Ireland
Ireland boasts a heritage of Christianity through Catholicism. Yet
the lifeless display of faith reveals that this nation is farther from
God than ever. Rampant alcoholism and suicide rates reveal a desperate
need for hope. Through sports, children's outreach, street evangelism, pub ministry, and the
relationships that just happen along the way, the World Race reintrodues a life-giving faith to this beautiful, historic culture.
Ukraine
Caught between its past oppression under the USSR communist regime and the desire to be accepted by Western society, Ukraine is a land of many ups and downs. Thankfully, there's hope, light, and life spreading like wildfire throughout this nation. Is it the kingdom of God coming in power? We think so.
Romania
The northern regions of Romania are home to the gypsy people. Though
strangers in their homeland and forgotten by society, the gypsies are a
strong and vibrant people who embrace the light of Christ in an
inspirational way. Here you'll teach English, lead sports camps, live
life with the gypsies, and more.
Israel
The Holy Land attracts Jews, Arabs and Christians alike to be a part of
a location so rich in our combined religious roots. Serve in this new
World Race location while walking the paths trod by Christ himself.
Egypt
Egypt is a country rich in historical significance. The Egyptian people are no less rich in their cultural goings-on today. A country shaped by the past and under religious bondage, the people of Egypt are hungry to hear of the freedom brought through Christ. While pyramids and palaces give the land a romanticized veneer, under the surface lie hearts in need of relationship and hope.
Kenya
Who hasn't heard of Kenya in their lifetime? The Kenyan people are
colorful, musical, artistic and hungry for the love of Christ. The Masai bush, the Nairobi metropolis, the Kiberra slums...comprise a
country diverse yet unified in history. As a
new era dawns in Kenya, so does the Gospel of truth and faith. By
meeting felt needs in the bush and the city, the World Race produces lasting
fruit and lasting ministries to carry on even after we leave.
Uganda
From the Ugandan islands to the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, the African
people of these nations share a common bond. Through the wild lands,
home to Africa's "Big Five" animals coexist people, reached and
unreached with the Gospel of Christ. Through evangelism, church
planting and discipleship, we will be a part of a movement to further
the kingdom of God in this incredible region of the world.
Pioneer Africa
Twice during your World Race experience, your team will take a month to ATL (ask the Lord) for a new mission field. He may lead you someplace in the middle of a buzzing city or somewhere that can't even be found on a map. Either way, it's a time of listening to the Lord's voice and following him with true abandon. Uncover more of your inheritance...
Thailand
With nearly two million people estimated to be stuck inside of prostitution in Thailand, it has become one of the most popular places for sex tourism. Change lives in the city and rock worlds in the countryside. Thailand's sure to capture your heart.
Cambodia
28 years ago, Cambodia experienced one of the most gruesome genocides
known to man where over one third of the country's population was
slaughtered. Still in recovery from their past, the people of Cambodia
are thirsty for hope.
Pioneer Asia
Ask God where to go and do what He tells you. It'll be one of the most adventurous and memorable months of ministry that you'll have on the Race. Back to Thailand or Cambodia, or maybe to Vietnam, China or Malaysia... God could lead you anywhere to unveil His kingdom. Are you willing to abandon your last month on the Race to Him?
Want to know more about the World Race? CONTACT US!
Interested in going on the World Race? APPLY HERE!
2Posted by Matt (WR Staff) on 10/13/2009 2:33:28 PM
Awesome, Jamie!
3Posted by Hope Baek on 10/15/2009 9:27:02 AM
i have a strong desire to go. But how do i afford it?
4Posted by Karen on 10/15/2009 6:47:58 PM
Ive known about World Race since I went on a Real Life trip to India in January of 08, and each time i get these e-mails its like im glued to the screen-soaking in every detail! In other words I am also praying about it!!!
5Posted by Jeff (AIM Staff) on 10/16/2009 10:17:11 AM
That's awesome, Karen.
6Posted by Samantha on 10/18/2009 11:10:33 PM
I am just like Karen...totally mezmorized. The Lord has totally put this tour on my heart, but I'm not going to turn 21 until December 2010!
7Posted by Samantha on 10/18/2009 11:12:05 PM
Can anyone tell me what "pioneer Asia" and "pioneer Africa" is?
8Posted by Clinton (Jan 07 WR) on 10/20/2009 11:15:42 AM
To "Pioneer" a location means to go somewhere "new" under the Lord's leadership. It's an exciting...and daunting, exercise in "listening" prayer- to seek God and go wherever He leads within a particular region, even if The World Race has never been there before.
