Habitat for Humanity Work Trip Want to have a great time with your youth group. Mix adobe bricks, chocolate colored mud, beautiful vigas, swimming in the Rio Grande after work, and you have an experience no kid will forget. This recipe was cooked up by Habitat for Humanity in Taos, New Mexico and compels me to put in a plug for their excellent service opportunities there and around the world. Habitat for Humanity is known worldwide as a mission to those who desperately want a home of their own. It is a multifaceted ministry, but it’s foundation is still building new homes that hardworking families can buy with no interest loans. These families are chosen carefully and must put in hundreds of hours of “sweat-equity.” The houses are well-built but affordable because of the many hours of free labor donated by the thousands of people who volunteer each year to help with the building. On the building site are the professionals who teach and lead the groups that come to donate their time. In my two experiences with Habitat, we have been led by patient, skilled foreman who have been a joy to work for. Their obvious talent was blended with an enjoyable sense of humor so even the most klutzy of us felt comfortable trying to contribute to the construction effort. An added bonus was the chance to work with another youth group. In our case, we joined a group from Pennsylvania who quickly became our friends as well as co-workers. Sharing communion with them at week’s end was a highlight for both groups. I’d say we worked hard, but not too hard. We learned simple skills and enjoyed meeting the families that would eventually enjoy their new home. Habitat’s schedule also allows for fun and sightseeing. Four days of hard work plus one day off to enjoy the area is a typical stay at a Habitat site. It is usually plenty for those of us not used to the rigors of construction. All in all, it was a fabulous experience that any youth group would benefit from. I’d recommend Habitat for Humanity without reservation for any group looking for a mission project next summer.

About the Author:

Steve Graner is a Christian educator and familyman employed by the Minot, ND Public School District. A licensed laypastor, he is passionate about Christian writing and Christian drama. Along with family and friends, Steve has performed numerous self-written dramas and musicals for area church audiences.