry it with them. A letter would also facilitate entry for any one parent traveling with their children. This permission letter should contain addresses and telephone numbers where the parent or guardian can be reached. ( Example Consent to Travel Form  – find  more forms and resources here )  It is strongly recommended that the letter is notarized.

Passport and travel requirements for U.S. and Canadian citizens vary according to the country where you are going. For more information about passport and travel requirements you may check the websites below:

Canada Border Services Agency —  www.cbsa.gc.ca Foreign Affairs Canada —  www.travel.gc.ca U.S. State Department —  www.travel.state.gov U.S. Customs and Border Protection —  www.cbp.gov

*15-passenger vans are not allowed into Ontario due to MTO restrictions

It is your group’s responsibility to have the correct documentation if you are crossing a border.

Keep It Safe:  Make photocopies of your passport’s identification page and/or of your identification cards, and keep the copies separate from the original when you travel. For added security, leave a copy with a friend or relative at home.

Be Mindful:  As COVID policies and requirements continue to change, before crossing an international border, be sure to look up the current COVID vaccine or testing requirements for entry and exit.

For more information,  contact us .

Are there resources for sending (going) churches?

There are  numerous resources  for your church to use in the planning and preparation for your trip.  Visit our online Resource Box!

Are there scholarships available?

Need-based scholarships are available for SERVE. Download a  scholarship form  and/or  contact us for more information. Deadline for request is April 1, 2024.

What forms of payment are accepted and how do I make them?

All SERVE payments are in USD.

ThereforeGo Ministries accepts check/cheque, money order, Visa, MasterCard, or Discover payments .

Payments can be made three ways:

• Online through the registration system
• Over the phone by calling ThereforeGo at 616.241.5616 x3038
• By mail.  Checks/cheques should be made out to ThereforeGo Ministries  and mailed to:

ThereforeGo Ministries Attn: SERVE 4695 44th Street SE Suite 130 Kentwood, MI 49512

Contact us if you have additional questions.

What about insurance?

ThereforeGo Ministries carries secondary health insurance and liability insurance. All insurance claims must be submitted to the participant’s individual insurance first. ThereforeGo’s insurance will begin where the participant’s insurance ends for any medical expenses incurred while at the site. If a participant does not have insurance coverage, ThereforeGo’s insurance becomes the primary coverage. Participants are not covered while traveling to or from the youth mission experience. Check with your insurance provider to verify your coverage in the state/province/country where you are traveling, and bring a copy of your insurance card along .

What’s the transportation policy?

Registration fees do  not  include transportation to and from sites (except where noted). Any exception is noted in the site descriptions as “on-site transportation included” (find the site description on  one of the locations found here ).

Each group must provide a vehicle(s) and adult driver(s) to transport an equal number of participants during the duration of the mission trip. If your group is unable to provide van transportation, please  contact us  to discuss options and additional charges.

What’s the cancellation policy?

Please note that while we were blessed to be able to refund all deposits for SERVE 2020, moving forward all deposits will be non-refundable and not transferable to your remaining balance due.

In the case of extreme weather, disaster, or COVID cancellation: TGM has your group’s safety in mind as we host events. If we are unable to host an event due to weather conditions, national disaster, or because current COVID guidelines set by government agencies prohibit TGM from continuing a SERVE experience, deposits cannot be refunded. Refunds of final balance payments will be made only if properties and/or locations refund TGM for these costs. If an event is hosted as scheduled and your group cancels or reduces numbers due to weather conditions or other concerns, all payments are non-refundable.

If a registrant or immediate family member has an emergency prior to or during the summer mission experience, TGM will do what we can to refund a significant portion of the money.

If you request a change of location or substitution of participants within 30 days of the start date, an additional $50 may be charged to cover administrative costs.

Could you send me some references?

Would you like to hear from a youth pastor or volunteer who has either brought their youth group on SERVE or been a part of a SERVE host team? We would love to connect you with a reference!  Contact us  today to request a reference.

How can I contact you if I have other questions?

You can email us through the form on this page or call us at (616) 241-5616 .

Want to know the latest information about SERVE and ThereforeGo Ministries?

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• Our Leadership Team
• Mission Week At a Glance
• Lake Charles, LA
• South Texas
• Dominican Republic
• Puerto Rico
• New Orleans, LA
• Angel Jimenez
• Aaron Trevino
• Lauren Geddings
• Dominic Kovacic
• Christina Bingham
• Peter Vandal
• Cole Hottovy
• Rebecca Dalsass
• Nate Virgil-Fenelus
• Clara Anderson
• Lauren Carey
• Sydney Cooper
• Jake Whitener
• Kamryn Alvarez
• David Lawless
• Richard Hilton
• Stephany Head
• Join The Team

2023 Mission Season

2023 mission locations.

Lake Charles, LA January 12-18, 2023

Lake Charles, LA March 13-18, 2023

Dominican Republic April 23-29, 2023

Dominican Republic June 5-10, 2023

Harlan, KY June 5-10, 2023

Lake Charles, LA June 5-10, 2023

Dominican Republic June 12-17, 2023

Harlan, KY June 12-17, 2023

South Texas June 19-24, 2023

Harlan, KY June 19-24, 2023

South Texas June 26-July 1, 2023

Harlan, KY June 26-July 1, 2023

Harlan, KY July 3-8, 2023

South Texas July 3-8, 2023

New Orleans, LA July 3-8, 2023

New Orleans, LA July 10-15, 2023

Lake Charles, LA July 10-15, 2023

New Orleans, LA July 17-23, 2023

Belize July 24-29, 2023

Lake Charles, LA July 31-August 5, 2023

Belize July 31-August 5, 2023

JOIN US IN 2023! REGISTER EARLY TO SECURE YOUR WEEK AND LOCATION.

SOUTH TEXAS

RURAL APPALACHIA

GULF COAST (NOLA, LAKE CHARLES)

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

PUERTO RICO

Alternative locations and dates available upon request.

If your group is interested in a winter or spring break mission trip, different dates or locations, please send your dates and location to Stephany at [email protected] and we will try to meet your needs.

Your Name (required)

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What is the best number to contact you?

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Group Individual Family

What trips are you interested in?

Dominican Republic Belize Puerto Rico Fort Myers, FL Lake Charles, LA New Orleans, LA Kentucky South Texas New Mexico Other

Which week works best for your group?