9Posted by Ashley Robichaud on 10/31/2009 9:46:22 PM
Do we know the exact date in June this would start? That you would be required to start the whole thing?
10Posted by Matt (WR Staff) on 11/2/2009 10:18:39 AM
Hey Ashley!
Usually the Race will launch within the first week of the month. There's not an official launch date yet for June 2010, but again, it's typically during the first week of the month.
11Posted by Amanda on 11/2/2009 12:47:51 PM
It is a dream of mine to be able to go on a World Race one of these days. My heart aches to be able to go on one of these trips. This one is like the mother load! I'm a student so I don't think I can go. But how much does it cost and how long is it?
It's a good dream to want to go on the Race (but I'm also biased because I'm an alumni). I'm just going to throw this thought out there (not saying that you shouldn't finish your education), but you might check into going through a "gap year". Seth Barnes wrote a little about it here: http://www.sethbarnes.com/?filename=its-time-for-americans-to-discover-the-gap-year
13Posted by Andrea on 11/4/2009 8:58:51 PM
I'm going to apply this week!! I've been searching for something and I'm so confident that this is exactly where God wants me to be! Those of you who want to do it, but are a bit nervous about the fundraising, don't let that hold you back!! Through God all things are possible. I absolutely cannot wait for this, and I hope I get to meet you all there! :)
14Posted by Matt (WR Staff) on 11/5/2009 9:26:56 AM
Great, Andrea! Looking forward to meeting you...
15Posted by Shaina on 11/7/2009 12:25:55 AM
I want to go... What is involved in the application process??
16Posted by Tiffany on 11/9/2009 1:13:03 AM
I have had this trip on my heart and in my prayers since before the route came out. After seeing the route over a month ago, I am praying more than ever to find out if God's desires are the same as mine for this race.
17Posted by Erin on 11/20/2009 9:56:58 AM
Wow. Where to start!? I have been feeling a strong desire to do "more" to do something that is spiritually significant in the Kingdom of God... I've been feeling called to full time missions, and I just started praying (again) this week that God would show me more what that all looked like (especially what fighting injustice & loving people like He does looks like). Yesterday after I finished doing a worship service I met a guy who had done the world race, I felt immediately like it was an answer to prayer, I asked him if they ever go to Ireland (I've been wanting to do some missions work there for a while now), and he just kind of chuckled because, well... yeah, that is the first destination of this upcoming trip. I'm praying about what to do. Especially with the whole funding thing, but wow. this could be so amazing, and I know that if it's God's will, there will always be a way.
18Posted by Cassie on 11/25/2009 4:24:43 PM
I'm also a student does anyone know if there is a way to join just for 3 months (my summer vacation)?
19Posted by Cassie on 11/25/2009 4:29:17 PM
Sorry found my answer if anyone is wondering there are 1-3 month trips available as well
20Posted by heather on 12/1/2009 6:14:20 AM
I have been to Peru for 2 weeks on a mission trip in high school and loved it. This is an amazing opportunity and I would love to embark on it. however, the price is a concern as well as my job...how does one guarentee they will have a job when they get back, especially in todays society with the way the economy is?
Hey Heather! All of the money for the trip is support raised, so you don't have to pay any of it out-of-pocket. While it might seem like a LARGE number ($14,300), it's actually REALLY easy to support raise that amount. We've had people raise that amount in 2 1/2 weeks (no kidding).
As far as your job is concerned, leaving for the World Race is a huge step of faith. A lot of people leave their jobs, sell their belongings, and embark on this adventure not knowing what's around the corner when they get back. You might be able to work a deal out with your employer though.
22Posted by Matthew Oh on 12/7/2009 9:11:31 PM
I really desire to go on a mission trip.
23Posted by Christopher Zamora-Younker on 12/9/2009 4:02:55 PM
hey, my friend karen is leaving on the world race in jan. How can I get involved in this great mission of God?
Haha this popped up on my newsfeed on facebook and I had to click on it! To all the comments...if you feel any TEENY desire to do this...THEN DO IT! TRUST GOD and GO FOR IT!
I leave in less than a month for the January race, and since applying this August God has already begun to change my world. I am leaving my job, belongings, nyc apt etc...and God is working out all the details. So don't wonder how and why...listen to that wisper in your heart and DO IT!
