christian mission trips to alaska

Helping People Go and Make Disciples of All Nations

 Alaska

Trip Information

Various locations around Alaska including Anchorage, Tok, and Ketchikan

Summer (June and July)

Max group size: 25. Min group size: 10.

$799 plus airfare

Local church partnership; VBS; evangelism; community service projects and outreach.

Although Alaska is known for its breath-taking beauty and incredible scenery, it is a state marked by significant spiritual darkness. Underneath its beauty, Alaska is fueled by widespread alcoholism (more than any other state) and is a leading state in terms of suicide rate. Unsurprisingly, Alaska has a comparatively lower number of healthy, evangelical churches. Servant Life is excited to be partnering with local churches who are working to reach their communities with the gospel. Each short-term team will be partnering in ministry with a specific local church for the week, while also doing evangelism and outreach at specific community events.

What will my team be doing?  

Each week of ministry could look a little different based on the specific church you are partnering with and the particular needs and ministry opportunities of that church and the surrounding community. Teams will typically be running a VBS in partnership with the church each morning, helping the church share the gospel with local kids and their families. There are also often opportunities for light construction and labor projects around the church or in the community. In the evenings, there are often different ministry opportunities in the Anchorage area: sporting events, concerts in the park, and other events that provide fruitful opportunities for evangelism, sports ministry, and other forms of relational outreach.

What does a general weekly schedule look like?

Saturday. Travel day. Often a late arrival. Get settled in at the church.

Sunday.  Attend local church service. Orientation and planning / prep for the week ahead.

Monday - Friday. Ministry days: Morning devotional, VBS with church, afternoon rest or labor project, evening evangelism / outreach.

Saturday.  Planned off day. Cultural activities in Anchorage. Head to the airport that evening (flights are typically around 11 p.m. - 2 a.m.).

Sunday.  Arrive back home in the morning.

What does my cost include? ​

In-country transportation. We provide your team with well-maintained 15-passenger vans for the week, and handle all logistics. 

Housing. Your team will sleep in disc-o-bed cots at a church. All bedding and linens are provided, and showers are on-site.

Meals.  Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, every day! (Note: You need to pay for your own meals at the airport, while traveling, etc.)

T-Shirt.   Every participant gets an awesome mission trip t-shirt.

Pre-Trip Training Material. We provide training sessions, trip overview documents, assistance from our team of mission trip experts, and communication with in-country missionaries to make sure your group is fully prepared for your trip.

Pre, During, and Post-trip Devotionals.   This 4-week printed missions journal will help every team member grow and encounter Christ.  

Airfare is not included in the trip cost, but will be taken care of by Servant Life's travel agent who gets humanitarian rates and often free baggage. You may book on your own if you prefer to do so, but we ask to approve the itinerary first.

Helping People in Alaska Find and Follow Jesus

Are you ready to embark on a mission adventure? GraceWorks Alaska serves as a bridge between short-term mission team volunteers and local Alaskan communities – creating opportunities to connect, serve, spread the message of hope and disciple new believers

Strengthening the Local Community; Inspiring Spiritual Transformation

Did you know that Alaska is the least church-attending state in the US? At GraceWorks Alaska, we believe that the Great Commission is not for the World to go to church, but for the Church to go to the World.

We create opportunities for church teams and volunteers to inspire faith transformation and spiritual growth throughout the communities we serve.

Why Volunteer With Us?

Communities throughout Alaska are in great need of hope - both physically and spiritually. When you join GraceWorks Alaska, you are joining ongoing work to connect our local communities with the hope of Jesus. We ensure that your impact extends far beyond the week that you spend with us; we partner with local churches on follow-up initiatives year-round.

Mission Trips

Click on the picture for more information

GraceWorks Summer 2024

Help us lay the foundation to spread the Gospel of Good News in our community. Each of our ministry locations is partnered with a local Alaskan church to help facilitate year-round follow-up.

Alaska Iditarod Adventure 2024

Join us in Alaska and serve God by serving others as you assist with the world famous Iditarod Race. Enjoy opportunities to share your faith with mushers, spectators, and other volunteers. You will have the chance in a variety of local service projects in Anchorage in the days following the Last Great Race.

Romania: An Adventure that Gives Back

Our only trip outside of Alaska! Since 1991, GraceWorks has led more than 150 trips to Romania involving over 3,000 people. Serve in small villages and towns in the most Gospel-Needy area of Romania through food distribution, VBS, and more.

Why do so many teams serve with GraceWorks Alaska? Hear from them yourself!

An absolute first class ministry that takes care of every detail! Can't wait to come back! By far the best host I've worked with on a mission trip.

Words can't express how tremendous our experience with GraceWorks was last week. Not a negative word was shared by our team about the whole experience. Your staff is wonderful and so positive. I have never encountered such a well-run machine and I've done camps, conferences and mission trips for over 40 Years!

