2015 group mission trips catalog

8/12/2019 2015 Group Mission Trips Catalog

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MAKE SUMMER 2015 THE MOSTTRANSFORMATIONAL YET

POWERFUL HOMEREPAIRTRIPS

WWW.GROUPMISSIONTRIPS.COM

NSPIRING COMMUNITYSERVICE TRIPS

LIFE-SHAPING

INTERNATIONALTRIPS

2015 YOUTHMISSION TRIPSJESUS-CENTERED SERVICE EXPERIENCES FOR TEENAGERS


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Why We Exist / Statement of Faith 3

Overview 4

We Have Your Back 5

Choose Your Trip 6

Explore the Map 8

Reframe / 2015 Theme 10

Hear From Youth Leaders 12

Top 3 Reasons to Do a Youth Mission Trip

Getting Approval From the People Who Matter Most

Why Partner With Group Mission Trips?

Home Repair Mission Trips 14

Community Service Mission Trips 24

International Mission Trips 32

Trips for Youth Groups

Trips for Everyone

Meet Our Team 42

Registration Form 43

WHATS INSIDETable of Contents

BUILD MEANINGFULRELATIONSHIPS ENCOUNTERJESUS


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WHY WE EXIST

In 1976, Colorado sustained a catastrophic flood. Te

following year, Tom Schultz, founder of Group Publishing,

organized church youth groups from across the country to

come to Colorado and help rebuild the homes and lives of

the flood victims. More than 300 teenagers and their youth

leaders, just like you, arrived in Colorado and worked on over

50 repair projects. As a result, Group Cares (formerly Group

Workcamps Foundation) was established as the nonprofit

partner of Group Publishing. Since then, over 300,000

mission trip participants have racked up more than 6

million volunteer hours serving people in need.

Since that first event, one thing remains true: We strongly

believe in providing opportunities for teenagers to grow

closer to Jesus through serving others either in their ownbackyard or halfway across the globe.

oday, Group Mission rips has grown and offers several

unique multi-day mission trip experiences that take place

in the spring, summer, and fall:

WEEK OF HOPEYouth build friendships and meaningful connections while

caring for children and the elderly. Trough heartfelt experi-ences and acts of kindness, youth share the love of Jesus and

bring hope to the lives they touch.

WORKCAMPSGear up for these high-energy, home-repair mission trips dur-

ing which youth work hard to improve the living situations of

people in need, while also building strong relationships with

friends and youth leaders.

LIFETREE ADVENTURESWhether its your groups first time out of the country, or

youve been serving internationally for years, Lifetree Adven-

tures can match you up with a meaningful experience for your

group. From building a new house for a poor family in Costa

Rica, to travelling on a riverboat in the Amazon and serving

native villagers, our expert mission planners have covered the

details so your group can have a safe, impactful international

mission trip.

STATEMENT OF FAITHWe believe the Bible is the inspired, authoritative Word of God. We believe there is one God, eternally existent

in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We believe in the deity of Jesus Christ, in his virgin birth, in his

sinless life, in his death on the cross, in his bodily resurrection, in his ascension to the right hand of the Father,

and in his personal return. We believe people receive forgiveness of sin and eternal life through a relationship

with Jesus.

We leverage over 35 years of expertise to guarantee well-planned, stress-free mission trips for you. Group Mission rips are designed

to give you an opportunity to spend your time in ministrynot organizing the details! Our experience in mission trips helps us refine

the process and eliminate the hassles of trip planning. We take care of the details so you can focus on what matters most: the spiritual

growth of your students before, during, and after the trip.

Group Mission Trips is theLeading Provider of ChristianYouth Mission Trips.

GIVE US A CALL AT800-385-4545 EXT 2 / PAGE 3


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PLAN NOWto give your students a powerful spiritual-

growth experience next summer!

CALL OUR GROUP MISSIONTRIPS ADVISORS AT800-385-4545 EXT 2OR VISIT

GROUPMISSIONTRIPS.COM

MEET YOUR ADVISORSOur team of advisors is dedicated to

answering all of your questions and

getting you set for the mission trip your

students will never forget. Learn more

about them on page 42.

VALUE-PACKEDEXPERIENCES INCLUDE: Organized and simple pre-planning. Most of the

prep work is done for youso you spend less time on

details and more time with your teenagers.

Spiritual growth.A Jesus-centered focus helps

students deepen their faith. Last year, 94% of youth

participants said they grew closer to God on their

Group Mission rip.

More fun than youve ever expected.

Opportunities for fun abound as your group travels,

works, hangs out, worships, and meets new friends.

Unique, Jesus-centered worship programming.Pre-tested with youth and leaders, these powerful

programs will have a lasting impact on all participants.

Team-building opportunities.We foster a great

ministry setting in which your youth group can forge

stronger friendships while they have a blast

serving together.

Mature, trained sta you can trust.Our leaders

are the best of the best and are passionate about helpingyouth grow in their faith.

At Group Mission rips, we provide fun mission trips through

Workcamp, Week of Hope, and Lifetree Adventures that will impact

your students in a spiritually powerful way. Teyll grow closer together

as a group and, more importantly, closer to Jesus. We cannot wait

to come alongside you in fostering transformation in your students

through one of our mission experiences.

ROBIN BRI BRENT


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3. MISSIONSFUNDRAISINGE-BOOK

11 FREE RESOURCES!From phone calls from your Mission rip Advisor to downloadable resources to help with Fundraising

and rip Logistics, weve thought through it all. Join us next Summer and youll get the following:

WE HAVE YOUR BACK

Dont let fundraising deter you from life-changing missionexperiences. ony Myles offers valuable wisdom and helpful tips

for effective fundraising that wont make you want to run away and

quit. Event ideas, organizational advice, and proven methods are all

inside the Missions Fundraising E-book!