25Posted by Kris Swartz on 12/13/2009 12:17:36 PM
Everyone who is talking about going to the world race will be excited and I totally think you should go. Re4member God put you exactly where you are today for a reason. Go for it, you are important to impact many lives.
Christopher - There are many ways to get involved. 1. Pray for Karen, she will need to be covered in prayer. 2. Financially: participants need to raise close to $15,000 for their trip. They do this all by themselves. 3. Apply for the trip yourself: http://www.theworldrace.org/?tab=apply. 4. Ask Karen how else you can get involved. She may have fundraisers planned that she needs help with or friends she just needs to talk with about the trip.
Jessi - looking forward to reading your blogs and seeing how the Lord uses you and changes you!
Kris - It's so true!
27Posted by Leslie on 12/15/2009 3:16:33 PM
Hi, my friend told me about this, and I am very interested! I am about to graduate in May 2010, and if I did it, I probably would not be able to do it until 2011...anyways, I was wondering about school loans. I have to pay many many school loans and I was wondering how that works out. If they would not make you pay loans for a year since you will be gone. Thanks so much, Leslie
I've talked to YWAM (Youth with a mission) and what they have told me is that you gather a bunch of people that are willing to support you. So when you need to pay bills (Like I have credit cards, phone and school), you would email them and have them support you.
As far as 'deferring' your loans, yes - call them all up and explain your situation. They should be able to work with you from there. If not, then refer to my advice above. Hope this helped! (Im in the saaaaaame boat :P)
xo Heather from LI, NY
30Posted by Jeff on 12/15/2009 10:53:41 PM
Regarding loan payments, you can actually defer them up to three years, if you're unemployed or doing volunteer work. You can read more about this for the Stafford/Perkins loan here: http://www.staffordloan.com/repayment/deferment.php
However, you do need to apply for it. More on that process here: http://banking.about.com/od/loans/a/deferments.htm
And... for a list of deferments visit this page: http://studentaid.ed.gov/students/publications/student_guide/2009-2010/english/postponeloanpayment.htm
31Posted by Leslie on 12/16/2009 4:49:43 PM
Thanks so much Jeff and Heather, that did help!
32Posted by Sharon on 12/16/2009 5:24:12 PM
My son Nathan just got back from his world race and it was awesome to go through it with him. I recommend it to any who are considering it. My only regret is that I am unable to go myself! I understand there being an age limit, but it just bites sometimes. If you ever get a "senior" version, let me know! (I am 48). Praying over all who posted that they were thinking about it that God would work in your lives to give you a definite yes or no and that you would be open enough to Him to hear.
33Posted by Jerad on 12/17/2009 1:39:24 AM
i am praying about going on the july 2010 trip. my only thng is the money, and how i raise it.. i know tht if its gods will the 8 thousand dollars cld be in tomorrow but wat are the funraising steps? and do you have to have experience in missions because this would be my first. and i know tht this wld be an amazing first step into the ministry! afterall god never intended us to only preach the good news within the four walls of our church he intended us to go out and witness and bring a light to the dark and a hope to the hopless. to show his love compassion and grace to the entire world. the is a world out the starving and reaching out for a love like gods so they reach out to every thng but god because they have never heard god. i wld love to bring god to the world but comes back to the funds
Take it from someone who's fundraised for a bunch of things for years:
1. Being that this is a Christian ministry, appeal to your church. Take to your pastor about it first and ask him to let you speak to the congregation. You can start with your testimony, how you found out about this trip, the confirmation God has put on your heart for this, and then appeal for finances. One of the most important things to remember is this - any support is something. People may not have the money, but they will support you spiritually and that's what you'll need most on this trip. ANd also remember - nothing is too small. $10, $20, even $1... it's more than what you started out with.
2. Go to your friends also. Whether or not they're Christian (or religious/spiritual at all), tell them what you'll be doing. Not only are you spreading the Word, but you are restoring lives through building homes, feeding the people, bringing them clothes, etc. So it's physical as well as spiritual restoration.
3. If you have confidence enough, call up a bunch of churches around where you live. Make either a phone or personal appointment to speak to the pastor(s) -lots of churches have missions pastors if the church participates in it-. A lot of times they'll let you speak. Other times they'll just let you put up a poster or flyer. Sometimes even both. Sieze every opportunity.
4. If you go to high school/college, get the school's permission to post up flyers. If you go to college, most campuses have some sort of Christian club (like BASIC). Look into it and find out who the president is. College kids have $10 to spare.