Hate that I only have one lifetime to serve such a great Savior with such amazing people in such a spectacular ministry!

God's heart is for the people in our community, our state and our globe.

Interior alaska .

Zambia, Africa

Date: march 2025 purpose: evangelism | outreach who:  youth | young adults | adults registration open until: june 30, 2024 total cost:  $3,500.

Tokyo, Japan

Date: easter 2025 purpose: evangelism | outreach who:  young adults | adults | families registration open until: june 30, 2024 total cost:  $3,500.

Ivory Coast, Africa

Date:  march 2026 purpose:   construction | outreach who:  young adults | adults registration open until: may 1, 2025 total cost:  $3,500.

Camp Nahshii, Alaska

Date:  august 2024 purpose:   construction | building who:  youth | young adults | adults | families registration open until: june 30, 2024 total cost:  $1,000.

Alaska Outreach

Alaska outreach exists to facilitate short-term missions trips by connecting churches, pastors, businesses, and individuals to great missions opportunities in alaska.  we have developed relationships with phenomenal missionaries, organizations, and churches both on and off the road system in alaska to strategically plan life-changing missions experiences.  we are committed to simplifying the process and giving your team the greatest moments of their lives for the kingdom..

20/30 Vision

There are over 100 villages in alaska with no church of any faith background. together, we can change that it is our dream that by the year 2030, we will have 20 campuses meeting across our state. it is god's desire that none perish, but that every person in every village is able to encounter him. join us in praying for this vision, go therefore and make disciples of all nations, matthew 28:19.

2024 Registration Open for Sept. – Dec. Mission Trips

Pricing starts at $599/person for a 6 day/5 night mission trip.

Get To Know Thirst Missions

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Long-Term Partnerships

We invite you to consider developing a long-term partnership with a congregation in one of our ministry locations. Thirst Missions is excited to be a part of lining up and following through on these long-term partnerships. If this type of long-term ministry is part of your philosophy of missions, we would love to work with you to partner long-term or short-term in ministry to the same community and congregation in Alaska, Appalachia, Belize or Puerto Rico. What a blessing it would be for both congregations!

Begin Your Journey With Us

• Read through our website and contact us  with questions about a potential trip.
• Register for a trip (takes 2 minutes).
• You will receive a welcome email with electronic resources for your trip.
• You will receive a package of brochures and promotional materials to help promote your trip.
• You will be contacted by your personal mission trip consultant to begin planning your trip. Leave the hard work to us.
• You’re on your way to your life changing mission trip!

About Thirst Missions

Thirst Missions, the world’s leader in short-term mission trips, is committed to leading high quality mission trips for every group. We take care of all the logistics and planning so your group can focus on ministry and relationships.

© 2024 Thirst Missions. All Rights Reserved.

• Statement of Faith
• Philosophy of Missions
• Why Thirst?
• Meet the Staff
• 2024 Brochure Download PDF
• Puerto Rico
• What’s Included
• Prices & Dates
• Travel Agent
• Travel & Medical Insurance
• Payment and Policy Info

RURAL MISSION TRIP

HOW WE SERVE

Once a gold rush boomtown, Fairbanks is now considered the “Golden Heart of Alaska”; the last true frontier. Here, your students will work to combat homelessness and be a part of spiritual healing to the community through construction and social initiatives.

REGISTER TODAY

DATES AVAILABLE

June 8 - 14

June 15 - 21

June 22 - 28

June 30 – July 5*

July 6 – 12

July 13 – 19

July 20 – 26

July 27 - August 2

* Sunday through Friday trip

Winter break & Spring break trips? Give us a call.

THE MISSION IN FAIRBANKS, ALASKA

Alaska is the largest state in the U.S.A in land area at 663,268 square miles, which is over twice the size of Texas, the next largest state. Alaska is known for its breathtaking, natural beauty, but that’s not all it’s known for. If you decide to partner with the greater Fairbanks community you will quickly notice that the partnerships are just as breathtaking as the landscape.

Since 2009, Next Step has strategically aligned itself with organizations in Fairbanks that are committed to sharing God’s love by combating homelessness and being a part of the spiritual healing going on in Fairbanks today. It’s also where the 3 founders of Next Step Ministries were first commissioned by two amazing spiritual leaders and locals, Will and Yvonne Mayo. Will, a former Athabaskan Chief and his wife, Yvonne, a Co-Director of the Vine Ministry in Fairbanks encouraged the founders to go out and continue God’s good work through missions. It was after much prayer and God’s working through Will and Yvonne that they decided to create Next Step Ministries.

Since the founding of Next Step, our community connections in Fairbanks have expanded and we’re excited for you to have the opportunity to serve alongside our partners. When you join us in Alaska, you get the chance to attend a Sunday morning service at your host church. The students will have an amazing opportunity to connect with some locals in a church wide potluck meal after the service. That afternoon you’ll set out on a hike into God’s glorious creation, a great way to center your hearts at the start of your trip. For the next three days, you get to be a part of God’s mission in Fairbanks by serving with our partnerships located all across the city. Your Alaska adventures may even lead you to serving with some of our partners in North Pole! (Yep, you read that right, North Pole, AK! Not THE North Pole, although you can visit Santa’s house!)

