High School Mission Trip to the Bay Area, June 8-13, 2014

Team members: Alli Bouwman, Lindy Carlton, Courtney Clark, Brennen Deforest, Autumn Gardner, J.J. Garzella, Jake Hanson, Bryce Kirk, Collin Kirk, Kelli Kirk, Aaron Pabst, Jeff Stephenson, Josh Stephenson, Amber Wolff, Athena Zaharias, Thane Zeeh.

The bay area of California is among the nation’s most popular tourist destinations. Just wait for the fog to lift from the San Francisco Bay, and a beautiful city full of cultural attractions will be revealed. But while cable cars travel the steep hills and visitors stroll through the city’s distinctive neighborhoods, there also are thousands of homeless individuals living on the streets and in local shelters. The high cost of living in San Francisco has further increased the problem of poverty. It's a complicated place full of much strength and beauty.

During the week our group partnered with children’s programs that are working to serve the kids in the city throughout the summer months and into the year. They definitely appreciated our energy and willingness to play.  We also had the opportunity to serve the homeless people of the community in many different ways.  We visited the Golden Gate Bridge, a beautiful site with a rich story that is part of the area's history. In the evenings we learned more about the bay area by visiting local sites and through listening to the stories of community members.  We were even able to host a BBQ and invite some of the homeless community to join us.

We are very proud of the group of high school students that joined us on the trip.  We joined members from 2 other youth groups, one from Colorado and one from California. Together with our students, they served meals to the poor and home bound, played with children at the Boys and Girls Club, delivered groceries from the Food Bank to residents in Mercy Housing, worked at the Food Bank and at the Salvation Army too.  All team members remained positive and worked hard.  We truly have an amazing group of Christ-centered kids!