Spring Break June 3-8, 2024 June 10-15, 2024 June 17-22, 2024 June 24-29, 2024 July 1-6, 2024 July 8-13, 2024 July 15-20, 2024 July 22-27, 2024 July 29 - Aug. 3, 2024 Other

Questions or Comments?

Finding The Right Mission Trip

• Communities
• Mission Trips

Need help finding the right mission trip for your group? You're in the right place!

We know that finding the mission trip to meet your group’s unique needs can be a challenge! We also know that starting the planning process can be overwhelming when you do not know where start. That’s why we created this article to simplify the process for planning your Christ-centered mission trip.

Feel free to scroll through the sections and start where you are at in your planning process. 

How do I plan my first youth mission trip? Start here…

Before we dig into specific location options for the best summer mission trip, it’s helpful to narrow down your search by exploring the types of mission trips that best fit your group.

Not all mission trips are designed the same because each of our community partners have unique sets of needs that your group can help meet and different types of learning experiences. We base our age specific locations on the guidance of our community partners.

Here are some important things to consider when planning a mission trips for different age groups. 

• Middle school mission trips  are an opportunity to introduce students to what healthy mission trips look like and respectful service.  
• High school mission trips  are designed to take students deeper into respectful service and immerse them in the stories of the community they are serving.  
• Summer mixed age group mission trips  are a combination of experiences for students across middle school and high school. 
•   YWx custom mission experiences are designed specifically around the vision you have for your group and are available for any age group (including adults.) YWx trips are available year-round!

Each mission trip is incredibly meaningful, and if you plan it right, you’ll be able to build on the momentum as your group serves year after year.

Other factors to consider when choosing a location: 

• What type of service do you want to do?  Do you want your mission trip to include more relational ministry, working with kids, elderly or homeless populations? Do you want your mission trip to include more work projects? Or a mix of both? 
• Are you looking for a specific type of learning experience?  What type of cultural or community experience would be most educational or meaningful for your group? Do you want to serve a population that is similar or different than your own community back home? Is your group mature enough to unpack systemic issues related to poverty, food insecurity, or racial injustice?

Need help planning from our Customer Engagement Team? Chat with us now!

How do you build a mission trip budget?

Finding the best mission trip for your group also means finding a trip that works for your budget.

Your mission trip includes a lot of factors that can impact your group’s budget. As you’re considering key things about “WHO” your group is (middle school students, high school students, etc.), you’ll start to get an idea of “WHERE” you’re willing to travel and “WHAT” all you’re hoping to include as part of your mission trip. Those things all have a large influence on your mission trip budget.

Here is a quick list of questions that will help you understand more about “WHERE” you want to go and “WHAT” you’re hoping to experience on you mission trip:

• How far do you want to travel? Consider the logistics and cost of gas or flights, if you will need to rent a van, will travel take more than a day and require a hotel, how often you might need to stop for a meal on the road, etc.
• Will your group raise money, self-fund, or will your organization cover the cost? If you’re fundraising, we have a free resource for that. Check out our 30 Fundraising Ideas Resource Download

Your mission trip budget planning starts to come into view after you’ve worked through those questions.  If you need more help creating your mission trip budget, be sure to download the  free Mission Trip Planning Guidebook  >>.

Now that you know what kind of trip you’re looking for and what works with your budget, let’s find the best youth mission trip for your group

What is the best mission trip location?

With 32+ locations across the U.S., your group mission trip is closer than you might think.  We partner with Large Urban Cities, Small Urban Cities, Small Towns, and Native American Communities across the United States.

Here’s more about each community type:

Large Urban Mission Trips  invite groups into fast-paced communities with complex, intertwined stories. Service is diverse in these communities.  View all LARGE URBAN MISSION TRIPS >>

Small Urban Mission Trips combine the best of a big city mixed with the charming personality of a small town. Service in small urban communities is often relational, yet diverse.  View all SMALL URBAN MISSION TRIPS >>

Small Town Mission Trips give your students an opportunity to step into a community that is rife with resilience and hope. Service volunteers are often desperately needed and welcomed.   View all SMALL TOWN MISSION TRIPS >>

Native American Mission Trips are intentionally built to welcome groups into conversations about the rich and difficult history of our indigenous partners. Service in Native American communities is often educational and relational.  View all NATIVE AMERICAN MISSION TRIPS >>

What are helpful youth mission trip planning resources?

Take advantage of our  RESOURCE LIBRARY  to download guidebooks to help you with all aspects of your mission trip prep. View the entire  MISSION TRIP RESOURCE LIBRARY .

Here’s a quick glimpse at a few of the key resources from the library PLUS some additional mission trip support that we offer.

• The Ultimate Mission Trip Planning Guide  is a comprehensive resource that helps you think through all the critical details related to picking the best youth mission trip for your group.  Download the Mission Trip Planning Guide HERE >>
• How to Get More Students to Register For Your Mission Trip  is a guide to help you increase youth registration for your mission trip and draw in more adult leaders.  Get the guide HERE >>

Each YouthWorks mission trip is based on respectful service. 

Since 1994, YouthWorks has facilitated mission trips through the lens of respectful service.

We believe that God is already at work in individuals, churches and  communities, and we use Jesus’ example of servant-leadership to join that work. Throughout our partnership with a community, we listen closely, speak carefully and serve humbly. Respectful service may feel less efficient, but we believe it is more effective and life-giving.

Through our experience facilitating mission trips we have learned a lot of lessons about respectful service—sometimes through mistakes but also through success. Without respectful service as our lens, mission trips can easily create damaging relationships or encourage unjust systems to thrive.

We’ve committed our work to creating mission trips through this lens of respectful service. But we also ask every partner who joins us to do the same. To help with that work, we’ve created this guidebook that leads you through an intentional process to examine why you’re wanting to serve and how you can do it respectfully.

DOWNLOAD THE RESPECTFUL SERVICE MISSION TRIP GUIDEBOOK HERE >>

Still need help finding the right trip for your group?    >> Chat with us now and we’ll help you out!