DOWNLOAD AT HTTP://BIT.LY/FUNDRAISINGEBOOK

1. LIVE: REFRAME

4-week pre-trip small-

group curriculum10. 3 STEPS TO GAINTHE SUPPORT OFADULT LEADERSHIP

11. TIPS TO GETTINGYOUTH TO SAY YESTO SERVICE

4. ONLINEPLANNING TOOLBuilt to take the stress out

of planning

2. PRE-WRITTENLETTER TO PARENTSShowcasing the value

of missions 7. CHURCHLEADERSHIPMEETING AGENDAested by senior pastors

6. THE BESTPAYMENT PLAN INTHE BUSINESS!

8. PERSONALTENURED ADVISORSo walk you through your trip

9. A TESTEDPARENT SUPPORTMEETING AGENDA

5. RESOURCES TORECRUIT YOUTHAND ADULTS


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AS A STUDENTGROWS...SO CAN

THEIR MISSIONEXPERIENCES

4TH GRADE - 6TH GRADE

EVERYCAMPER WILL HAVE A

JESUS-CENTERED EXPERIENCE

Starting in 4th grade a student has an

opportunity to serve others in unique

ways every year for the next 10 years

and beyond.

A WEEK OF HOPE

BUILT FOR PRE-TEENS

INTRODUCTION INTO MISSIONS

INTENTIONAL PROGRAM DESIGN

A 4-DAY MISSION EXPERIENCE

SPECIAL

INTRODUCTION CAMP

JUST FOR PRE-TEENS.

GETS THEM STARTED IN

JESUS-CENTEREDMISSIONS.

WEEK OF HOPECOMMUNITY SERVICE MISSIONTRIPS

HOME REPAIR MISSION TRIPS

INTERNATIONAL MISSION TRIPS

WORKCAMPS

LIFETREE ADVENTURES


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7TH GRADE | 8TH GRADE

22,000STUDENTS EXPERIENCEDA GROUP MISSION TRIP

IN 2014

9TH GRADE | 10TH GRADE | 11TH GRADE | 12TH GRADE

7TH GRADE-12TH GRADE

HOME REPAIR EXPERIENCE FOR TEENAGERS OF ALL

AGES

6 DAYS OF TRANSFORMATIONAL SERVICE AND FUN

MEANINGFUL WORK WITH GREAT REWARDS

7TH GRADE-12TH GRADE

5 DAYS OF RELATIONAL SERVICE AND FUN

JESUS-CENTERED PROGRAM

WIDE VARIETY OF MEANINGFUL WORK

9TH GRADE-ADULT

JESUS-CENTERED PROGRAM EXPOSURE TO PEOPLES NEEDS GLOBALLY

A MEMORABLE INTERNATIONAL

EXPERIENCE

CHOOSE FROM 17LOCATIONS

PRICE STARTS AT ONLY$239/CAMPER

CHOOSE FROM 38WORKCAMPS LOCATIONS


CHOOSE FROM 10GLOBAL LOCATIONS


STARTING IN

7TH GRADE,

TEENAGERS CAN JOIN

A HOME REPAIR

MISSION TRIP. LIFETREE

ADVENTURES IS OPEN

TO FAMILIES,COLLEGE AGE,

YOUTH GROUPS,

ANYONE.


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Fort Collins

Austin

San Diego

Accident, MD

Brunswick, GA

Buffalo, NY

Cedar Grove, WV

Charlotte, NY

Elizabeth City, NC

Elizabethtown, PA

Garnett, KSGlyndon, MN

Green Bay, WI

Greenwood, SC

Hammond, IN

Hannibal, MO

Hastings, MI

Keansburg, NJ

Lexington, NC

Mescalero, NM

Middletown, OH

Mifflinburg, PA

Alaska

Afr ica - Burkina Faso

Costa Rica

Cuba

Dominican Republic

Millersville, MD

Mission, SD

Ocean View, DE

Parma, OH

Pocahontas, VA

Racine, WI

Red Lake, MN

Ripley, NRoanoke, VA

Rushville, IN

Scranton, PA

Seth, WV

Southern Pines, NC

Spencer, NY

Springfield, IL

Sunbury, PA

eec Nos Pos, AZ

Waterloo, IA

Wintersville, OH

Austin, X

Charleston, SC

Cincinnati, OH

Fort Collins, CO

Grand Rapids, MI

Indianapolis, IN

Kenosha, WI

Manassas, VA

Minneapolis, MN

Nashville, N

Newark, NY

Orlando, FL

Pasadena, MD

Pittsburgh, PA

San Diego, CA

St. Louis, MO

York, PA

Community Service Youth Mission rips Home Repair Youth Mission rips

International Mission rips

Mescalero

Teec Nos Pos

WHERE DO

YOU WANT TOCHANGE LIVES?

Glyndon

Garnet

Mission

Ecuador

Haiti

Honduras

Peru

Puerto Rico


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Manassas

Pasadena

Newark

St. Louis

Kenosha

Nashville

Cincinnati

Grand Rapids

Pittsburgh

Indianapolis

Charleston

Orlando

York

Minneapolis

PUERTO RICO

CUBA

Racine

Hastings

Middleton

Wintersville

Green Bay

Rushville

Waterloo

Brunswick

Greenwood

Red Lake

Elizabeth City

Lexington

Southern Pines

Cedar Grove

Seth

PocahontasRoanoke

annibalSpringeld

Ripley

Accident

Elizabethtown

Parma

Charlotte

Bufalo

SpencerSunbury

Scranton

Keansburg

Millersville

Ocean View

Miinburg

COSTA RICA

HONDURAS

ALASKA

PERU

ECUADOR

HAITI

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

AFRICA -

BURKINA FASO

GIVE US A CALL AT800-385-4545 EXT 2 / PAGE 9


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WEEK OF HOPE & WORKCAMPS 800-385-4545 EXT 2 LIFETREE ADVENTURES 800-747-2157

WITH JESUS AT A GROUP MISSION TRIP?

YOUTH GROUP DEVOTIONSEach evening, just before lights out, youll meet with

your kids to talk through the day. o debrief what

theyve experienced...what it taught them...and what it

means in their walk with Jesus.

And youll have stories from your own day to share,

too, because on a Group Mission rip youre an active

participantnot an observer whos busy organizing the

next meal or scrambling for supplies.

CREW DEVOTIONShe Evening Program is an interactive worshipexperience that is carefully craftedand field-tested

to ensure that your youth come face to face with Jesus.

hrough singing, dramas, compelling video, and guided

activities, students make connections that prompt

deep, lasting growthgrowth theyll take with them

to live out back home.

THE EVENING PROGRAMSDuring the day, crews take a break at their

worksites to sit, enjoy a quick bottle of coldwater, and dig into what the Bible says about

the daily theme.

he Jesus-centered questions asked during

Crew Devotions do more than just challenge

teenagers to grow in their faith. hey also

transform serving a handicapped child or

painting a porch from work into worship.