Known as the golden heart of Alaska, we work within the heart of the city of Fairbanks through urban ministries like The Door and the Fairbanks Rescue Mission who help combat the homelessness in the area. We also partner with the 7th Day Adventist Church, Adventist Community Services (ACS) who run a disaster response warehouse that supports the local community as well as provides supplies to rural regions of Alaska when disaster strikes. In North Pole, we work with Unity Outreach to split and stack firewood for winter fuel as well as help with their facility renovation as they help the community in many physical and spiritual ways. All of our partnerships combine a unique balance of practical physical support, such as construction and repair, along with highly valued relational involvement with members of these communities. Whether you are helping with construction at the disaster response warehouse or working on maintenance or construction at Pioneer Park and getting to share the love of Christ through interactions with both locals and tourists alike, students will have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference.

During your free day, students will travel up to Denali National Park to explore one of the most beautiful preserves in the country. There are a variety of hiking options with magnificent views around the park as well as local adventure tours like ATV rides. You can take an exciting white water rafting trip down the Nenana River or hop in a helicopter for a ride to the massive Yanert Icefield and land on an actual glacier! Nowhere else can your students experience this type of adventure!

PARTNERSHIPS

Adventist community services.

Community Services

One of our long term partners in Fairbanks. We have been working with them on building a warehouse that houses beds, furniture, and other things for families that are in need of basic necessities for living. Projects may also include but are not limited to roofing, framing, drywalling, siding, and painting homes in the community

Youth Shelter

A 24-7 shelter for homeless youth aged 12-18, provides a safe place to sleep, nutritious home cooked meals, clothing, supplies, and connections to community resources to help youth find stability. Serving here, you will have the opportunity to  renovate their shelter facilities and help create a environment that is both imaginative and creative.

UNITY OUTREACH INC

Community Resources

Unity Outreach helps individuals physically and spiritually. We have helped with improvements to their facility to better serve the needs of their ministry, and assisted with gardening and building a year-round greenhouse to provide fresh produce from their location, as well as splitting wood to provide fuel for winter months.

PIONEER PARK

Pioneer Park is a 44 acre historical park located in the heart of Fairbanks, Alaska where history is celebrated and preserved. Here we are able to soak in the history of Fairbanks and work alongside the city to rebuild and help to upkeep several of the buildings and boardwalks in need of repair due to the harsh winter conditions.

SITE PHOTOS

YOUR EXPERIENCE

We’ve been told our worship experience is where summer camp meets mission trip. At Next Step, your students will create unforgettable memories and friendships while worshipping and growing together in their understanding of who Jesus is. Each evening will include great bands, challenging speakers and a powerful video series created and filmed exclusively for your mission trip.

CONSTRUCTION

Have you ever gone on a mission trip and been disappointed by the work projects? You’re left wondering— isn’t there something more we could have done? At Next Step, we have partnered with local community leaders to ensure that the projects are meaningful and alleviate vital building needs. Your students will work on projects such as full home builds, home additions, drywall, siding, flooring, wheelchair ramps, and more.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Do you ever wonder if your short-term mission trip really made a difference? At Next Step, students serve alongside local community members, churches and nonprofits, as we meet the needs of the community together. With our full-time staff living in the communities we partner with, and projects being selected by the community, you will be part of a movement in responsible short-term missions.

The trip is hosted at Lighthouse Church in the heart of Fairbanks, Alaska. Guys and girls will be separated into different rooms with bunk beds, cots, and air mattresses. All that is needed is a pillow and bedding! Showers with individual stalls are located in host church facility.

Van Accessible (Not Bus Accessible)

Many groups prefer to fly to Fairbanks and rent vehicles upon arrival. If you choose to fly, please plan to fly into the Fairbanks International Airport (FIA). The airport is just 15 minutes away from where we stay.  Vehicles with four-wheel drive are recommended.

Bedding & Pillow Water Bottle Sunglasses Sunscreen Insect Repellent Towel Toiletries Swim Suit Work Shoes Work Clothes Casual Clothes Eye mask Work Gloves Safety Glasses

SATURDAY (ARRIVAL DAY) 3:00-5:00 pm – Arrive to Mission Location 6:00 pm – Dinner 7:30 pm – Worship & Weekly Orientation 9:00 pm – Church Time, Small groups, Free Time 10:30 pm – Lights Out

SUNDAY (WORK DAY) 8:30 am – Wake Up 9:00 am – Eat Breakfast & Lunch Preparation 10;00 am – Morning Devotional 11:00 am – Church at Lighthouse Church 12:30 am – Lunch/Cookout at Lighthouse Church 2:00 pm – Depart for Angel Rocks Hike 5:30 pm – Clean Up/Return 4:00 pm – Free time/Showers/Leader Meeting 6:30pm – Dinner & Cleanup 7:45 pm – Worship 9:00 – Church Time/Small Groups/Free Time 10:30 pm – Lights Out