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5 Reasons Every Teen Should Go On A Mission Trip Mission Trip Fundraising Ideas How to Create a Fundraising Letter

Christ-centered Mission Trips

Mission trips in over 30 communities View All Trips

Develop Volunteer Leaders

Use your mission experience to build up your adult volunteers. Download the free leader guide:  

Short-Term Missions Trips

• Introduction
• The Experience
• Sign Up for a Trip

1-2 Week Missions Trips in a wide variety of locations around the world

Throughout the year, missionaries partner with individuals and teams to serve with them in their local communities.

Short-term mission trips serve as cultural exchanges, broaden global perspectives, and offer tangible help to the people in the communities where Serge works – often forging lasting relationships among team members and with the local community.

Short-term trip opportunities include: 

• Construction
• English language camps and VBS clubs
• Teaching/discipling of pastors and church leaders
• Sports camps
• Prayer weeks
• Marriage and Parenting conferences
• Vision Trips
• Auto Mechanics
• and more…

Why Go Short-Term with Serge?

Meaningful projects support long-term work.

We want your trip to be beneficial as possible for all involved — your short-term team, your sending church, and your missionary and international partners. Every team we send participates in important, helpful work that is more than something we could accomplish through financial resources alone.

Community Development

Frequently, short-term teams can be ineffective, or at worst harmful, to local communities and the materially poor. We see Short-Term teams as more than just an opportunity for spiritual tourism – but avenues that God uses to create lasting change in the lives of team members and the communities they serve.

Renewed Vision for Missional Living

The effectiveness of a short-term team expands far beyond the scope of the weeks spent overseas. Through serving cross-culturally, you can joyfully re-encounter your own need for the gospel and bring renewed vision and excitement back to local mission engagement.

2023-2024 Short-Term Mission Trips

 trip full , children’s english camp, malaga, spain, teen english camp, l.e.a.p. week, spring break l.e.a.p. trip.

• Latin America

Dominican Republic Auto Repair

Jarabacoa, dominican republic, ministry housing construction team, crucero cultural exchange youth camp, himalayan prayer trek.

What They’re Saying

“ "Since going on my STT, my prayer life has expanded exponentially. Something was ignited in me and I want to dive deeper than ever before into my relationship with the Lord. The way the Lord used me over there was really special, but also a great reminder that I can have those moments and conversations in my daily life here [at home]." Morgan Montrose

“ "Why not take 7 days? Allow those 7 days to change your heart and grow your vision of what God is doing in the world. He created the world in 7 days. Imagine the spiritual impact you can have on one person and what that can do. You could be talking to the next Paul or the next person who brings revival to this people group." - William Graphic Designer

“ "A short-term missions trip will give you a broader picture of the church universal. It's incredibly encouraging to see how the Lord is working in the world, not just in your local church, but to see and experience how the Spirit is moving in somebody else's culture. It changes how you worship. It changes the way you read the bible. It might change the way you see different churches in your neighborhood and how they are working together." Michael VanDerLinden

“ Since going on my STT, I have more of an awareness of the need for the gospel, both in the lives of those who are lost, and in my life. I also have more passion for evangelism in my personal life, and actually taking the steps to engage people in conversation." Dwayne Noble

Short-Term Missions

 frequently asked questions, application process.

The first step is for you or your church leader to fill out the form at the bottom of this page.

What are the costs for a Short-Term Trip?

Costs vary for each trip. You can get specifics for a trip that interests you by contacting Brad Wallace, our Short-Term Coordinator at [email protected] . If you need to support raise, you can raise money from friends and family, through your church, and sometimes directly through Serge.

How soon do I need to sign up?

Sooner is better. All of our trips close at least two months before departure, and you may be looking to raise support.

How can I learn more about a particular trip?

If you have questions this page doesn’t answer, please contact Brad Wallace at [email protected].

Short-Term Team Sign Up

To sign up for any of our Short-Term Team Opportunities, please fill out the form below. Have a question? Please contact our Short-Term Coordinator, Brad Wallace at [email protected].

• Your Name First Name Last Name
• Email Best Email to Reach You
• Phone * Phone Number
• Address * City State
• Not Sure Yet
• Trip Interest Tell us what trip you are interested in or would like to know more about?
• Yes, I’d like to occasionally hear from Serge about ministry, new initiatives, events, and opportunities to serve or give.

RELATED RESOURCE

By patric knaak.

On Mission is an expanded daily devotional guide, designed to help you make the most of your experience by: spiritually preparing for your trip, staying connected to Jesus each day, and reflecting on what God has taught you, and finding new ways to stay missionally-engaged after you return home.

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Dates: Sept. 27 – Oct. 11, 2024

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The short-term team will trek with Serge missionaries in the Himalayas. You will learn about the spiritual climate of a country entrenched in thousands of years of idolatry and pray alongside local believers that Jesus would reign as King & Lord in the hearts of those who have never heard His name.

Trip length: 15 days 

Who: Adults and youth (13 and older) with a passion to learn, understand, and experience one of the oldest cultures on the planet. Physical conditioning important to be able to reach remote mountain villages with a 20 – 30 pound trekking pack.

Approx. trip cost: $1425 plus airfare. This fee includes registration fee, lodging, most meals, domestic travel, E-tourist visa, trek expenses, guides/translators, and ministry expenses.

Individuals will pay their own “day-off” costs such as sight-seeing or helicopter ride over the Himalayas.

Deadline to apply : May 1, 2024

Stories of Grace in Your Inbox

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• Last Name *
• Zip/Postal Code *
• Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Dates: J une 20-30, 2024 (depart June 19) 

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This short-term team will work with Serge missionaries in Malaga, Spain, to put on an English Camp for young kids in the community. The English Camp is a wonderful way to serve and connect to the local community, allowing relationships to be built with kids and their parents, which constructs a bridge in a very secular culture to reach the locals with the gospel. The team will lead a fun urban English camp for kids (ages 6-11) with activities that include sports, crafts, and music.

Trip length: 11 days

Max team size: 20 people

Who Can Go: Adults, college students, and youth (high schoolers) welcome. No Spanish is necessary, but it would be an asset.

Approximate Trip cost: $980 + airfare

Dates: J une 20-30, 2024 (depart U.S. on June 19)

This short-term team will work with Serge missionaries in Malaga, Spain to put on an English Camp for teens in the community. The English Camp helps teens become more proficient in English, something necessary to graduate from college in Spain. This also provides opportunities to build relationships and reach the community with the gospel. The team will lead a fun urban English camp for teens (12-17) and the activities will include conversation groups, site visits, beach activities, and games.