Note: Additional post-trip resources also included

THE MORNING PROGRAMShese brief, wake-you-up gatherings focusstudents on Jesusand set expectations for

the day: that Jesus will be there...that theyll

serve him...and that great things will happen

expectations that Jesus is delighted to meet,

day after day.

DURING THEIR TRIP / 4 SPIRITUAL TOUCH-POINTS

Your teenagers will spend time with Jesus like never before. And they wont dread that time, because its woven into

the day through four spiritual touch-points that occur naturally, as if Jesus were simply part of the day (which he is!)

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YOUR STUDENTS WILL

EXPERIENCE LIFE-CHANGINGSPIRITUAL GROWTH.

My kidsboth the youth group and my

biological kidshave experienced amazing

spiritual growth on mission trips, says Gregg

McCaslin, a veteran youth minister.

We think were going to do good things for

others, but the entire time God works on us, too.

YOULL SUPER-SIZERELATIONAL TIME WITH YOURGROUP.

Our mission trips have built-in relational time.

When you let a mission trip organizer handle the

details, youll experience the trip alongside your

kids.

All the organization is done, says youth pastor

Jill Wenker of her mission trip experiences with

TOP 3 REASONS TO DO A YOUTH MISSION TRIP

Group Workcamps. I can go through the week

with my kids rather than leading the camp.

YOULL SHIFT TO ASERVANT-FOCUSEDMINISTRY.

We first went on a mission trip in 2001 because

I had a small, floundering youth ministry, says

Wenker. A youth ministry friend told me, Youve

got to go to a Workcamp. Itll transform your

groupand it did.

Wenker says many of her students grew up in the

church and inherited their faith from parents

and Sunday school teachers. When kids go to a

Workcamp, their faith becomes their own, she

says. Kids get the message that Jesus died for

them, that God loves them, and that they can

share Gods love with the world.

3

2

1

CHURCH LEADERSIt may sound too good to be true, but youth

pastor Jill Wenker had zero problems getting

her pastor and church leaders on board with a Workcamp

mission trip.

I showed them the Workcamps video from Group

Mission rips, and that won them over, she says. I

stressed that safety is Groups priority, that adult vol-

unteers have to pass background checks, and that

experts go from site to site to make sure things are

going well. hats all it took.

Weve found thats all it usually takes, and were

happy to send you the same video that warmed the

hearts of Jills church leaders.

GETTING APPROVAL FROM THE PEOPLE WHO MATTER MOSTYouve seen the light! Youre all-in for taking your teenagers on a youth mission trip.

PAGE 12 / LEARN MORE AT GROUPMISSIONTRIPS.COM


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WHY PARTNER WITH GROUP MISSION TRIPS?

NOBODY HAS DONE YOUTH

MISSIONS LONGER.Weve learned a thing or two during our 38 years

of organizing youth mission trips, and it shows.

Everything is thought out from start to finish,

says associate pastor Adam Just.

hat means from the moment you decide to

pitch the idea of a mission trip to your students

and your church board, Groups experienced staff

is there for you with the tools you need to castvision, build enthusiasm, and raise funds. hey

will also walk you through our online resources

for planning and registration, and set you up

with mission-trip-focused devotions that will

prepare your teenagers for their experience.

NOBODY IS BETTER AT KEEPING

FIRST THINGS FIRST.Mission trips arent about fixing houses. Or cleaning

alleys. Or hugging orphan kids.

All that happens, but more important is the spiritual

growth of everyone involved. Group Mission rips goes

the extra mile to encourage that growth with

built-in compelling morning devotions, worksite

devotions, and powerful evening experiences. Plus,

you go home with ready-to-use sessions to debriefwhat your group experienced.

NOBODY GIVES YOU MORE FORYOUR MONEY.Ive talked with youth ministers who use cheaper

providers. All they get for their money is someone

lining up places to work. Group provides it all: support,

planning, programming, leadership, volunteers, and

lining up all the details. Its all done, and its done well,

says Gregg McCaslin, a veteran youth minister. Heres

what veteran youth leaders have discovered about getting

all those people excited about a Group Mission rip...

With dozens of organizations lined up to help you organize a youth mission trip, why pick Group Mission Trips? Try these three reasons on for size

ADULT VOLUNTEERSheir big question was about

construction skills, says associate

pastor Adam Just. Once they understand there are

experts to help supervise repairs and that their role

is to be with the kids, theyre OK.

he good news: Well help you reassure your

adult volunteers by providing clear, detailed job

descriptions so they know what to expect...and justhow rewarding their week at a Workcamp will be.

STUDENTShis one is easy: Simply ask.

Share the materials well give you with

your youth. Let them see how theyll change lives,

serve God, and make a difference in the lives of spe-

cific people in specific ways.

You wont believe how fast your students catch the vi-

sion. Were happy to send you the tools youll need tocast the vision in your church. Call us today.


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1 MISSION.

38 CITIES13,000 ATTENDEES



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Workcamps are weeklong mission trips where your youth

group will work hard repairing homes for people in need,

while experiencing the amazing power of community to

accomplish Gods work.

Workcamps are high-energy and action-packed, yet

powerful and life-changing. he camps are BIG: Sometimes

upwards of 450 youth participate, creating lots of energy

and excitement throughout the entire week.

At Workcamps, teenagers come together to ser ve

individuals and communities while building strong, long-

lasting relationships with their friends and youth leaders.

In six short days, hundreds of students from youth groups

across the country repair and transform homesand

strengthen and transform their own faith.

One way their faith gets built is through daily challenges

to do something they may not have done before: painting a

house, using a chop saw or drill, or doing some other task

that can make students feel a little uncomfortable and

vulnerableexactly where Jesus can speak to them.

Workcamps began in 1977 as a home-repair project in

Loveland, Colorado, in response to the tragic flood of

the Big hompson River the previous year. In July 1976,

more than 12 inches of rain fell within three hours near

Estes Park, overflowing and flooding the river. Ultimately,

the river became a raging wall of water that destroyed

hundreds of houses, washed away miles of roads, and

killed more than 140 peoplethe worst natural disaster in

Colorado history.

