Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to go on a mission trip?

It can cost anywhere from $400 up to $2,000 per person.  It depends on the country you are going to and the type of trip (construction, sports camp, medical trip, etc.), as well as the number of people on the team.  Usually, the more people that are on the team, the lower the cost will be. 

 Do I have to raise money or can I pay for it myself?

Ideally you are supported 100% by donors - this is a great exercise in faith and trusting in the Lord to provide.  However, we know that financial circumstances are different for each individual person as well as the people that they are sending support letters to.  If you feel that God would best be glorified by paying for your trip yourself and only requesting prayer support from your family and friends, that is fine by us.  The one thing that is required of every person who goes is that they "raise" prayer support and form a team of people who will commit to praying for them before, during and after the trip.  (You will be asked to turn in a list of your prayer partners - that is how serious we are about the prayer support!)

Are the donations for my trip tax-deductible?

Yes - anyone who sends in a donation for your trip will automatically receive a tax receipt at the end of the year.  Checks are preferred, but if someone would like to send cash, they must send their mailing address with it in order to receive the tax receipt. 

Are funds raised at fundraisers tax-deductible?

No - funds received for fundraisers are not considered donations because the giver is receiving something in return for their money.  Therefore, those funds are not tax-deductible.

Do I need a passport?

Yes.  You must have a passport that is more than 6 months away from expiration by the travel dates.  You can get all of the information you need at http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html.  The cost is approximately $100, and you can go to the Bloomington Post Office to have your photo taken.   Processing time is 4-6 weeks, so please plan accordingly.

I'm not sure I'm qualified to go on a mission trip - how can I be sure?

The only thing that you need to be qualified to go on a mission trip is a commitment to sharing the love of Jesus Christ by serving others.  There are no special skills, knowledge, or "spiritualness" needed to do that.  Come as you are and God will take care of the rest. 

I'm interested in leading a mission trip.  What's my first step? 

That's great!  We are always glad to get a new team leader.  Your first step is to contact Tyler Hari and let him know that you're interested, what country you'd like to take your team to, the dates that you'd like to go, and whether or not you already have a team lined up to go with you (for instance, if your small group is all going together.)  He will arrange a meeting with you to discuss what to do from there.  It is important that you begin this process at least six months in advance (or more if you need to recruit other team members.) 

Another tool for you to use in learning about leading a trip is the GO Team Leader Manual.  It contains everything you need to know about being a team leader.