MONDAY - WEDNESDAY (WORK DAYS) 7:00 am – Wake Up 7:15 am – Eat Breakfast & Lunch Preparation 8:00 am – Morning Devotional 8:30 am – Depart for Worksite & Begin Working 12:00 pm – Lunch & Devotion 1:00 pm – Resume Working 3:30 pm – Clean Up/Return 4:00 pm – Free time/Showers/Leader Meeting 6:00pm – Dinner 7:00 pm – Worship 9:00 – Church Time/Small Groups/Free Time 11:00 pm – Lights Out

THURSDAY (COMMUNITY / FUN DAY) 8:00 am – Wake Up 8:15 am – Eat Breakfast & Lunch Preparation 9:00 am – Morning Devotion 9:15 am – Leave for Free Day Activity! 4:00 pm  – Shower Time/Free Time/Leader Meeting 6:00 pm – Dinner 7:00 pm – Worship 8:30 pm – Church Time/Small Groups/Free time 11:00 pm – Lights Out

When should I register for my trip?

Registration opens in July and will be available through early spring. To get your preferred dates, locations, and spaces, it is recommended to secure your spots sometime before October.

What is the min or max people per group?

For summer mission trips you must have a minimum of five participants to be eligible for a group. If you have less than five participants on your team, please contact our office. The maximum number of people will depend on location capacity and availability.

What is the adult to student ratio required?

Next Step Ministries asks each group to bring 1 adult for every 6 students.

Are background checks required?

Yes. Each church group is responsible for conducting background checks on each participant 18 years of age or older.

When will we find out what our work projects are?

Your group will learn about the work projects on the first night of your trip! Our staff will contact you 1-2 weeks prior to the trip to share updates and provide an adjusted tool list.

How are the trips staffed?

A Next Step Partnership Coordinator facilitates community partnerships, lines up projects, leads the summer staff, and coordinates other logistics such as lodging and accommodations. The trip itself will be facilitated by 8-12 energetic, mission-minded, and highly trained college interns. The site staff will include a construction team, worship team, speaker, meal coordinators, and administrative leaders to guide you through the week.

What if the trip I’m considering is already full?

Each location has a different max capacity, so please contact our office to learn more about spaces available. In the event we are fully booked for the trip you are interested in, we can put you on a wait list or help find alternative trip options. To avoid these delays, we recommend registering for your trip as soon as you can!

What is the payment schedule?

Payment for a Next Step Ministries mission trip is separated into a deposit and two scheduled payments:

• Deposit - $50 non-refundable and non-transferable deposit per spot reserved due within 30 days of your trip registration date
• March 15th Payment – 50% of remaining balance of trip cost due
• May 15th Payment – 100% of remaining total balance of trip cost due

Is Next Step affiliated with a denomination?

No, we do not affiliate with a particular denomination. Next Step Ministries is an interdenominational organization and we partner with hundreds of churches from all different denominations on our mission trips. Please see our Statement of Faith to learn more about what we believe. In simple terms, we stick to the basics of the Gospel. Our foundation for ministry is to provide opportunities for students to connect and grow in a personal relationship with Christ.

How are the work projects selected?

Next Step Ministries works alongside community leaders, non-profit organizations, and the local church in order to set up work projects. Full-time Next Step Staff called Partnership Coordinators live and serve within the community year round and are well connected. Next Step collaborates with the community to plan the projects you will be working on in advance.

Will our group be paired with other groups?

You will most likely be attending a trip with 2-4 other youth groups. All groups will share sleeping quarters and we will have meals and worship together as a large group. Many of our mission site locations can accommodate for 80-100 volunteers each week. For work projects, we love to mix students, but also understand many groups prefer to stick together. Please let us know your preference and we will plan accordingly!

Is the mission trip safe?

Yes. Next Step Ministries exists to give middle school, high school, and college students an opportunity to explore their faith, experience God, and extend service to others on a mission trip. Students are our top priority and safety is always our primary concern. Thankfully, because of our long-term commitment and involvement within the community, we have developed many close relationships with local families and organizations. The community is familiar with Next Step and we’ve worked hard to humbly earn their trust and respect. Because of these close friendships we are the first to know if something out of the ordinary comes up or is unsafe.

WANT MORE INFORMATION?

Day or night, Next Step Ministries is happy to hear from you. Whether you have a question, comment or concern, please don’t hesitate to give us a call, or just type "TRIP" in the chatbox to get more information. As an additional resource, feel free to download this brochure for all your mission trip information in one place.