Max team size: 20 people 

Who Can Go: Adults welcome with emphasis on high school and college age

DATES: March 2-9, 2024 (These dates are filled.)

DATES:  March 9-16, 2024 

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Max team size: 30

Who: RUF staff and students

Approximate Trip cost: $1000+ airfare

Dates: June or July 2024, exact dates depend on team availability

This short-term team will engage Crucero’s youth by hosting a week of diverse activities, including English lessons, community cleanup, Bible stories, recreational pursuits, and crafts. We will also delve into Dominican culture. Our focus will be on fostering meaningful relationships, both among team members and with the local Dominicans.

Trip length: 10 days depending on team members’ availability

Who: 8-10 youth (minimum age 14) and 2-4 adult leaders who love Jesus and have a sense of adventure. The ability to speak Spanish is fantastic but not required. Ability to go with the flow (Dominicans call that ‘flojo’ or loose), curiosity, and a willingness to learn as well as teach.

Approx. trip cost: $850 + airfare (includes room, meals, ground transportation, supplies, and interpreters). 

Dates: Spring 2024, exact dates depend on team availability

Join this short-term missions trip to improve La Mesa Ministry’s property. This construction team will work on projects like completing a bathroom project, insulating the attic, and repairing La Casita, a small wooden cabin. Your participation will enhance their ministry space and make a lasting impact.

Trip length: 7 – 14 days depending on team members’ availability

Max team size: 14

Who: 4-5 adults who love Jesus and have experience in plumbing, electricity, and/or other areas of construction. Ability to speak Spanish is not required.

Approx. trip cost: $1150 – $1350 + airfare (includes room, meals, ground transportation, building materials, and local skilled labor) Total cost depends on length of trip.

Dates: July 1-8, 2024 (Depart U.S. on June 30th)

LEAP is a time to leap out of your comfort zone and into a different world. This trip is for anyone who has a desire to see all nations of the earth impacted by the love of Jesus.

On this trip, your team will learn about world religions and cultures as well as participate in prayer and outreach alongside Serge missionaries and local churches in predominantly South Asian neighborhoods.

Trip length:  1 Week

Max team size: Registration is open for church teams, family units, or individuals, with a maximum capacity of 100 participants. Initially, each church can register up to 10 people, but this limit may be adjusted if space remains available.

Who:   All adults, from retirees to college students and mature teenagers, are welcome. No prior ministry experience or training is necessary; only the willingness and ability to flexibly participate and travel between scheduled activities. For teams that include high school students, we kindly request that they recruit at least one adult for every two students.

Approx. trip cost:   If staying in a shared room, the cost per person will be $1,100, in addition to airfare. (This fee includes: room, ministry-related transportation, and ministry meals. )

Deadline: March 1, 2024

Dates: Early Nov 2023 (exact dates TBD by participant availability)

Jarabacoa, located in the mountains of the DR, is a location where owning a car is more a need than a luxury. Most vehicles are very old and take a beating from the unpaved roads. Reliable local mechanics are hard to find. Our team will be led by a certified mechanic and spend two weeks repairing the cars of missionaries, local pastors, and members of the church.

Trip length: 2 Weeks

Max team size: 5

Who: Anyone with some knowledge in auto repair, one Spanish speaker to translate

Approx. trip cost: $850 + airfare

Nairobi, Kenya

Our teams in Nairobi come alongside the Kenyan church to help deepen the understanding of core gospel truths and the practical out-workings of these truths in everyday life. We are also engaging with unreached people groups as we desire all nations, peoples, and tongues to come to know the powerful truth of the gospel and put their faith in Jesus Christ. Through soccer ministry and Chronological Bible Storying, we are investing in training and discipleship , passing on spiritual depth, professional skills, and missional values to rising leaders across Kenya.

As an Apprentice in Nairobi, you may…

• Partner with churches and groups across the country through engaging in Chronological Bible Storying seminars to train and equip Kenyan pastors and ministry leaders,   or
• Use soccer to share the gospel with coaches and players across the country in partnership with Ambassadors Football (soccer)
• Engage in the church in a youthful, dynamic city that is shaping culture across East Africa
• Join a grace-centered team that longs to see you grow in your love for Jesus and your understanding of your call to mission
• Help support the Kingdom work already happening through the church in Kenya

Interested in being an Apprentice? Begin a Conversation

Details in nairobi.

Length of Service: 15 Months

No previous language study is necessary; a willingness to study Swahili is required.

• Administration
• Sports Ministry
• Language Learning
• Pastoral Training
• Bible Teaching
• Relational Ministry
• Discipleship

Youth MISSION Trips

Discipleship and leadership development you can bring back home.

Mission trips starting at

Planning a mission trip is a logistical nightmare.

You deserve a partner that’s in it with you.

We love Jesus, and we love his church. And we’re passionate about youth groups taking the Good News into all the world. Like you, we wholeheartedly believe in what God does in and through students on mission trips.

Energize your youth group with a LeaderTreks Trip

OVERCOME APATHY

Grow your students by giving them a chance to serve a new community

INSPIRE UNITY

Unite your students by providing them with a powerful shared experience

STOP WORRYING

Spend more time with students and less time worrying about trip logistics

We understand that your youth mission trip is a catalyst for year-round ministry.

That’s why for the last three decades we’ve been leading trips that meet your students’ needs AND serve local and long-term ministries in the community.

Here’s what you’ll experience

We get to know your expectations

Schedule a call and tell us all about your must-haves and your can’t-haves

We find the best mission trip for your group

Count on us to get you the right trip program at the best site for your students

We prepare your team for impact

Our staff communicate with you every step of the way to set you up for a great mission trip

choose from 13 mission trip locations

Florence, sc, knoxville, tn, pawleys island, sc, atlanta, ga, chicago, il, kansas city, mo, memphis, tn, milwaukee, wi, get the details about summer 2024 mission trips.

leadertreks Trip Programs

Urban adventure serve, level of challenge:.

• KANSAS CITY

Mission Ready

Focus: Students learn to lead while embracing a community. LeaderTreks staff will plan every aspect, but gradually hand off leadership of the team house and worksite to students as the trip progresses. By the end of the trip, nearly every component will be student led. Students will also plan, prepare, and lead a 3 day VBS for local children.