After that flood, hom Schultz, founder of Group

Publishing, asked church youth groups from across the

country to come to Colorado and help rebuild the homes

and lives of the floods victims. More than 300 youth and

their adult leaders responded, working on more than 50

home-repair projects.

And so the first Workcamps exper ience was born. hom

saw a dramatic change in the hearts of youth and adults

serving the floods victims, and realized that the chal lenge

of helping others in need could ignite and strengthen the

Christian faith of teenagers and adults.

Since then, more than 300,000 people have participated

in a Group Mission rips experiencelogging more than

6 mill ion volunteer hours. hese participants have gained

a new understanding and deeper faith in Jesus by serving

others.

he mission opportunities keep growing, and the same

passion that prompted hom Schultz to launch the first

Workcamp continues to help teenagers from all different

Christian denominations grow closer to God and take on

the challenge of service by helping people in need.

urn the page to see more than 38 Workcamp locations

where your youth can serve next summerand give your

teenagers a Jesus-centered summer experience theyll

never forget!

HOME REPAIRMISSION TRIPS

WORKCAMPS

HOMEREPAIR

MISSI

ONSLEARN MORE BY CALLING BRENTAT800-385-4545 EXT 2


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Workcamps give youth groups a chance to serve people in need

through home repair, basic construction, and paintingbut students

also build strong relationships with their friends and youth leaders.

Sometimes more than 450 teenagers participate in a camp, which

fuels the enthusiasm and excitement throughout the entire week!

TRANSFORMHOMES & LIVES

WO

RKCAMPSHOMEREP

AIR

MISSIONS

Fresh paint keeps houses from rotting and

becoming unsafe.

FRESH COATS OF PAINT



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WORKCAMPS

HOMEREPAIR

MISSI

ONS

Dangerous steps are transformed into a safe

patio for families.

NEW, STURDY PORCHES

A safe wheelchair ramp gives a disabled

person the freedom to live life.

SAFE WHEELCHAIR RAMPS

PAGE 17


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APPALACHIANAn Appalachian Workcamp experience provides your group the opportunity to serve and meet the real

needs of real peoplemany of whom feel neglected and cut off from the rest of the world.

When you think of Appalachia, you may think of coal mining, hills, a strong culture, and West Virginia.

All are true traits but do not completely represent the area known as Appalachia. his region of the

U.S. covers an area from New York to Mississippi and Alabama, and its blessed with abundant natural

resources. However, people in the region have dealt with a long struggle of serious poverty-related issues.

For instance, some areas of Appalachia still do not have a consistent source of electricity or water.

Regardless of the situations

they face, the people are proud

of their history, homes, and

communities. Get to know these

people who are fiercely loyal and

committed to their communities.

Enjoy their deep cultural

connections and rich historical

roots. It will be an unforgettable

experience.

MEET SIGNIFICANT NEEDS

WO

RKCAMPSHOMEREP

AIR

MISSIONS

Cedar Grove, WV July 511 $456

Seth, WV July 1218 $456

Pocahontas, VA July 1925 $456

Roanoke, VA July 26-Aug. 1 $456

LOCATIONS & PRICES

Weve been partnering with Appalachian and Native American communities for more than 30 years and

still have significant work to accomplish. In 2015, bring your teenagers and be a part of this special

service opportunity that will impact families for generations.



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NATIVE AMERICANhe best domestic cross-cultural experience.

One of the best things about taking your youth group on a mission trip is the opportunity for a cross-cultural

experience. And thats one of the benefits of a Workcamp experience on a Native American reservation. Itprovides your youth group an amazing cross-cultural experience without ever having to leave the country.

You will see true need here. Our Native American reservations contain some of the worst poverty in America

with people living under conditions that rival those in the hird World. Some descendants of Americas first

citizens still live without running water or electricity. he work you do here will truly make a differencefor

both the people you serve and your kids lives.

Group Mission rips has been doing Workcamps on Native American reservations for decades. Our deep

relationships in these communities and with tribal leaders provides your group with an experience that you

will never forget. Its not just about repairing the home of a family. Its not only learning about a new culture

and history. Its not simply how your group wil l grow in their relationship with Jesus. Its about all of those

thingsin one amazing experience.

WORKCAMPS

HOMEREPAIR

MISSI

ONS

eec Nos Pos, AZ June 2127 $456

Red Lake, MN July 1925 $447

Mescalero, NM June 28July 4 $399

Mission, SD July 1218 $447

LOCATIONS & PRICES

PAGE 19


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Garnett, KS July 5 - 11 $447

Springfield, IL July 12 - 18 $429

Wintersvile, OH July 19 - 25 $429

Greenwood, SC June 28 - July 4 $447

Southern Pines, NC July 19 - 25 $456

Mifflinburg, PA June 21 - 27 $464

JR/SR. HIGH CAMPS

WORKCAMPS

HOMEREPAIR

MISSI

ONS

Accident, MD June 2127 $456

Buffalo, NY July 511 $464

Charlotte, NY July 26Aug 1 $464

Elizabethtown, PA July 26Aug 1 $464

Keansburg, NJ June 28July 4 $464

Millersville, MD July 511 $456

Ocean View, DE June 2127 $467

Scranton, PA June 28July 4 $467

Spencer, NY July 1925 $464

Sunbury, PA July 1218 $464

NORTHEAST

PAGE 21


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WHAT TO KNOW

Whats included in the registration fee?

We want your trip to be as easy on you as possible. hats

why we provide the following so you dont have to:

Lodging during the week

All meals, except for dinner on your free night

All supplies and project materials for each worksite

Themed T-shirt for each participant

Development of Bible-based, thematic, fun, faith-

building programs

Devotions to read before, during, and after your trip

Highly trained, mission-minded staff

Comprehensive online Planning Center and project

preparation materials

Fundraising ideas and support

Site selection and organization

Unlimited customer support from professional and

courteous staff

Mission trip handbook for each participant (a

personal devotion book and guide for the week)

Comprehensive safety training at the beginning of

the week

Access to SimplyYouthMinistrys TOOLS, the

ultimate task manager for youth workers

Who can participate?

We offer trips for both junior high and senior high

students. Participants that are at least 12 years old or

entering 7th grade in the fall of 2015 can attend a Jr/Sr

high Workcamp. Participants that are at least 14 years old

or entering 9th grade in the fall of 2015 can attend a senior

high Workcamp. No special skills are required.