5. If you have any connections with the higher-ups of organizations (like I have connections with the YMCA), they'll support. WHen I do my bike races, I go into stores and ask them to sponsor me. I write out a formal letter, with all the information they need (include website, organization phone number and address, your phone number and address) in an envelope. That way, it wont look like you're some punk trying to cheat people out of money.
6. AIM also has lots of fundraising ideas (I actually did benefit concerts to raise money for my church's organization 'Sarah's House' which is a home for unwed mothers) and we raised A LOT in one night. Try even googling ideas. Get some Christian friends in on your plan and if they're true friends, they'll even help you raise money!
Hope this helped!!
xo Heather from LI
35Posted by Jeff (AIM Staff) on 12/17/2009 10:16:00 AM
Thanks, Heather. Great stuff there, for sure.
Jerad, just to get you started, check out this page: http://www.theworldrace.org/?tab=about&subtab=support-raising-101
As Heather said, we walk thru this process with you. It's not something you have to have figured out before you apply or even commit to a trip. What you DO need to know is that God has called you. As I'm sure you know, he equips those whom he calls, not the other way around.
36Posted by Lloyd Joynt (WR2006) on 12/21/2009 10:59:24 PM
be blessed world racers,
five important words to remember:
Hear God's Voice And Obey
I really would love to go on this trip is sounds awesome i love missions and adventure to new places but the money i just dont know if i would be able to raise that much! But my heart is in misson andI am absolutely interested in this trip.
39Posted by Heather on 12/23/2009 3:02:21 PM
I have started the application process to go on this trip!! I have the calling to become a missionary and that is a great opportunity. I'm praying and I'm asking for your prayers to guide me in the process.
What a great idea! I would love to go on an extended mission trip but with a growing family I just don't see how. At 4 and 1 my children are too young to bring and I couldn't leave them, so the most I can do now is pray for those going on the trip!
Love and Blessings
41Posted by Talia (Staff) on 12/24/2009 11:05:28 AM
Skylar - I would encourage you to keep praying about it and apply. It seems a daunting task, but of the roughly 500 racers we've sent out, the money has come in for all of them. God is always so faithful in providing. If this is what he wants for you, I promise you, he will provide.
Heather - keep us posted! We are praying for you through the process.
Jessica - Thank you so much for your prayers! If you are interested, once your children get a little older, we have a number of mission trips for families. (www.adventures.org) It can be such a great experience to have together.
42Posted by Heather on 12/24/2009 10:23:40 PM
Heyyyyy!!!! Im sorry I havent posted, but I GOT ACCEPTED!!!!!!!! I cant tell you how God has spoken to me these past few weeks... everyday is a new blessing. Im slightly concerned about all the money (and now that its after the holidays, my hours have been seriously cut), but thats just my flesh talking. I know that if Im meant to go, God will provide. God bless all of you who are considering this trip -just say yes and God will provide everything you need!!
Congratulations Heather! We are so excited for you and can't wait to see what God has in store. And he will provide the funds - often in ways we don't expect; but he comes through. Looking forward to meeting you at training camp!
44Posted by Nathan Boaldin on 12/26/2009 1:18:20 AM
Hey guys! I too was recently accepted to join the June 2010 race. I'm so excited to experience our God in new ways through this race. He is already coming through in HUGE ways concerning support raising. It's incredibly exciting to see His orchestration even in the early stages. I hope to see some of you in May! Seek FIRST the Kingdom!
45Posted by Heather on 12/27/2009 3:52:16 PM
Update:
My interview is Tuesday at 2pm. I'm excited but extremely nervous and I have no idea what to expect. Can anyone give me advice or let me know what the interview is like?! Thanks for your prayers. I will be sure and let you know how it goes!
Heather, no need to be extremely nervous! Just be open, honest and simply yourself. The admissions folks are good people. :)
47Posted by Heather on 12/28/2009 7:54:01 AM
Heya Heather (kinda feel like Im talking to myself lol)
The interview is actually pretty liberating. They may ask you things about your past, your present, has God really confirmed this trip for you... you wont be able to stop taking once you start, actually, and they're super nice people. Don't sweat it at all :) Like what sara said - just be open, honest and just be yourself.
I thought they were gunna be like "So, what does Nahum 2:4 say off the top of your head." Haha, they don't do anything like that :P
Heather - praying for your interview today! I am sure it will be great! Sara and the other Heather are right - no reciting the books of the Bible backwards or anything. We just want to get to know you and your heart! Please let us know how it goes!