Age Group: Junior High, High School, Combined

• KNOXVILLE, TN
• PAWLEYS ISLAND

Intense Impact

Focus: Bring on the challenge! This trip is completely student-led trip. From food to worksite to VBS, every aspect is planned and led by students. This trip will push students well out of their comfort zones, but prepare them for real ministry and real life.

Age Group: High School

how we partner with you

We only partner with one youth group at a time. We help tailor the trip to your group.

Our staff are youth ministry specialists, and they care deeply about your students’ development.

Your students will rub shoulders with ministry visionaries and tackle real projects that meet real needs.

We’ll help your students learn spiritual habits that they can apply at home.

We give students a chance to learn about leadership in an environment where it’s safe to fail.

Youth Missio n Trips

Helping your students connect with jesus & make an impact, how we support your youth ministry.

All the Logistics are Covered

Fun, Energetic, and Skilled Staff

Dynamic Nightly Programming

Explore 2024 youth mission trip locations.

"We have used TEAMeffort for the last 12 years and since 2013 we have been doing a middle school and high school trips.  Great staff and memorable times."

"we have gone on several trips with teameffort and they all have been a great experience. as the youth leader, it makes my job easier because they take care of everything. highly recommend them.", "fantastic organization. they are very good at organizing meaningful mission trips for youth groups. have had wonderful experiences with them", "this is a great camp run by a great group of people that have servant hearts and a mindset for god's kingdom. this is a great opportunity to put your faith into action by helping to meet the needs of people while spreading the gospel of jesus.  such a blessing to our community.", building a self-running youth ministry, youth missions blog , teens, you can enjoy the bible, too .

Your adventure awaits. Get started today.

Youth mission trips are an important strategy for youth discipleship and leadership.

Follow us on social media.

Mission Trips

2024 and 2025 mission trips.

Mission Discovery makes it easy to serve others all around the world. Whether you’re looking for a mission trip with your church, school, a family, or alone as an individual, there are many ways to live out your faith on the mission field. If you want more information about serving, see the trips we offer below.

Get more dates, locations and activities! Customize your trip to fit all of your needs.

Service opportunities assigned to each community or program are not guaranteed to be part of every trip. Fill out an interest form to learn more.

• Mission Trips 1-2 Weeks
• Immersion 1, 3 & 6 Months
• Summer Internships
• Training Resources
• RISING Education Program
• Micro-Loans
• SIGN IN MyMission ACCOUNT

Pittsburgh, PA Mission Trips

Community Overview

VIEW PHOTOS

Pittsburgh mission trips allow team members to step into a new culture in several neighborhoods that have become home to East African refugees. Our local partners have deep relationships and trust with these neighbors, developing a vision for children and youth programming for this community during the summer. Teams will be able to be hands-on with leading lessons, games, and crafts alongside local adult and teen volunteers. 

As these immigrant families adjust and build a new life in the U.S., team members will be able to learn from them: hearing first-hand stories about their experience as refugees or getting insight from immigration experts about the challenges families face during the process of resettlement.

Your team will need to come with an open heart and be willing to follow cultural-sensitivity guidelines as you interact with immigrant families. The trip is open to high school students or older, although rising 9th graders may also join the trip at the leader’s recommendation.

(* Please note: Kids Club will be Tuesday-Thursday morning with a cultural orientation day and scavenger hunt in the city on Monday!)

Will you join us in serving this community of refugee families on a 2023 mission trip to Pittsburgh?

Details & Logistics

Activities & opportunities, outreach ministry.

Kids Club with East African refugee kids and teens will be a key focus of this trip. Teams will need to come prepared to follow cultural-sensitivity guidelines in an effort to respect and honor local families who are getting adjusted to life in the U.S. Teams will follow the guidance of our staff and local partners when preparing and sharing lessons, creating an environment where kids and their parents can be comfortable and hear meaningful messages.

Work/Service Projects

During the trip, you'll spend much of your time supporting local ministry partners as they work to reach their neighborhoods. This may include projects around the neighborhood or coming alongside local refugee families to help with minor home projects.

Typical Schedule

Each morning, there is time set aside for devotions and quiet time. This is a valuable time and we strongly encourage everyone to spend it with God journaling their thoughts and experiences as the days unfold. EM will provide a physical or printable devotional journal.

EM staff will provide materials for a self-guided time of debriefing and a short devotional in the evening (what we call "Evening Gathering") and it is a great time to incorporate musical worship.

AVERAGE DAILY SCHEDULE

3-6pm - Groups Arrive 5pm - Leader's Meeting 6pm - Dinner 7pm - Orientation Meeting 8:30pm - Team Time (a time for your group alone) 11:30pm - Lights Out

7:15am - Breakfast 7:45am - Devotions and Quiet Time 8:15am - Group Prayer 8:30am - Teams leave for Morning Ministry 9am - Kids Club begins 1pm - Lunch 2-4pm - Afternoon Ministry 4:30pm - Break and Clean-up 5pm - Leaders meeting 6pm - Dinner 7pm - Evening Gathering / Team time *Possible evening ministry programs

Lodging, Food & Transportation

Lodging Teams serving in Pittsburgh will stay at a local church or school in the neighborhood depending on the week.

Sleeping Teams will be sleeping on the floor and should plan on bringing mats or air mattresses as well as a sleeping bag or light bedding and a pillow.

Bathrooms and Showers Teams will have access to bathrooms at the local church and ministry sites but will need to shower at a nearby school.

Water Teams will have access to water at the housing location and at their work and outreach sites. Everyone should plan to bring refillable water bottles to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Electricity & WiFi There is electricity available to teams where they will be staying, as well as at most work and outreach locations. However, we encourage team members to set their phones aside and fully engage in ministry. It may not be appropriate to use your phone or take photos at certain ministry sites.

Security Housing will be in a secure facility. Doors are locked at night with controlled access. However, team members are discouraged from bringing valuables. The neighborhoods where teams are serving during the day have visible needs and a rough reputation. Teams will not be permitted to go to certain locations at night, but ministry will take place during the day and with the supervision of local staff who know the community well. Please come prepared to step out of your comfort zone and demonstrate maturity while serving.