How many adults should we bring?

Adults (age 21 and above) are a critical part of the

experience because they help provide safety, relationships,

spiritual guidance, and discipline. Please bring a minimumof one adult for every five youth.

How are crews organized?

A typical crew is a group of five young people and one

adult. Each crew usual ly includes participants from a

variety of churches so that they can meet new people. If

youd rather have your teenagers serve with your own

group members, call us and wel l gladly accommodate your

request.

What about transportation?

You need to provide transportation for your group to and

from your mission trip. And during your mission trip, the

vehicles you bring will be used to provide daily transporta-

tion to and from project sites. If you intend to bring a large

bus, check with your tr ip advisor to be sure your trip loca-

tion can accommodate it.

Where do we stay?

Most lodging is in local schools or churches. Accommoda-

tions will include areas for groups to room together by

gender, a common eating area, and a program area.

What happens if the trip I want is full?

All trips are fi lled on a first-come, first-served basis, so

register early. However, if you register for a trip thats full,

well give you a choice: Join the waiting list for your first

choice, or register for your second-choice location. Call us.

Were eager to help!

WO

RKCAMPSHOMEREP

AIR

MISSIONS

LEARN MORE BY CALLING BRIORBRENTAT 800-385-4545 EXT 2


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We understand students in your ministry have a difficult time making up their minds about what they are

doing every summer. Our Payment Policy is designed to give you the most flexibility when reserving your

mission experience with Group Mission rips.

o make it easier for fundraising and record-keeping, weve broken your payment into three convenient steps:

PAYMENT POLICY

Payment 1:A nonrefundable deposit

($50 per person) is required at the time of

registration to reserve space on your trip.

Payment 2:50% of your

groups remaining balance

is due March 15, 2015.*

Payment 3:Your remaining

balance is due May 15,

2015.**

Register SOON! Heres why:You can register your group without having to make a deposit until

October 31, 2014 with Early Bird Registration that begins June 1, 2014. his special offer lets you

hold spaces for free and delay the deposit until October 31, 2014.

* Registration fees are in U.S. dollars and can be paid by check, money order, or credit card.

** All payments are due, finalized, and non-refundable by the May 15, 2015 payment date.

A TYPICAL WORKCAMP DAY

6:45 AM RISE AND SHINE

7:00 AM HOT BREAKFAST

8:00 AM MORNING PROGRAM

8:30 AM DEPART FOR PROJECTS

3:30 PM RETURN TO CAMP

5:00 PM DINNER

7:30 PM EVENING WORSHIP PROGRAM

8:45 PM YOUTH GROUP DEVOTIONS

9:30 PM FREE TIME

11:00 PM LIGHTS OUT

WORKCAMPS

HOMEREPAIR

MISSI

ONS

Workcamp has the perfect

combination of hard work and

faith-building. The youth know they

have done something worthwhile,

and they have a chance to share

their faith with peers in a safe andsupportive environment.

JUSTIN KELLYYOUTH LEADER INWHITE BEAR LAKE, MN


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1 MISSION.

17 CITIES8,000 ATTENDEES



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LEARN MORE BY CALLING BRIAT800-385-4545 EXT 2

Four or five days of service. A lifetime of rewards.

Week of Hope is an affordable summer mission trippacked with practical acts of love and service. Your

students will build meaningful connections as they

serve people through local ministries and nonprofit

organizations.

Teenagers will learn Christ-like empathy and compassion

for others as they meet the spiritual, physical, and

emotional needs of disadvantaged children, youth, and

adults. As students serve in the name of Jesus, theyll

develop friendships with the people being served,

with teenagers on other teams, with members of their

own youth group, and, most importantly, with Jesus.

Denominational differences disappear as like-minded

youth work together for a common purpose. Its awesome

to watch!

Week of Hope meets the needs of all age groups

wherever those needs exist. Projects might include:

Providing meals to the homeless

Tutoring poor or struggling children

Helping to lead a day camp for kids

Organizing a home or sprucing up a dilapidated home

Painting a room or deep-cleaning a home

Working with disabled children

Sharing stories with a lonely elderly person in an

assisted-living facility

Your teams acts of kindness will mean the world to the

people you serve. But the impact on your students will go

even deeper. Spiritual growth is a top priority at all of our

camps, and through meaningful worship and devotions,

the lessons learned will take root in the hearts of your

youth.

Each day students will enjoy meaningful worship and

devotion times, plus opportunities for personal devotions.

Theyll spend time together and connect more deeply with

Jesus. Programs are led by a well-trained staffbut you

and your youth will have the chance to serve by leading

parts of each worship program. (Feel free to bring guitars,

drums, harmonicas, banjos, and great voices!) Along

with the the worship times, youth are able to serve other

participants by preparing meals and cleaning the lodging

facility dai ly.

Turn the page and take a closer look at this years Week

of Hope mission trips. Your group will be immersed in

the experience of being others-directed instead of

self-directed, and challenged to live as Jesus didin

authentic, sacrificial relationships.

COMMUNITY SERVICEMISSION TRIPS

WEEKOFHOPECO

MMUNITYSERVICETRIPS


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SERVING A COMMUNITY

At Week of Hope, campers provide helping hands to local nonprofit ministries. Your group mayserve meals to the homeless, work with disabled children, or share stories with a lonely elderly

person. Whatever role your students fill, their service will be felt in the community and will be

a shining example of Jesus love.

DAY CAMP PROGRAMSPlay games with children and send the affirming

message that they matter.

NURSING HOMESServe the forgotten in long-term nursing care

facilities.

WEEKOFHOPECOMMUNITYSERVICETRIPS



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community service youth mission trips

HOMELESS SHELTERSServe hundreds of hungry homeless folks.

RECOVERY PROGRAMSServe nonprofit agencies that couldnt operate

without your help.

ASSISTED-LIVINGFACILITIES

Give attention and love to

disabled children.

Weekofhopecommunityservice

WEEKOFHOPECO

MMUNITYSERVICETRIPS

PAGE 27


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WEEKOFHOPECOMMUNITYSERVICETRIPS

DESIGNED FOR PRETEENS

PRETEEN 4TH

6TH

GRADERS

Preteen Week of Hope is a great mission experience that your 10- to 12-year-old students will never

forget! Helping younger students explore their faith is one of the most important and fulfilling

responsibilities you have as a leader. Research suggests that by the time kids are 13, their basic value

systems are set for life. We created

Preteen Week of Hope trips to

respond directly to this aspect of

your ministry.