49Posted by Heather on 12/29/2009 5:00:41 PM
Thanks for the continuing prayers. I got an e-mail saying they needed to postpone my interview until the holidays were over so now it is rescheduled for January 5th at 11am. I'll let everyone know how it goes.
I'm really interested in taking part in the upcoming World Race. I just applied and am praying to get approved. It's been my desire to take part in something like this for as long as I can remember and can't believe this opportunity has arised. I have a silly questions though, by the time the race starts I'll be 24 years old. Is that to old too apply for this race? : ) Is there an age limit for it?
God Bless ya'll!
52Posted by Andrea on 1/5/2010 12:23:00 PM
There may be an age limit, but 24 is definitely not it! I'll be 24 as well and I'm all set to go with the June WR group! Yay! I hope to meet you there :)
53Posted by Erin Oakley on 1/5/2010 12:39:59 PM
If I get accepted and this is in God's will for me, I'll be turning 24 during the world race :) I'm glad to hear there will be other people this age.
54Posted by Anmari Rivera on 1/5/2010 1:07:38 PM
Yay!!!
That makes me feel a lot better. Thanks guys! Congrats Andrea, hope to see you there too! And I wish you the best Erin! Hopefully I get accepted along with you and we can celebrate our birthdays together! : )
Anmari - they are right, 21 is the age min. I turned 24 on the race and it was a great birthday!:) You and Erin both, please keep us posted on your progress! We'll be praying for ya'll in the process!
56Posted by Talia (Staff) on 1/7/2010 1:49:14 AM
Nathan - forgot to post this; but definitely thought it - my b!
We are so excited for you! Ya'll are going to have an amazing time of seeing and working in God's world in a whole new way. Looking forward to meeting you in May!
57Posted by Shannon on 1/8/2010 7:18:21 PM
What is the age limit? I'm 30 right now and this sounds amazing!
58Posted by Anmari on 1/11/2010 10:41:21 AM
Hi there!
My interview is tomorrow and I have to say I'm a bit nervous, not because of the questions, more of not getting accepted. This trip really means a lot to me. It's the answer to many of my prayers for the last fews years. I haven't had much to look forward to lately and this trip has kind of given me a new hope. I'm hoping God will say yes, but I guess all I can do is trust in Him because he knows best. Please say a prayer for me if you get a chance! Hopefully I'll write back soon saying that I've been accepted! :)
Anmari - We will be praying for your interview. I hope you get accepted! But even if it doesn't work out there is a reason and something more he wants to show you. Our God is a faithful God who is always for us.
61Posted by Morrissa on 1/12/2010 9:33:21 PM
I have truly been payering about this trip since last summer, I have applied and have had an interview but postponed it because I was in school. But everyday when I should be studing I am on the website reading blogs and seeing what God is doing with the teams that are out and prayering to about taking a gap year to do His work. How would I reactive my applcation?
Depending on how long ago you applied you may have to reapply. Log in to your account online and you can see if your application is still active. If its still active email info@theworldrace.org and you can begin re-discussing the process.
63Posted by Anmari on 1/16/2010 1:58:05 PM
Hi Everyone!
Just wanted to stop by and let you know that I GOT ACCEPTED!!! Yay!! Thank you for your prayers and well wishes. I can't wait to see what God is going to do in my life and the life of my teamates. I can't wait to see what miracles happen while I raise the funds! : )
Yay!!! Congratulations, I can't wait to meet you :)
65Posted by Morrissa Tucker on 1/16/2010 5:29:59 PM
Congratulations Anmri, It is always great to see how God provides our need. Keep your faith even in the shallow time where you seem like the funds are not coming in. You’re in my prayers.
Hey Guys,
I am excited in how God has been working in me these last few weeks and how God is challenging me to step out in greater faith this year. I have been praying so much about this trip and waiting to see how God is going to use me. I have applied and have my interview on Wednesday, and I am a bit nervous but seeking God for peace. Just asking for your prayers and prayerfully I would be soon part of the team of June 2010 Lord willing.