Food A wonderful team of local cooks, alongside your Experience Mission Summer Staff, will be preparing and serving your meals. Breakfast and dinner will be served buffet-style, and your team will pack your lunches. Team members should plan to bring their own reusable plate, bowl, cup, and silverware for meals or the team should purchase bulk paper products ahead of time.

Air Travel Teams should plan to fly into the Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), which is approximately 30 minutes from the housing location.

Transportation Your team's transportation to, from, and while in Pittsburgh is not covered by the cost of your trip. You will need your vehicles throughout the entire week to transport your team to various locations for work and ministry.

NOTE: Using a school bus as your main mode of transportation while in this community is NOT an ideal option. 15-passenger vans or smaller vehicles are your best choice for transportation in Pittsburgh.

Health & Safety

Em's health & safety plan.

Staff Certification All EM Summer Staff are certified in First Aid and CPR.

Medical Kits Medical kits that include first-aid supplies for general accidents and ailments are provided for each site. In domestic locations, we ask that teams supply their own medications like Tylenol, Ibuprofen, Benadryl, and Imodium as they deem necessary. In international locations, we will also carry a Trauma Kit or First Responder Kit. In these remote locations, we will have medications like Tylenol, Ibuprofen, Benadryl, and Imodium on hand. We make these available to adult team leaders for their sole discretionary use with their team members. EM Staff will not dispense any medications.

Emergency Response Plan Based on the severity of each emergency, EM has a plan for appropriate response.

- If a team member becomes seriously ill, they will be taken to a local doctor to receive appropriate medical attention and medications. If they are a minor, their Team Leader along with our staff will accompany them to the clinic. If needed, their parents will be contacted. Their recovery will be carefully monitored by our staff.

- If there is an accident that requires a doctor, but is not life-threatening and does not have the potential to cause permanent damage, Experience Mission staff will locate the Team Leader, contact parents or guardians (providing the injured is a minor), and provide safe but quick transportation to a local clinic.

- In the event that an accident occurs which is life-threatening or has the potential for permanent damage, emergency medical care will be secured and arraignments will be made if necessary, to transport the injured person to the United States as quickly as possible providing they are serving in one of our International locations. In our domestic locations, local 911 services will be contacted immediately. The family will be contacted immediately to assist in guidance for appropriate response.

All medical care is the sole responsibility of the team member. Experience Mission requires every team member to be covered by domestic medical insurance and recommends that team members traveling abroad carry additional international travel insurance to cover any medical needs their domestic medical insurance may not cover.

Immunizations As with all mission trips, it is essential that volunteers are up to date on all childhood immunizations. Each volunteer must also have a tetanus shot.

Check out EM's current Covid Guidance

Registration & Payment

Experience Mission has specific policies regarding team registration and withdrawal. Please refer to the document below for specifics.

View EM's Mission Trip Registration Policy

INDIVIDUALS

All volunteers on a week-long EM mission trip must be part of a team of at least six (6) people, with at least one team member age 21 or older to serve as the Team Leader. Not part of a group? All young adults ages 18-30 are eligible to apply for EM's IMMERSION program.

Pittsburgh Trip FAQs

What age group can you accommodate in Pittsburgh? Mission trips to Pittsburgh, PA, are open to high school-age students and older.

How much do Pittsburgh mission trips cost? The cost for this trip in 2023 is $450/person. This includes lodging, food, staffing, and all trip-related expenses.

What seasons do you offer Pittsburgh mission trips? As a new community partner for Experience Mission, trips to Pittsburgh in 2022 are limited to a few weeks in mid-summer.

Do you offer spring break trips in Pittsburgh? We do not currently offer spring trips to this community. Call 888-475-6414 to inquire about custom options or check out all our spring break mission trip communities .

What will I do on an Pittsburgh mission trip? Teams in Pittsburgh will engage with refugee communities, helping to put on kids programs and serving in a variety of ways, while learning from local people about their stories and culture.

Will we work with children in Pittsburgh? Yes! Children's ministry is likely to be a big part of mission trips in Pittsburgh. EM Kids Club is an integral part of the ministry on many EM trips. If it will be part of your mission trip, your EM support contact will provide you with the resources needed to prepare your team.

Where will my team stay in Pittsburgh? Teams will be sleeping on the floor in rooms at a local church. Plan to bring sleeping mats or air mattresses. Meals will also be at this location, while showers will be available at a location off-site at specific times during the week.

Are meals provided for Pittsburgh mission trips? Yes! Meals will be provided by local cooks and Experience Mission staff for the duration of your trip. Our mission trip food policy outlines the details of what we can accommodate for dietary restrictions and more.

How does transportation work during Pittsburgh mission trips? You will arrange your own transportation in Pittsburgh. We recommend 15-passenger vans and smaller. We don't recommend relying on buses as a mode of transportation for this trip.

What time can I arrive in Pittsburgh? Check-in is between 3pm and 5pm on the first day of your selected trip. Our staff will be awaiting your arrival. Dinner is provided, followed by an orientation meeting to get you ready for the week.

What should I pack for an Pittsburgh trip? A suggested packing list will be available once you register for your trip. Generally, you'll only need clothing, personal items, and bedding! We'll have all the necessary materials for projects and outreach opportunities on-site.

Does EM have any Covid requirements for teams? We ask that teams bring 1-2 masks/person and 2-4 rapid tests in the event that someone on your team becomes sick during the trip. Outside of that, we simply recommend that teams follow current CDC recommendations regarding travel, testing, and what to do if you're exposed or get sick. View EM's Current Covid Guidance

Does EM offer any other urban mission trips? Yes! EM also has opportunities to bring groups to serve in New York City , Chicago , and New Haven, Connecticut .

Have more questions about Experience Mission trips? Check out our general FAQs , or call our support team at 888-475-6414 .

Upcoming Trip Dates: Pittsburgh, PA

We’d love to connect with you.

Dont hit a snag in your mission trip planning! Fill out an interest form or call (888) 475-6414 (Tue-Thu, 9am-5pm ET) to ask questions and learn more about upcoming EM mission trips.

Fill Out An Interest Form Call (888) 475-6414

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Make your Mission Trip a reality!

Fill out a Group Interest Form

Only takes a minute! Simply choose the community and trip dates you’re most interested in—no commitment necessary.