Over my long ministry career of working with preteens, Ive seen service

projects and mission trips change thousands of young lives. hats why I

was so excited when the team at Group Mission rips called and asked me to

help them redesign their preteen experience. ogether, I think weve created

something special for your students.

KURT JOHNSTONSTUDENT MINISTRIES PASTOR, SADDLEBACK CHURCH

San Diego, CA June 2125 $219

Fort Collins, CO June 1418 $249

Orlando, FL July 1216 $219

Pasadena, MD June 2125 $249

Minneapolis, MN June 28July 2 $236

York, PA July 1216 $246

Charleston, SC July 59 $246

Austin, X July 1923 $246

Kenosha, WI July 2630 $236

LOCATIONS & PRICES



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community service youth mission trips

WEEKOFHOPECO

MMUNITYSERVICETRIPS

JR/SR HIGHYour students will build meaningful connections as they serve people

through local ministries and nonprofit organizations. But the impact

on your students will go even deeper, as they will experience Christ-like

empathy and compassion first-hand.

LOVE OTHERS INPRACTICAL WAYS

June 14 - 19

June 21 - 26

June 28 - July 3

July 5 - 10

July 12 - 17

July 19 - 24

July 26 - 31

Most Week ofHope locations

are ofered these

seven weeks:Fort Collins, CO $249

San Diego, CA $239

WEST

Cincinnati, OH $256

Grand Rapids, MI $266

Indianapolis, IN $266

Kenosha, WI $256

Minneapolis, MN $256

St. Louis, MO $266

WEST

Austin, X $266

Charleston, SC $266

Nashville, N $266

Orlando, FL $239

WEST

Manassas, VA $266

Newark, NY $266

Pasadena, MD $269

Pittsburgh, PA $266

York, PA $266

WEST

PAGE 29


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Weekofhope

communityservice

A TYPICAL WEEK OF HOPE DAY

WEEKOFHOPECO

MMUNITYSERVICETRIPS

6:45 AM RISE AND SHINE

7:00 AM HOT BREAKFAST

8:00 AM MORNING PROGRAM

8:30 AM DEPART FOR PROJECTS

3:30 PM RETURN TO CAMP

5:00 PM DINNER

7:30 PM EVENING WORSHIP PROGRAM

8:45 PM YOUTH GROUP DEVOTIONS

9:30 PM FREE TIME

11:00 PM LIGHTS OUT

TIFFANY TAYLORCHILDRENS PASTORCOMMERCE CITY, CO

I am bringing a group to a Week

of Hope this summer because:

Plugging teens into missions is

such a reward. Seeing them bond

with each other and connect with

Jesus all while serving others is anamazing way to get their feet wet

and give them a passion and

heart for others.





PAYMENT POLICY









2015.**




* Registration fees are in U.S. dollars and can be paid by check, money order, or credit card.

** All payments are due, finalized, and non-refundable by the May 15, 2015 payment date.


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1 MISSION.

40 ADVENTURES1,500 TRAVELERS

PAGE 32 / LEARN MORE AT LIFETREEADVENTURES.COM


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Id like to introduce you to Lifetree Adventures by

getting to know you.

Are you a person with a heart to serve and a desireto make your life count? Someone who wants to

serve internationally, but needs to know that your

efforts will make an impact long after you leave? Do

you want to grow in ability to serve Jesus in other

cultures and learn to pass that skill on to others?

If the answers to any of those questions resonate

with you, a Lifetree Adventure might be the perfect

match for your next mission experience.

Some mission efforts focus on helping the poor;

others concentrate on the personal spiritual growth

that occurs in the life of a participant. At Lifetree

Adventures, our focus is on both. Weve partnered

with tenured ministries that are rooted in the

countries we serve. As youre reading this, they are

passionately serving and loving their neighbors,

working to meet physical and spiritual needs in

Jesus name. When we arrive, we come alongside

their efforts. Because of these trusted, established

partnerships, you can know that your week ofservice is truly helpful.

Our teamboth local and abroadhas carefully

crafted the week, the conversations, and the

entire experience in a way that helps you grow in

your faith. hrough guided discussions, candid

conversations, and a participant journal that are

all created by international missions experts, your

relationship with Jesus and understanding of what

he can do in and through you will never be the

same.

New this year, weve created 5 mission events that

are exclusively Youth Group Only. Designed by

Group Mission rips, these trips will have a similar

heartbeat and programming of a Workcamp or

Week of Hope, but will have the international

expertise of Lifetree Adventures. We are launching

these weeks with the youth leader in mind: We takecare of all the details of the trip so you can have an

incredible time of ministry and connection with

your students. Look for the label Youth Group

Only to find out more about these options. As

always, any of the other Lifetree Adventures trips

are for all ages, from 7 to 97 and beyond. Families,

youth groups, individuals, college studentsall are

welcome.

Weve taken thousands of people on mission trips

abroad, and weve seen Jesus do amazing things

both in and through the goers who take that extra

step of faith to go beyond their own borders. We

look forward to locking arms with you, your group,

and the Savior for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure!

INTERNATIONALMISSION TRIPS

LEARN MORE BY CALLING ROBINAT 800-747-2157OR VISITING LIFETREEADVENTURES.COM

L

IFETREEADVENTUR

ESINTERNATIONALTRIPS


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TRIPS FOR YOUTH GROUPS

HAITI$799 PER PERSON(price does not include airfare)

June 2027 Cap Haitien

Haiti still needs your help. Come serve with

Lifetree Adventures as we partner with an

outstanding ministry that provides critical

services for Haitians. Our partners in Cap

Haitien run an established seminary, training

Haitians to become pastors, leaders, and in-

novators in their communities. he seminary

is run by full time missionaries, and we are

locking arms with these folks whove given their

lives to helping their neighbors. hrough local

church partnerships, your group might run a

kids VBS program, or a multi-day youth camp.

Your group may also be involved in construction

and upkeep projects on the seminary grounds.

Whatever the service project, youll experiencewhat its like to see real need, and to be a part of

the solution in Cap Haitien.