Hi. I am praying about whether God is calling me to go on one of the world races but I sort of had my faith in being able to hear God's voice clearly lately. I was accepted as a missionary intern to serve in South Africa(through a different organization) and at the last minute(the night before I was to leave) God shut the door. He had moved moutians to get me as far as I had gone and even through I don't understand why He closed that door I know it was for a reason and that there was a reason He had me go through the process of preparing, even if it was just to strenghten my faith in Him. I am taking next weekend to go on a retreat to pray about where God wants me to go from Him and while He has laid the World Race on my heart for the past two years(I wasn't old enough to go), I want to be sure that this is the time He has called for me to go.
So if you guys could just keep me in your prayers to hear God's voice clearly and trust in what every He will call me to do. I would greatly be thankful.
Also, do you have to be 21 when you apply or by the time you leave?
69Posted by Morrissa Tucker on 1/21/2010 2:57:50 PM
Thanks for all the prayers for my interview. Just wanted to let you all know that I was accepted today. Giving God all the praise. I am so excited to meet the team and also to see want God is going to do in my life during this time.
Cassey - You posted this a few days ago, I hope the Lord spoke to you over your weekend retreat. It is a process, for sure, hearing from the Lord. I believe you are right, sometimes it is just to strengthen our faith in Him.
You need to be 21 within the first six months of the race, so you don't have to be 21 when you apply.
Please keep us posted on your journey and what the Lord has for you! We are praying for you!
Morrissa - Congratulations! So excited to have you on board! Looking forward to meeting you at training camp!
I spent January in Cambodia last year and I would strongly encourage people to go! It is a beautiful country with beautiful people. There are so many injustices and hurts in Cambodia due to the Pol Pot Regime genocide and social stratification, and they just need honest love. They are on my heart daily and I plan to go back in the future!
72Posted by Ashley on 3/23/2010 2:45:53 AM
I have felt really lost at what to do with my life here lately, and I prayed and God lead me to this website, and I saw the cost of this trip, and I thought there is no way possible... then I started reading everyone else's post and actual started crying because this is what I really feel I need to be doing. AND anything is possible through God!
73Posted by devin on 3/30/2010 11:56:43 AM
i want to go and teach the word of Jesus my savor pleeeease
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Usually the Race will launch within the first week of the month. There's not an official launch date yet for June 2010, but again, it's typically during the first week of the month.
As far as your job is concerned, leaving for the World Race is a huge step of faith. A lot of people leave their jobs, sell their belongings, and embark on this adventure not knowing what's around the corner when they get back. You might be able to work a deal out with your employer though.
I leave in less than a month for the January race, and since applying this August God has already begun to change my world. I am leaving my job, belongings, nyc apt etc...and God is working out all the details. So don't wonder how and why...listen to that wisper in your heart and DO IT!
Jessi - looking forward to reading your blogs and seeing how the Lord uses you and changes you!
Kris - It's so true!
Visit my blog for updates on what God's doing in my life and tell me what He's doing in yours!
God bless and be good!
xo Heather from Long Island, NY
I've talked to YWAM (Youth with a mission) and what they have told me is that you gather a bunch of people that are willing to support you. So when you need to pay bills (Like I have credit cards, phone and school), you would email them and have them support you.
As far as 'deferring' your loans, yes - call them all up and explain your situation. They should be able to work with you from there. If not, then refer to my advice above. Hope this helped! (Im in the saaaaaame boat :P)
xo Heather from LI, NY
However, you do need to apply for it. More on that process here: http://banking.about.com/od/loans/a/deferments.htm
And... for a list of deferments visit this page: http://studentaid.ed.gov/students/publications/student_guide/2009-2010/english/postponeloanpayment.htm
Take it from someone who's fundraised for a bunch of things for years:
1. Being that this is a Christian ministry, appeal to your church. Take to your pastor about it first and ask him to let you speak to the congregation. You can start with your testimony, how you found out about this trip, the confirmation God has put on your heart for this, and then appeal for finances. One of the most important things to remember is this - any support is something. People may not have the money, but they will support you spiritually and that's what you'll need most on this trip. ANd also remember - nothing is too small. $10, $20, even $1... it's more than what you started out with.
2. Go to your friends also. Whether or not they're Christian (or religious/spiritual at all), tell them what you'll be doing. Not only are you spreading the Word, but you are restoring lives through building homes, feeding the people, bringing them clothes, etc. So it's physical as well as spiritual restoration.
3. If you have confidence enough, call up a bunch of churches around where you live. Make either a phone or personal appointment to speak to the pastor(s) -lots of churches have missions pastors if the church participates in it-. A lot of times they'll let you speak. Other times they'll just let you put up a poster or flyer. Sometimes even both. Sieze every opportunity.