A MISSIONS ADVENTURE WITHOUT A PASSPORT

Alaska outreach exists to facilitate short-term missions trips while  connecting communities, schools, and churches with other churches, pastors, individuals and organizations to positively impact alaskan communities with a variety of personal gifts and talents while experiencing  the last frontier, "a cross-cultural missions experience without a passport".

Alaska Outreach

We offer two options:, team registration , outreach guidlines, finanical information, packing list .

Organization Location: Alaska

Alaska missions and retreats.

At Alaska Missions and Retreats we are transforming hearts and lives with the message of hope in Christ. We meet needs to break down walls, bringing people from apathy to curiosity about Christ, and finding Him irresistible.

Covenant Youth of Alaska

A ministry of the Evangelical Covenant Church of Alaska, we are a relational outreach, discipleship and leadership ministry for Alaska youth and young adults.

KCAM Radio is made up of two community radio stations featuring Christian teaching programs, news, local information, and a variety of music. Located in rural Alaska, KCAM and KCAM-FM are the only local radio stations on the dial.

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Alaska Mission Trip

Trip Overview

Consider an It Is Written Mission trip to the last American frontier, Alaska! Alaska is a rich and diverse state where you can see the true beauty of creation. More importantly, you can carry the gospel to people who are looking for something beyond this life. This mission trip will precede major It Is Written evangelistic meetings led by Pastor John Bradshaw, spanning the entire conference. Pastor Wes Peppers will lead the trip, and it will be composed of AMEN Free Clinics, construction projects, and evangelistic outreach both in the cities of Anchorage and Bethel Village. Anchorage is the most diverse city in the United States. God will use you to change someone’s life and bring hope to many hearts as you trust Him to work miracles through you. Be sure to join us!

Travel Information

Volunteers needed.

WE HAVE REACHED OUR CAPACITY FOR SUPPORT STAFF. WE URGENTLY NEED DENTISTS, DENTAL HYGIENISTS, AND OPTOMETRISTS.

Medical Professionals – Including dentists & dental hygienists, and optometrists. All categories of medical service providers will be welcomed and utilized. NOTE: All non-Alaska-based licensed medical professionals must share their license information with AMEN so that temporary licenses can be secured through the state.

Support Staff - There will be a need in many areas for non-medical support staff to help coordinate medical clinics and interact with guests.

Construction - Remodeling work in churches and mission facilities will take place in partnership with Build and Restore International.

It Is Written will partner with AMEN (Adventist Medical Evangelism Network) to conduct the medical clinics. This will be a large-scale endeavor and partnership, and we are very pleased to work together.

Mission Trip Location

Location 1: Anchorage, Alaska Location 2: Bethel Village, Alaska

Most of the team will work in Anchorage, Alaska, providing a five-day city-wide AMEN Free Clinic providing medical, dental and vision services for the public and a church remodeling project. Healthcare and non-healthcare professionals are welcome. This clinic serves as a prelude to a major Conference-wide evangelistic series by It Is Written, scheduled from April 4 to May 5, 2024.

A smaller, select team (based on specific needs) will travel to Bethel Village, located on Alaska’s west coast, to provide mental health and addiction education/counseling, and host an evangelistic series with children’s programming.

Mission Trip Expenses

Mission Trip Fee* Adults and children 15+: $800 Children ages 7-14:$500 Children Birth-6: Free

Groups If four or more adults attend from the same nuclear family or church, the fee is reduced by $100 per adult. Call Cathy Q at 423-362-5822

*This fee does not cover airfare to and from the destination.

Refund Policy Full refund if you cancel three weeks prior to departure. Half refund any time after.

Airfare – You must purchase your own round-trip ticket for Anchorage, Alaska, from your location. You should arrive on March 20 and depart on March 31. You may wish to arrive earlier or depart later for vacation or sightseeing, but you will be responsible for your own accommodations, airport transportation and meals during that time.

Other expenses include your own personal spending money, team excursion costs, food outside of served team meals, souvenirs, or any other purchases you wish to make.

Why pay a fee to attend a mission trip? Keep in mind, a typical mission project costs tens of thousands of dollars to execute. In some cases, hundreds of thousands. The fee assists in covering the basic costs of each team member, including meals, travel insurance, housing, and more. In addition, the fee helps to purchase the medical clinic and construction supplies, as well as the evangelism costs that become the tangible help a person will receive. The mission trip fee often does not cover the actual cost.

Please pay the fee as soon as you apply, the final deadline is February 1, 2024.

Team members will fly into the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) on March 20 and depart on March 31.

From Anchorage, the Bethel team will fly via Alaska Airlines. The Bethel team must complete orientation in Anchorage before going to Bethel. Bethel flights will be arranged by It Is Written.

• Accommodations will be at local Airbnb’s in the surrounding area. You are welcome to stay at a local hotel at your own expense.
• Local transportation is provided to and from the airport and all trip destinations. Car rentals are available at the airport at your own expense if you prefer.
• Three vegetarian meals are provided each day. Totally vegan meals may not always be an option, although some selections within a meal may be.
• We are unable to accommodate gluten-free or other similar needs. You are welcome to bring any food items you need. Any food purchases outside of the three meals are the participant’s responsibility.
• If you plan to arrive early or stay longer, you are responsible for making all of your hotel and transportation arrangements.

