Lydia + Noah's Missions Trip
***Initial goal is $2,400 by April 8th deadline!***
Hi! I'm Lydia. I'm a stay at home mom and videographer just outside Springfield, IL. This is my 11-year-old son, Noah! He and I are THRILLED to be heading to South Africa on a missions trip through Calvary Church.
If you know Noah at all, you probably know that he's a BIG saver. He understands the value of a dollar and is thoughtful about how he spends it. When he heard the amount needed for this trip, he changed his mind about going. If I'm being honest, BOTH Noah and I are still terrified of the financial commitment of an overseas missions trip. Each time I've expressed concern to a friend, they reiterate the same thing... FAITH. So, we're taking a big leap of faith and trusting that it will all fall into place. And so far, we haven't been disappointed.
I know we're both going to learn a lot on this missions trip, but even the fundraising process has already lead to so much growth for both of us. We have been touched by and are so thankful for the donations so far.
Here's a brief summary of what we will do, from our trip brochure:
Part of our time will be spent at Jackson's Ridge, which specializes in camps for children from disadvantaged communities. Kids get to experience a safe and loving environment while learning about Jesus. The camp is filled with adventure activities like archery, canoeing, and an obstacle course with a giant climbing wall.
Our team hopes to help sponsor 100 kid to attend one of Jackon Ridge's life-changing camps and will help staff the camp by serving meals, co-leading adventure activities, and doing devotions for the kids. The team will also assist with updates and maintenance to the campgrounds for future campers to enjoy.
The remainder of our time will be spent at Hope Church. Hope Church helps overlooked and hurting children of Africa and its passion is to love on local children who are affected, damaged, neglected, abandoned, orphaned, and dying as a result of the AIDS pandemic sweeping the country.
Our team will host a three-day VBS for the kids from the rural community/village of Freedom Park and help with other ministries and maintenance projects within Hope.
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Personally, I hope to be able to use my skills as a videographer and photographer to create something special for these organizations to a further their mission and assist in fundraising. I'll keep you updated as I gain more specific details on how I will personally be able to contribute.
We look forward to the opportunity to serve and love on the children of South Africa and I am grateful for the opportunity to introduce Noah to other cultures and broaden his worldview and foster an attitude of compassion and servitude.
Financial Details:
Cost of the trip is $3,200 per person. Includes travel, insurances, meals, accommodations, and team building activities.
Our first goal is to raise the $2,400 needed for our deposit by April 8, 2018.