We’ll personally follow up with you this week

Answering your questions and walking you through the process of finding the best trip, registering your group, and preparing to serve together.

You and your team serve on a cross-cultural mission trip!

Organized and led by EM field staff or local partners, your trip will bring encouragement and light to people in difficult circumstances, as you learn what it means to care for all people, whoever and wherever you are.

Fill Out an Interest Form

Read our Mission Trip FAQ and Registration Policy . If you have additional questions or don't see the dates you're looking for, fill out an interest form for the trip closest to what you're hoping for and let us know the needs of your group.

Don't let fundraising slow you down!

Download the free EM Fundraising Guide for all our best tips and ideas for making fundraising for your next trip fun and easy.

Get the Free Guide

Download our free Fundraising Guide for all our best tips and ideas for making fundraising for your next trip fun and easy.

You must have a group size of at least 6 members to join this trip. Please view the Small Team trips or call our Servicing Department for more options at 888-475-6414 .

View Small Team Trips

Which trip are you interested in?

Individuals (age 18-30):, verify your email address, which position are you applying for.

Student Mission Trips 2023

• Sunday, June 4, 2023 9:00 AM 09:00 Friday, June 30, 2023 12:00 PM 12:00
• Google Calendar ICS

There is no better way to grow in faith than through serving others in the name of Jesus. This summer we are blessed to have amazing mission opportunities for both Middle and High School students.

Our High School Students (currently in grades 9-12) are headed to Oklahoma June 4-10th for a week of home repair missions. Cost for this trip is $300.

Middle School Students (currently in grades 6-8) are going to The Boaz House, a women’s faith-based rehabilitation ministry, in Hempstead, Texas and will be working on various projects at the organization’s new property. Cost for the trip is $225 and the trip will run from June 25-30.

Parents and adult volunteers are needed to make these trips happen! We would love to talk with you about serving on these trips this summer.

University of Idaho Main

A calendar of events for the University of Idaho including Jazz Fest, Vandal Football, Thesis and Dissertation Announcements and student activities.

ui, uidaho, vandals, vandal, event, events, calendar, moscow, idaho, id

Vandal Women's Soccer at University of Washington

Vandal men's golf at big sky conference championship, exploring the information landscape | no pain, no gain: running away from physical activity misinformation, faculty/staff green dot, hit the book(s) club discussion meeting, employee benefits orientation, exploring the information landscape | image illusions and mind tricks, the 2024 undergraduate research and creative arts symposium, physics colloquium: "schrodinger-newton gravitational solitons with cylindrical symmetry", learning from the south: the black experience and reform in republican china, education abroad first-time info session, fencing club practice, woman of the year awards, sustainability for farm and garden, ww sticker grab n go, social security 101, rcr: what you need to know about publication and authorship research, fws thesis defense - sage unsworth, exploring the information landscape | tripping over tropes: what makes up a genre, imci brown bag lunch/seminar series, renfrew interdisciplinary colloquium: the challenge of anticipating coastal flooding in the face of climate change, qa with cdar director, exploring the information landscape | mythical mongolian demons, or research is for everyone, faculty senate meeting, transplanting vegetable starts, student recital: grant miller, trumpet, finals fest 2024 feat. fleet foxes and desolation horse, guitar ensemble, ww/ew cupcake social, blood drive, graduate student mental health series: practical tips for managing anxiety, english series, mindfulness noon drop-in, future you: negotiates the salary you deserve, “nonprofit engagement opportunities in latah county” brown bag, exploring the information landscape | optimizing online shopping, artistry in action: using your art degree in diverse spaces, exploring the information landscape | finding your next favorite book, peace corps information session: university of idaho, intro to lead climbing clinic, breaking silence, vandal men's tennis vs. big sky conference, vandal women's tennis vs. big sky conference tournament, expo vip for idaho high school students, lhsom convocation, cancelled - math colloquium: jordan broussard, english conversation hour, menard law building's 50th reunion, boise and moscow, vandal night at moss greenhouse, aapi heritage month keynote address, vandal quiz bowl practice, student recital: henry jensen, composition, college republicans end of year party and elections, concert band & wind ensemble, orlando - preview, vandal track & field/cross country at oregon state high performance meet, engineering design expo for stem educators and classrooms, engineering design expo, fws thesis defense - donavan maude, free rental fridays, accelerated computing with gpus using cuda and pycuda - data hub tech talk, friday crafternoon: flower lei making, lamb weston info session, pollinator garden volunteering event, vandal football vs. spring game, student recital: gabriella woozley, clarinet, kino short film festival, vandal track & field/cross country at desert heat classic, de-stress fest, overnight rafting trip, women-led river canyon backpack, vandal vets rafting trip, student recital: zawng lum, piano, embodying nature: dance research showcase, vandal women's soccer vs. gonzaga university, student recital: ellen yenne, tuba, student recital: gage purdom, piano, student recital: elisa clark, percussion, student recital: derek carson, voice, law final exams, spring no-exam week, thank an advisor, heart saver first aid/cpr/aed training for employees, cup of joe with asui president tanner mcclain, 2024 artability showcase, lavender celebration, ww muffin time, contemporary art songs - a poetry, voice and composition collaboration, teaching assistant community group, allen ethics speaker series, renfrew interdisciplinary colloquium: updating estimates of u.s. reforestation opportunities for climate mitigation, ww traveling ice cream, vandalizing the kitchen — mediterranean medley, online bachelor of business administration degree info session, early music ensemble, frfs thesis defense - aaron daughetee, electronic forms and workflow community of practice, laughter yoga, cetl wired wednesday: digital activities to enhance formative assessment, make it @ the mill grad cap decorating, soviet-american scientific connections, wellbeing ambassador meeting, science on tap, student recital: patrick brandl surarez, piano, composers concert, oregon coast surfing trip, pavilion in space: an interplanetary game experience, wwami red cross blood drive, caa graduation celebration, iids seminar series, lavender lunch, university excellence awards and employee appreciation events, mindfulness with sailesh, international grad student community group, caa awards ceremony, sarb general meeting, all choirs concert & orchestra, gpsa coffee hour, free mobile hiv screening, therapy dogs, charis club summer sendoff, jazz bands & jazz choirs, ada county vsf vandal scramble and auction, bee a volunteer, board games @ thomas hammer coffee, ww loft study session, remote work professional certificate course, spring final exams, frfs thesis defense - matt modlin, renfrew interdisciplinary colloquium: a visit to the arboretum and botanical garden, vandal track & field/cross country at big sky conference championship, athena end of year business meeting, latah county silver and gold uiaa awards, deadline to apply for summer graduation without late fee, apparel, textiles & design senior showcase, spring commencement, team vandals in pink — flock cancer street stroll, bfa closing reception - in media res, vandals and cougars with the bees, wilderness first responder hybrid course — full course, summer session i classes begin, spring final grades due by noon, darren candow — vision for teaching, research and leadership, wilderness first responder hybrid course — refresher, mental health action day, vandal coffee hour in orofino, vandal happy hour in mccall, spring commencement: boise, summer session i alternative 6-week classes begin, spring commencement: idaho falls, direct seeding vegetables, vandal track & field/cross country at ncaa championships west prelims, qpr suicide prevention training, respect in the workplace, university holiday - closed, recovery ally training, employee mental health first aid part i, planning your professional growth, vandal track & field/cross country at ncaa championships, employee mental health first aid part ii, canyon county vsf vandal scramble and auction, biology of vector-borne diseases, summer session ii classes begin, architecture boot camp - kick off.