Alaska Facts & Figures

Overview Alaska was acquired from Russia in 1867, largely retaining its current boundaries. Alaska became the gateway to the Klondike gold fields. It was made a territory in 1912 and admitted as a State on January 3, 1959.

• 17 of the 20 highest mountain peaks in the United States are located in Alaska.
• There are over 3 million lakes and 3,000 rivers located within the state.
• Alaska is located less than 50 miles from Russia.
• Twenty-five percent of the oil produced in the US comes from Alaska.
• The largest salmon ever caught — 97.5 pounds — was caught in the state’s Kenai River.
• Alaska’s area is so large that the state of Rhode Island could fit within it 425 times.
• Alaska Natives comprise about 15.4% of the Alaskan population, including the Iñupiat, Yupik, Aleut, Eyak, Tlingit, Haida, Tsimshian, and Athabaskan cultures.
• Many Alaskan Native traditions and ceremonies are still practiced throughout Alaska today, such as birth celebrations, marriage ceremonies, giving of a name, raising totems, sharing of wealth, and honoring the departed, among others.
• Alaska has a palindromic place called Kanakanak. This means that this neighborhood’s name can be reversed— spelled from left to right or right to left— and it would be spelled or read identically.

Capital Juneau

Population Alaska: 732,000 Anchorage: 290,000 Bethel: 6,200

Language English with some ethnic and local native languages

Religion 62% of the state identify as Christian 31% identify with no religious belief system 6% affiliate with non-Christian religions

Climate March in Alaska will be cold. The average temperature in March is about 30 degrees F. Bring warm clothing and cold-weather accessories. Daylight will range from 10-13 hours daily, but it is mostly cloudy in March.

Currency USD

Power Standard 110

Time Difference Alaska is in the Alaska Time Zone, 1 hour behind Pacific time and 4 hours behind Eastern.

Medical Requirements

Check the recommended vaccines and medicine list and consider visiting your Dr. 4-6 weeks before the trip for any further medical advice you need.

State Immunization Laws

Registration Information

Application and Payment Due February 1, 2024

Register Online

Payment Options

For questions, call Cathy Q at 423-362-5822

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Deepen your youth mission trip by doing ministry built on genuine partnerships, long term relationships, and sustainable ministry.

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When disasters strike, the Church is on the front lines of response and relief efforts, working with local authorities and organizing grassroots efforts to meet the pressing needs of their communities.

Follow along with teams as they serve in disaster areas around the world, and also read about the experiences of past teams who have served in those areas through Praying Pelican Missions. Our disaster trip journals are a great way to stay connected with those support teams as they work locally and internationally to offer encouragement and assist the local Church in what might be their greatest time of need!

trip journals

Mission Trip Journals

Follow along with teams as they go on mission, and read about the experiences of past teams who have served with Praying Pelican.

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Mission trips | church sponsorship | disaster response.

PPM exists to build up, encourage, and assist the local Church in serving and reaching their communities for Christ.

As an interdenominational ministry, we seek to recognize the diversity of the church while leveraging what binds us together as followers of Jesus Christ. There is no more powerful example of God's love to a community than when His people come together to serve and advance the Gospel, all in the name of Jesus.

Praying Pelican Missions’ vision is to see a united global Church reaching its fullest potential for the glory of God.  We believe the best way to accomplish our mission and vision is to support the local Church 365 days a year. We do this in three ways: short-term mission trips, church sponsorship, and disaster response.

Teams Serving Today!

Today there are 194 people serving on mission trips with PPM!

MISSION TRIPS

We believe that healthy short-term mission trips are possible by building upon genuine partnerships, long-term relationships, and sustainable ministry. When your team partners with us for a mission trip, your group will work directly alongside local churches and ministries where you can help to meet real needs, identified by local leadership.

CHURCH SPONSORSHIP

PPM365 is a continuous effort to build up, encourage, and assist the local Church 365 days a year. By sponsoring a church's involvement in this program, pastors and ministry leaders will receive local support, training, and encouragement, leading to transformed communities in the name of Christ.

DISASTER RESPONSE

When disasters strike, the Church is on the front lines of response and relief efforts, working with local authorities and organizing grassroots efforts to meet the needs of their communities. PPM comes alongside these efforts, providing the necessary resources, support, and help to advance the work of our local partners.

Praying Pelican Missions serves as a bridge between cultures, connecting local churches from around the world. For over 20 years, PPM teams have been encouraging and assisting local ministries in what they are doing in their communities.

To learn more about how your church or team can partner alongside the local church in ministry, please fill out the contact form to the right and one of our Mission Consultants will connect with you!