PUERTO RICO$625 PER PERSON(price does not include airfare)

July 1118 Juana Diaz

July 1825 Ponce

Are you looking for a trip to broaden your

groups horizons and expand comfort zones

but arent quite ready to deal with the hassle of

passports and expensive international flights?

Serving in Puerto Rico with your group is agreat option for a first-time international

mission trip. Even though Puerto Rico is a U.S.

territory, Spanish is widely spoken there and

its easy to forget you are still on American soil

while serving the many underprivileged people

who call this beautiful island home.

Passports are not needed to travel to Puerto

Rico, and flights are fairly reasonable, which

makes it a popular spot for youth groups or

first-time travelers. However, Puerto Rico is

the economically poorest part of the United

States, with children, teenagers, and the elderly

being particularly vulnerable to extreme pov-

erty. When you serve with Lifetree Adventures

in Puerto Rico, you will provide much-needed

home repair, maintenance, yard work, and

cleaning to elderly or disabled individuals who

can no longer care for their homes effectively ontheir own. Come be a part of what Jesus is doing

through the local church in Puerto Rico.

LIFETREEADVENTURES

INTERNATIONALTRIP

S

Designed for youth groups, with the youth leader in mind. hese combine strong, international grassroots partnershipswith Group Mission rips Youth Ministry expertise.



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WEEK OF HOPE & WORKCAMPS 800-385-4545 EXT 2 LIFETREE ADVENTURES 800-747-2157GIVE US A CALL AT 800-385-4545 EXT 2 OR VISITGROUPMISSIONTRIPS.COM

COSTA RICA$899 PER PERSON(price does not include airfare)

June 2027 San Jos

Costa Rica has long been recognized as a spec-

tacular tourist destination. However, there are

many areas of Costa Rica that have people who

live in extreme poverty. Weve partnered with

local churches and ministries who are already

making an impact on the ground. If you travel

with us to Costa Rica, youll have the opportu-

nity to serve those in need with your hands and

your heart. Some of the ministry opportunities

you may be involved in are construction and

repair of homes, vacation Bible school for kids,

and supporting local ministries through volun-

teer efforts. Bring your students and help make

a lasting difference in Costa Rica.

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC$799 PER PERSON(price does not include airfare)

July 1118 Santiago

he Dominican Republic shares an island with

the country of Haiti, and has a population of

around 9 million people. Our local ministry

partner there has built in-roads and relation-

ships with the Dominicans, sharing Jesus love

there for years. You and your group will come

alongside this ministry and help with basic

construction, vacation Bible school, sports

camps, and youth outreach events. Imagine your

students connecting and sharing Jesus love

with Dominican students, building life-impact-

ing relationships in the process. Join us in the

Dominican Republic for a one-of-a-kind mission

experience. L

IFETREEADVENTUR


partnered with:

Youth Ministry program, devotionals, and experienceon an international mission trip. Plan now to give yourstudents a powerful spiritual-growth experience nextsummer!

PAGE 35


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TRIPS FOR EVERYONE

HAITI$799 PER PERSON(price does not include airfare)

July 1118 Cap Haitien June 1320 Gressier

July 1118 Gressier

Haiti still needs your help. Come serve with

Lifetree Adventures as we partner with an

outstanding ministry that provides critical

services for Haitians. Our partners in Haiti are

established ministries and churches that are

in the trenches making a real difference in the

lives of some of the poorest people in the world.

Haiti still needs our help, and by locking arms

long-term with ministries like this, were ableto see a real impact. From orphanage ministry,

construction, VBS and youth programs, weve

done the leg work to make sure that you and

your group have a meaningful week of service in

one of the most desperate places in this hemi-

sphere. Choose between Cap Haitien on the

north coast, and Gressier just one hour west of

Port Au Prince.

LIFETREEADVENTURES

INTERNATIONALTRIP

S

ECUADOR

$899 PER PERSON

(price does not include airfare)

June 2027

Ecuador, located in the midwestern part of South America andbordered by Columbia and Peru, is rich in tradition and diverse

cultures. Most of the Ecuadorian people are Mestizo, a combina-

tion of European (Spaniards) and indigenous Quichua Indians.

Our ministry partner has a variety of projects going on, reach-

ing the local community with the love of Jesus. You may help

with construction or maintenance on ministry buildings, or

homes for the poor. You might serve in an orphanage or with

kids in the jungle communities, playing games with kids and providing

assistance as needed. You also might be part of a local soccer outreach

club, playing soccer and building relationships with Ecuadorians. Comeand be a part of what God is doing through the local church in Ecuador.

AFRICA-BURKINA FASO

$1,199 PER PERSON(price does not include airfare)

June 2028

Burkina Faso, Africa,

is a landlocked country

located just north of

Ghana and west ofNigeria. With recent

droughts, Burkina Faso

has slipped even further into extreme poverty,

as many citizens survive by sustenance farm-

ing. Our partner in Burkina Faso has been on the

ground striving to improve the community living

conditions, building inroads to share the love of

Jesus at every

opportunity. Have you ever dreamed of helping

in Africa? If you travel with us to Burkina Faso,you may be involved in construction or other

work projects, kids Bible studies and outreach,

or community improvement including teaching

English or life skills to community members.

Bring an open heart and a willingness to serve

in one of the most desperate areas of the world.


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L

IFETREEADVENTUR


COSTA RICA$899 PER PERSON(price does not include airfare)

March 714 San Jos

March 1421 Grano De Oro

July 1118 San Jos

July 1825 Grano De Oro

Costa Rica has long been recognized as a spec-tacular tourist destination. However, there are

many areas of Costa Rica that have people who

live in extreme poverty. Weve partnered with

local churches and ministries who are already

making an impact on the ground. If you travel

with us to Costa Rica, youll have the oppor-

tunity to serve those in need with your hands

and your heart. Some of the ministry opportu-

nities you may be involved in are construction

and repair of homes, vacation Bible school for

kids, and supporting local ministries through

volunteer efforts. Bring your students and

help make a lasting difference in Costa Rica.

CUBA$1,299 PER PERSON(price does not include airfare)

March 1421 June 1320

July 1825In 1959, Castros revolution completely

transformed Cubas culture and government,

and the church was greatly affected. But in

the last decades, God has been at work, and

the church has been growing. And while the

relationship between Cuba and the United

States has had a troubled history, Americans

are permitted to travel to Cuba for certain

purposesincluding religious, humanitari-

an, and educational. We have partnered with

strong local ministries in Cuba to give you

and your group a once-in-a-lifetime opportu-

nity to serve, partner, and make a difference

in Cuba.