4. If you go to high school/college, get the school's permission to post up flyers. If you go to college, most campuses have some sort of Christian club (like BASIC). Look into it and find out who the president is. College kids have $10 to spare.
5. If you have any connections with the higher-ups of organizations (like I have connections with the YMCA), they'll support. WHen I do my bike races, I go into stores and ask them to sponsor me. I write out a formal letter, with all the information they need (include website, organization phone number and address, your phone number and address) in an envelope. That way, it wont look like you're some punk trying to cheat people out of money.
6. AIM also has lots of fundraising ideas (I actually did benefit concerts to raise money for my church's organization 'Sarah's House' which is a home for unwed mothers) and we raised A LOT in one night. Try even googling ideas. Get some Christian friends in on your plan and if they're true friends, they'll even help you raise money!
Hope this helped!!
xo Heather from LI
Jerad, just to get you started, check out this page: http://www.theworldrace.org/?tab=about&subtab=support-raising-101
As Heather said, we walk thru this process with you. It's not something you have to have figured out before you apply or even commit to a trip. What you DO need to know is that God has called you. As I'm sure you know, he equips those whom he calls, not the other way around.
five important words to remember:
Hear God's Voice And Obey
Love and Blessings
Heather - keep us posted! We are praying for you through the process.
Jessica - Thank you so much for your prayers! If you are interested, once your children get a little older, we have a number of mission trips for families. (www.adventures.org) It can be such a great experience to have together.
xo Heather from LI
My interview is Tuesday at 2pm. I'm excited but extremely nervous and I have no idea what to expect. Can anyone give me advice or let me know what the interview is like?! Thanks for your prayers. I will be sure and let you know how it goes!
The interview is actually pretty liberating. They may ask you things about your past, your present, has God really confirmed this trip for you... you wont be able to stop taking once you start, actually, and they're super nice people. Don't sweat it at all :) Like what sara said - just be open, honest and just be yourself.
I thought they were gunna be like "So, what does Nahum 2:4 say off the top of your head." Haha, they don't do anything like that :P
Good luck and God bless!!!
I'm really interested in taking part in the upcoming World Race. I just applied and am praying to get approved. It's been my desire to take part in something like this for as long as I can remember and can't believe this opportunity has arised. I have a silly questions though, by the time the race starts I'll be 24 years old. Is that to old too apply for this race? : ) Is there an age limit for it?
God Bless ya'll!
That makes me feel a lot better. Thanks guys! Congrats Andrea, hope to see you there too! And I wish you the best Erin! Hopefully I get accepted along with you and we can celebrate our birthdays together! : )
We are so excited for you! Ya'll are going to have an amazing time of seeing and working in God's world in a whole new way. Looking forward to meeting you in May!
My interview is tomorrow and I have to say I'm a bit nervous, not because of the questions, more of not getting accepted. This trip really means a lot to me. It's the answer to many of my prayers for the last fews years. I haven't had much to look forward to lately and this trip has kind of given me a new hope. I'm hoping God will say yes, but I guess all I can do is trust in Him because he knows best. Please say a prayer for me if you get a chance! Hopefully I'll write back soon saying that I've been accepted! :)
Depending on how long ago you applied you may have to reapply. Log in to your account online and you can see if your application is still active. If its still active email info@theworldrace.org and you can begin re-discussing the process.
Just wanted to stop by and let you know that I GOT ACCEPTED!!! Yay!! Thank you for your prayers and well wishes. I can't wait to see what God is going to do in my life and the life of my teamates. I can't wait to see what miracles happen while I raise the funds! : )
Hey Guys,
I am excited in how God has been working in me these last few weeks and how God is challenging me to step out in greater faith this year. I have been praying so much about this trip and waiting to see how God is going to use me. I have applied and have my interview on Wednesday, and I am a bit nervous but seeking God for peace. Just asking for your prayers and prayerfully I would be soon part of the team of June 2010 Lord willing.
So if you guys could just keep me in your prayers to hear God's voice clearly and trust in what every He will call me to do. I would greatly be thankful.
Also, do you have to be 21 when you apply or by the time you leave?
You need to be 21 within the first six months of the race, so you don't have to be 21 when you apply.
Please keep us posted on your journey and what the Lord has for you! We are praying for you!
Morrissa - Congratulations! So excited to have you on board! Looking forward to meeting you at training camp!
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