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INTERNATIONAL & DOMESTIC

Our partner-based trips differ a bit by location, but are all based on the same principles we believe are crucial to healthy mission trips.

GROUP LEADER TESTIMONIALS

What are group leaders saying about their mission trip experience with Praying Pelican Missions?

I love PPM! I just got back from my second trip with them, and I cannot express how grateful I am for PPM and their awesome team! Mission trips are always stressful, but PPM is very organized and supportive. As a pastor, I love working with PPM because they make an effort to connect and support your students!

Cassandra Riker

Jamestown Presbyterian Church

Short-term missions can be tricky to do well, but PPM does it RIGHT. Our leaders were from the home country, on the ground, assessed the ministry site well, and ensured the partnership would benefit all involved. Our trip was a beautiful example of the Body of Christ working well together and serving one another because of the prep and care PPM took. I would HIGHLY recommend going with them!! We will definitely be partnering with them in the future.

Kristi Hawkins

Glenkirk Church

We just had our 4th Missions Trip through Praying Pelican Missions to the Dominican Republic and each one has been amazing. This last one was the best one yet! Big thanks to the PPM staff for helping us with all the logistics and process of getting everyone on the team registered and ready for the trip. While on the grounds in the DR the PPM staff was amazing and served right along with us. I look forward to our continued partnership and future Missions Trips!

Calebe Maciel

Trinity Community Church

READY? LET'S GO!

Have questions or want to learn more?

[email protected]

Phone number, 888.ppm.4090, 8011 34th ave s, suite 400, minneapolis, mn 55425, have questions.

INTERNATIONAL

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Our customizable mission trips allow each person on your team of adults to find a place to serve, regardless of their interest or skills.

Africa's many countries boast a wide array of beauty, culture and needs. Destinations include Kenya and South Africa.

Serve with Praying Pelican across the Caribbean—locations include Haiti, Jamaica, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, the Bahamas, and Puerto Rico.

Serve with Praying Pelican across the Central America—locations include Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica.

This is your opportunity to serve alongside a local church and experience God in a different culture—from Belize, to Cuba, to South Africa and beyond.

From our hometown of Minneapolis to the island of Puerto Rico, USA mission trips are diverse in service opportunities, cultural experiences, and community needs.

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Alaska Mission Trip

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March 12-20, 2021 (could vary slightly)

Anchorage, Alaska

Our Ministry Partner

Praying Pelican’s mission is guided by genuine partnerships, long-term relationships, and sustainable ministry.

What is this trip’s focus?

• Care for people living in poverty
• Care for people experiencing mental illness
• Manual labor/acts of service
• Prayer walks

This team of 10 students has a team fundraising goal of $17,000. Fundraising will be a major part of the year for this team, which will tremendously help the financial bottom line!

Team Leaders

Jordan Diaz and TBD

Applications are open through November 1.  Interviews are conducted in October and November for the following spring.

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Mission Trip: Alaska

Each year, Benedictine College students travel to Anchorage, Alaska, with a non-profit organization called Praying Pelicans. On this mission, students have the opportunity to partner alongside local churches, colleges, nonprofits, and Christian camps to work with locals who frequently struggle under the weight of difficulties such as poverty, homelessness, seasonal affective disorder, and alcoholism. This trip is lifechanging and the beauty of Alaska is incredible!

Contact: Sean Markham

Christian Travel for the Intrepid Berean

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ALASKA TOURS & CRUISES

Our Alaskan tours and cruises are incredible vacations exploring the beautiful northern lands of God's creation!

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We do not have any Alaskan tours currently scheduled for the immediate future.

Please sign up to our mailing list to be notified when the next Alaskan tour or cruise is announced.

What sets Alaska apart as a Christian tour destination? The answer is that Alaska is one of the most family-friendly vacation spots in the world.

With its majestic mountains, rustic towns, and unique wildlife, Alaska is a complete opposite to the commercially driven, tourist-packed, urban theme parks where most families head during summer vacation. Alaska is the last wild frontier and a one-of-a-kind experience for the faith-based traveler.

Alaska vacations for families are often built around the adventure of the great outdoors, but a Christian tour to Alaska means more than just fishing, nature walks, and wildlife expeditions.

When you travel to Alaska with us, you are taking a journey that is centered around the Bible, you are led by experienced Christian guides who bring teaching and wisdom, and you can enjoy the community of fellow believers while sharing a time you will never forget.

Alaska has many amazing features but the truly rewarding aspect of Christian travel is connecting with other Christians.

We create faith-based itineraries so that when you go somewhere new, you can grow in your walk with God while being part of something extraordinary.

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Mission Trips for Adults

• Age Range 18 Years and older
• Length 1-2 Week Trips

SERVE GOD BY SERVING OTHERS ON A MISSION TRIP!

A mission trip will not only have a profound impact on the ministry partner and community that are being served, but also on you and your group as you discover that your stories are part of the bigger story of what God is doing. You will experience God in a new and powerful way as you serve others in a new context.