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• How to Know God

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• Summer Missions
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Cru Summer Mission Trips for Students

Not sure where to go? Click below to search and filter all trips.

God is moving all over the world, and He invites you to be a part of something extraordinary.  Discover how to live out your unique design as you grow in your faith, experience community on mission, and make an eternal impact by helping people know Jesus on a summer mission! This summer, thousands of students will go around the world with Cru.  Learn more about how your passions align with a one- to 12-week summer mission.  Come be part of something extraordinary!

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• Moscow School District #281
• A.B. McDonald Elementary School
• J. Russell Elementary School
• Lena Whitmore Elementary School

Moscow High School

• Moscow Middle School
• Paradise Creek Regional High School
• West Park Elementary School
• View Original
• Lena Whitmore Elementary
• McDonald Elementary
• Russell Elementary
• West Park Elementary
• Moscow High School Library
• Moscow Middle School Library
• Elementary Libraries
• Staff Email Access
• Office 365 Portal
• PowerSchool For Teachers
• Absence Management
• Spiceworks (Technology Work Orders)
• Safe Schools Course
• PowerSchool For Substitute Teachers
• www.Regence.com
• Pay For Staff Lunch
• Administrative Staff
• Mission Statement
• Statement of Beliefs
• School Report Card - Assessment Data
• Canvas (Parent Login)
• Canvas (Student Login)
• Canvas Parent Guide
• Canvas Student Guide
• Career Exploration Resources
• Resumes & Cover Letters
• Interview Skills
• Youth Employment
• Work Readiness Skills
• Community Service Ideas
• Apprenticeships
• Moscow Residential Firefighter Program
• Workforce Innovations Opportunity Act (WIOA) / GED
• Idaho Launch Program
• LCSC Workforce Training
• UI Cooperative Extension
• Fundraising
• Class Reunions
• Clubs & Activities
• Cap & Gown
• Academic Guide
• New Student Registration
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• Course Requests & Four Year Plan
• Drivers Education
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• Co-Curricular Substance Abuse Policy
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• Choir Activities
• Band / Orchestra
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• Parent - Coach Communication Guide
• Register My Athlete
• MHS Parent Release Form
• MHS Sports Schedule
• 2021 MHS Commencement

Welcome To Our School

Mission Statement: To provide the best education possible to prepare students for the complexities of adult life by creating a community of knowledgeable students who respect themselves and others and who accept responsibility for their actions in the world and community in which they live.

Moscow High School Headlines

Eighth grade students attending Moscow Charter, Palouse Prairie, or St. Maries schools are invited to attend the same orientation session at Moscow High School on March 20 th.   Charlene Jakich will also have registration for Moscow Charter, Palouse Prairie and St. Mary’s Schools on April 5 th at 11:00 A.M. in the MHS Auditorium. Registration packets will be due back to lead teachers by April 12th.

If you have any questions, you may call Charlene Jakich in the Moscow High School Counseling Office at 882-2591.

Erik Perryman

To purchase a yearbook:

• Go to yearbookforever.com. 
• Type Moscow Senior High School into the first box
• Click on the ‘Buy Yearbook’ link.
• Decide if you would like to personalize your yearbook.
• Enter your students first name, last name, and grade level into the correct boxes.
• Make sure the information looks accurate.
• Click checkout.
• Enter payment information.

Quick Links

Upcoming Events

• SAT Makeup Day 8:00AM - 1:00PM
• MHS Top Scholars 6:30PM - 8:00PM
• No School Memorial Day All Day
• Yearbook Distribution 3:10PM - 4:15PM
• 2nd Semester Finals All Day - Jun 5

Moscow School District #281

• A.B. McDonald Elementary School
• J. Russell Elementary School
• Lena Whitmore Elementary School
• Moscow High School
• Moscow Middle School
• Paradise Creek Regional High School
• West Park Elementary School
• View Original
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• Elementary Attendance Zones
• District Calendar
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• Continuous Improvement Plan & Accreditation Report
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• Financial Information
• Current RFP/BID
• Contracts - Certified Staff
• Negotiation Agreement
• Interest-Based Bargaining (IBB) 2024/25
• Interest-Based Bargaining (IBB) 2023/24
• Interest-Based Bargaining (IBB) 2022/23
• Interest Based Bargaining (IBB) 2021/22
• Surplus Items Auction
• Facility Use Request
• Lena Whitmore Elementary
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• Academic Databases
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• Parent Resources
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• Author Visits
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• Citation Guidelines 3-4
• Citation Guidelines Grade 5
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• Book Review Websites
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• Canvas (Parent Login)
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• Pay For Staff Lunch
• MSD Wellness Information
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• Safe Schools - Vector Training
• www.Regence.com
• Employee Information, District Forms
• Certified Evaluation Forms
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• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Information
• Assessment Calendar
• Curriculum Center Home Page
• Professional Development Committee Minutes
• Professional Development Forms
• Common Core State Standards
• Leadership Premiums
• Literacy Research Model
• Internet Safety
• Citation Formats
• iPads Apps Purchasing Process
• Mobile Apps
• Facebook Page