ALASKA$799 PER PERSON(price does not include airfare)

July 1118

July 25August 1

Alaska has both breathtaking scenery for tourists and hope-draining challenges for some of its elderly year-

round residents. Your group is needed to bring hope in the form of landscaping and home-repair projects for

older families who are no longer able either physically or financially to care for their own property. Youll

build a strong sense of community with your team while you tackle these meaningful service projects. By

the end of the week, youll be receiving as much blessing as youre giving while you serve in the name of

Christ. Please come both to give your heart away and to have your breath taken away by the amazing beauty

of both the land and the people of Alaska.


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LEARN MORE BY CALLING ROBINAT 800-747-2157OR VISITING LIFETREEADVENTURES.COM

How do I book my mission trip with Lifetree Adventures?

Just call any one of our expert mission trip advisors at

800-747-2157.

Is airfare from North America included in the

Lifetree Adventures price?

No, the Lifetree Adventures price does NO include

airfare from North America. In-country transportation is

provided in the trip price. In Peru, our price includes the

airfare from Lima to Pucal lpa. In Cuba, our price includes

charter flight air fare from Miami to Havana.

What travel documentation do I need?

All U.S. citizens need a valid passport to enter a foreign

country and return to the United States. It must be valid

six months beyond your intended stay and have 1-2 blank

pages remaining. A passport is not required for trips to

Puerto Rico.

Visas are not required for most trips. For ful l information,

please ask your mission trip planner at time of booking.

Is there an age requirement?

Our trips are family-friendly, so kids can serve along with

adults. he minimum age is 12 years old when not accom-

panied by a parent or guardian. When parents are present,

children as young as 7 may attend. eenagers traveling

unaccompanied without a group, parent, or guardian must

be at least 16 years old.

Whats your policy on deposits, payments,

and cancellations?

o reserve space on a trip, a nonrefundable $100 deposit

is due when you register. Final payment is due 60 days

before departure. Please visit our website for complete

details of our cancellation policy.

Are all meals included in the cost?

Most meals are covered as part of your registration. Please

see the detailed itinerary of your Lifetree Adventures trip

for any exceptions.

How strenuous are the activities?

While some adventures are more physically strenuous

than others, most Lifetree Adventures trips wi ll include at

least four 8-hour serv ice days in hot and humid environ-

ments. eam members should feel comfortable spending

multiple days working outdoors and standing most of that

time. emperatures may be hot and humid, so youll want

to wear cool clothing and a hat, and drink plenty of water.

Service projects consist primarily of construction work,

but some trips include ways to help that arent as physi-

cally strenuous. Youll have the chance to work at the level

of physical exertion with which youre comfortable.

What types of meals are served?

Most meals will be provided by our ministry partners,

who have been carefully trained to prepare safe and nutri-

tious meals for our teams.

Are the trips safe?

he safety of your group is a top priority for us, as were

sure it is for you. In all the areas we serve, we take extra

precautions to make sure your group is as safe as they can

possibly be. Guided by our local, experienced ministrystaff partners, we avoid situations that are inherently

dangerous. Were also proactive by choosing lodging facili-

ties and transportation that are safe and reliable. If you

have specific safety-related questions about a particular

location, your mission trip planner will be glad to talk

with you about those specifics.

Are tips included in the cost?

Lifetree Adventures covers gratuities for all included

meals and activities, such as tips for porters, housekeep-

ers, drivers, activity providers, local experts, and diningroom staff.

WHAT TO KNOW

L

IFETREEADVENTUR



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MEET OUR TEAM

The Group Mission Trips team and our partner team at Simply Youth Ministry work closely

together and form a collection of super-hero support. Were here to serve you.





PAYMENT POLICY










* Registration fees are in U.S. dollars and can be paid by check, money order, or credit card.** All payments are due, finalized, and non-refundable by the May 15, 2015 payment date.

WE LOVE SERVING YOUTH WORKERS!



2015.**


43/44


REGISTER NOW!

Here are your three easy options for registering:

Call 800.385.4545 EXT 2

Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm

(Mountain Time)

For International trips:

Call 800.747.2157

Register with your credit card

on: GroupMissionTrips.com

For International trips:

LifetreeAdventures.com

Fill out the registration form and

mail with a deposit check to:

Group Cares

1515 Cascade Avenue

Loveland, CO 80538

Starting October 31, 2014, a $50 nonrefundable deposit is required from each participant. Deposits are non-transferable to camp balances. Please only register the number of

partic ipants that you intend to bring. However, you can add more participa nts until the camp reaches its capacity by calling your Registration Team 1-800-385-4545, option 3.

CHOOSE A GROUP MISSION TRIP

[ ] Workcamps [ ] Week of Hope [ ] Lifetree Adventures

SELECT YOUR MISSION TRIP

First Option Date Fee

Second Option Date Fee

RESERVE SPACE

Please register a minimum of 1 adult for every 5

students. If you register both males and females,

sign up at least 1 adult male and 1 adult female.

PRIMARY CONTACT

Name

Please Send Correspondence to: [ ] My Church [ ] My Home

Address

City State Zip

Daytime Phone Email Address

CHURCH INFORMATION

Church Name

[ ] My church has attended a previous Group

Mission Trip

CHECK YOUR PAYMENTOPTION BELOW

[ ] Early Bird Registration

This special ofer lets you hold your spot and

pay no deposit until October 31, 2014.

[ ] Check Enclosed to Group Cares $

Check #/MO #

[ ] Please contact me for my credit card infor-

mation to nalize my registration.

Space for participants under age 21

+Space for adult participants

=Total registered participants

321

SIGN UP NOW AND CHALLENGE YOUR TEENAGERS

WITH A WEEK OF CHRISTIAN SERVICE AND FUN!

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GIVE YOUR STUDENTS A JESUS-CENTEREDEXPERIENCE THEYLL NEVER FORGET.

GROUP MISSION TRIPS

c/o Group Cares

1515 Cascade Avenue

Loveland, CO 80538

NON-PROFITORGANIZATIONU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDBOLINGBROOK, IL

PERMIT 1917

2015 group mission trips catalog

Documents