Leaders: Joey McMullen, Jaime McMullen, Mary and Tim Schweigert
Cost: $850
Dates: March 7-13, 2026
Student Application Form
Description: This team will be partnering with Appalachia Reach Out in Inez, Kentucky. Their mission is to be Christ’s love in action through being His hands, His feet, His heart, and His mission each day, every day, in all we do. This happens by showing Christ’s love through assisting our neighbor in a holistic approach so they can become disciples of Christ. ARO is honored and privileged to partner with churches, businesses, ministries, and individuals to carry out the love of Christ through the Great Commission in our community. This team’s ministry activities at ARO might include: tutoring/workshops in county schools (this is primary), ministry/worship time at several local addiction recovery care centers, assistance with the ARO thrift store, campus upkeep, community improvement projects, and possibly a tour of and education about the local prison systems.
General Requirements:
- For trips outside the USA, you must have/apply for a U.S. Passport that is valid at least 6 months AFTER the last day of the trip (this cost is your responsibility).
- Physically capable of carrying all personal bags/luggage and participating in all activities. Make leaders aware of any limitations you may have. Some locations cannot accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Clear all screening: Academic, Student Accounts, ResLife, Chapel, Student Development
- Acceptance of a no cell phone policy except a one-time check in with family per week
- ALL Ministry Trip Students must attend ALL dates. Exceptions will only be made for student athletes if prior notice is given to Shalom Office during the application process:
- Information Meeting: October 8th, 5-6PM, Wisner room 137
- Applications due: October 15th at midnight
- Getting Started Session: November 8th at 9am
- January 30th or January 31st: Pre-Training Team Time
- Training sessions: February 7th and February 21st 9am12pm
- Commission Night: Friday, February 27th at 6pm (Spring Break)
- Commission Night: Friday, May 1st at 6 pm (Summer Break)
Social/Emotional Requirements:
- Commit to and cooperate within a diverse team of peers, leaders, and local community.
- Be respectful and be willing to follow the instructions of all authority: team leaders, site hosts, staff, etc.
- Emotionally stable, able to handle stress appropriately. Have personal coping skills for high anxiety-inducing situations.
- Be very flexible. Plans are subject to change daily for a variety of reasons.
- Be respectful and adaptable to the unique culture, whether domestic or international.
Financial Requirements:
- A non-refundable deposit (approximately 10% of the total cost) is required to secure a spot on the team upon acceptance.
- Trip cost includes all expenses EXCEPT passport fees, visa fees, immunizations, and souvenirs. A stipend will be given for travel meals, but it may not cover the full amount of food costs.
- The entire cost of the trip will be paid in full before departure, no exceptions.