One in every five Americans has a disability…and only 10% of churches in the U.S. are actively reaching out to them. The opportunity is immense.
Families face unique challenges in today's world. When a family is affected by disability, the stress and pressures of daily living are even greater…there's more to do, less time to do it in, and more bills to manage. Leisure time is scarce, if at all, and family time together is hard to come by.
They need to hear the gospel…they need to find hope in Jesus…they need rest…they need to be strengthened and encouraged…and they need to be given the tools to build a healthy family.
Accepting the Challenge
Families from around the country attend Family Retreats seeking relaxation, encouragement, and a time to strengthen their family. Short Term Missionaries - people just like you - serve as the hands and feet of Jesus, offering practical help and assistance to each family.
If you join us, you'll help families experience all the excitement of being at camp: the recreation, the crafts, the games, and the outdoors. Together with other Short Term Missionaries you'll set an example of having fun and being still enough to hear the voice of God.
During the day you'll provide servant leadership with the children and youth…allowing moms and dads to attend seminars, hear passionate biblical teaching, and enjoy time together as a couple. You'll have free time in the afternoon to enjoy various amenities which may include climbing walls and ropes courses, mud pits, water sports and hiking trails. Then after free time you'll join back up with your family for exciting evening events.
Through the simplicity of your service, you'll have the opportunity to build relationships where you can share the gospel…helping others find hope in Jesus.
Equipped for Future Ministry
You don't have to be a professional to be a part of the team. We take care of the planning, medical concerns, and family members handle their own personal care needs. You just need a willing, Christ-like heart.
We'll provide you with helpful training materials for advance preparation. You'll arrive a day before the families for practical training, and you will be briefed on your family so that you know just what to expect. You'll room with other Short Term Missionaries, fellowship together, and find that support is close at hand throughout the week.
Through the experiential training and time of serving, you'll be equipped and encouraged to continue serving in your local church. You'll experience spiritual growth like you never have before.
Our past Short Term Missionaries have ranged from college students to grandparents and both play a vital role.
It takes just six days, and will be one of the best experiences you ever encountered. Please check the Family Retreat schedule for email addresses of the Retreat Directors, who can provide you with Short Term Missionary pricing. We'll even provide tips and tools for raising support!.
Are you ready for an adventure?
The family in today's culture is being tested and stretched like never before. You can make a difference.
When should I apply?
We recommend applying as early as possible. Applications are accepted until a retreat is filled, or up to two weeks before the retreat begins.
How do I apply?
Registration is done through the Retreat Directors for each Family Retreat. Please check the current schedule for contact information.
How much does it cost?
The cost to be a Short Term Missionary varies from retreat to retreat. Please contact the Retreat Director for specific pricing for your retreat. The cost includes five nights of lodging, fourteen meals, training materials, on-site training, site fees and program options.
We do not provide refunds except for cancellations due to an emergency.
What if I can't afford to pay?
Although many Short Term Missionaries pay their way out of their own finances, God has provided the finances for hundreds of Short Term Missionaries each year. If you don't have the finances to serve as a Short Term Missionary, pay what you can and faithfully seek to raise support from others. Many Short Term Missionaries find their own church is willing to invest in sending them as Short Term Missionaries through their missions, local outreach, or disability ministry programs. Others send letters to friends and relatives explaining what they are doing and asking them to help financially. Whichever approach you choose, we'll give you the tools you need to help with raising support.
Raising support means trusting and having faith. If God does not provide the funds, then you will know he did not intend for you to serve. If you decide not to try without giving him the chance to provide, you'll never know.
What are the requirements for Short Term Missionaries?
Family Retreat Short Term Missionaries are committed Christians 17 years or older who have a desire to serve families affected by disability. They are flexible, team players who are able to offer friendship, support, and general assistance to help families get the most out of their week. If you are under 17, check with your Retreat Director for options.
Short Term Missionaries must be able to serve the entire length of the retreat and attend training prior to the retreat. No exceptions are made for late arrival or early departure.
What kind of support and training are provided?
Short Term Missionaries receive a CD ROM and Field Guide that provides the practical resources needed to prepare. Support raising templates, audio files, and educational materials are included on the CD ROM. Onsite training before the families arrive helps Short Term Missionaries understand their specific roles and builds a team atmosphere. Ongoing support is available throughout the retreat by experienced leaders.
What will I be expected to do at camp?
Short Term Missionaries are assigned to a particular family to assist them with some of their needs throughout each day of the retreat. They also help with the child and youth programs and may assist in other retreat duties based on their individual skills. Short Term Missionaries eat meals with their assigned family and join with them in most program activities.
Short Term Missionaries do not provide personal or medical care. Families that need this type of care bring their own personal attendant or nurse.
You will have some free time during the week.
Is transportation provided?
We do not provide transportation to or from Family Retreats. Maps are available online or by request.
If I have a disability, can I still serve as a Short Term Missionary?
Yes, but you must be able to handle length of day and the demands of the Short Term Missionary schedule.
Can I serve as a Short Term Missionary and bring my children?
Some sites can accommodate children of Short Term Missionaries. Contact the retreat leader for your site before applying to see if this is possible.
Is my cost (or donations from my supporters) tax-deductible?
In some cases Short Term Missionaries are able to deduct their cost from their income tax as "expenses while performing charitable activities". We recommend you consult with your CPA or tax advisor regarding the deductibility of your expenses. IRS publication 526 "Charitable Contributions" may help you determine what is appropriate for your situation.
Joni and Friends is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization and a member of the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability. Our federal tax ID number is 95-3402002.
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