Trip Locations

Ft. Myers, Florida

Navajo Reservation NM

Puerto Rico

Asheville, North Carolina

Baja California, Mexico

Chicago, Illinois

Dominican Republic

Fairbanks, Alaska

Hilton Head, South Carolina

Kansas City, Missouri

Manchester, New Hampshire

Mashulaville, Mississippi

Mayfield, Kentucky

New Orleans, Louisiana

New York City, New York

South Asia - Beauty for Ashes

Sample schedule.

Brooke Pillar

Vanessa Washington

Ken belliard, tierra ellis, eliana almario.

Collette Konkel

Darlene konkel, kristen ogle, tyson stout, are you ready to make a change.

Is your heart stirring for more, but you just aren’t sure what that looks like? We get it, the tension of living with one foot in heaven and one foot on earth is tough. But what if we could live every day like Jesus and the disciples did so long ago?

The Bible isn’t just a storybook, it’s an action plan that exhorts us to go and serve and discover how to live every day with hearts beating for what God is doing on this earth.

We wanted people like you (and us for that matter!) to have the opportunity to experience Heaven’s heart for the nations.

All it takes is a YES in your spirit to answer the call of what you know God’s called you in your heart to do. Are you ready for a change? It’s time to make an impact and activate your passions!

INSTAGRAM FEED

The cost of your trip covers your food, lodging, Adventures t-shirt, journal, ministry expenses, international health insurance (if applicable) and other associated costs.

For mission trips in the U.S., you are responsible for your round-trip airfare/transportation to the trip location and transportation during the mission trip. For overseas trips, you are responsible for your round-trip travel/transportation to the city that corresponds to your location. Adventures will provide ground transportation upon your arrival.

Participant minimums vary trip to trip. Check with your Missions Representative for your trip’s minimum.

We are not doctors and have no medical training so we are not qualified from a medical perspective to say you should or should not get certain vaccinations. We suggest that you determine which vaccinations you may need by visiting the   CDC website   or consulting your local travel health specialist and reviewing their recommendations based on the country(ies) you will be visiting. Some countries require a Yellow Fever Certificate to enter, so pay particular attention to that.

You may or may not choose to receive all the vaccinations recommended by the CDC or your physician. It is your personal decision what vaccinations you receive, but we recommend you seek a medical professional’s advice concerning that decision.

Do not purchase your airfare until you are directed to do so by your Admissions Representative. If a trip cancels due to lack of interest, Adventures will refund all money paid to Adventures but is not responsible for airfare and will not refund it.

Your Mission Leader will be wearing an Adventures t-shirt, similar to the one you will receive prior to your departure date. You will be sent additional information from your Mission Leader directing you to a central meeting location.

On the field, lodging varies per location. You may be provided a bunk bed or cot or you may be asked to bring an air mattress to sleep on the floor of a local church. Males and females will be separated for lodging. You will receive more information regarding your housing arrangements prior to your trip.

Yes, however accommodations vary by location and it may not be in a traditional shower. You will have access to clean water.

You are welcome to bring your cell phone to take pictures, use as alarm clock, an ipod, etc. However, your cell phone may or may not have reception in overseas locations.

Please evaluate your reasons for bringing phones or ipods on this trip. You are on the trip to minister to others, to serve God, and develop a deeper relationship with God. Phones and other electronic devices may be a distraction to what God is trying to tell you.

That being said, we also realize phones can be great ministry tools! We want you to take pictures and video of your trip. And don’t forget to tag them with #adventuresinmissions when you post them to social media. Please note: Adventures is not responsible for any lost, stolen, or damaged electronic devices.

How much spending money you bring depends entirely on your personal spending habits and financial situation. Remember, all your meals will be covered by Adventures. So, extra personal money would be entirely at your discretion.

Remember when you’re on the field in ministry, you represent God, Adventures, and local missionaries. Modesty is the key in guiding decisions of what clothes to pack; a good rule of thumb: when in doubt, don’t bring it. A general packing list and our dress code will be provided for you..

Be prepared to cover up tattoos or remove piercings if the host cultures/ministries find them offensive. If this is necessary, your leaders will let you know this before you get in country.

For information on applying for a passport for the first time, visit this  website  or make an appointment at your local post office. Generally, it takes approximately 4 – 6 weeks from the time of application for you to receive your passport. We must have your passport information before airline tickets are purchased so please get your passport ASAP. Sometimes it may take longer than 6 weeks to receive your passport, so apply now.

Generally, Mission Leaders are adults who have led or participated in previous Adventures trips, and some Mission Leaders are Adventures staff. During your trip, your Mission Leader will be the liaison between your team and the ministry host, coordinating daily ministry schedules. The Mission Leader also facilitates nightly debrief sessions, encouraging your team to respond to what God is doing during the trip. Our goal is for you to have contact with your Mission Leader roughly 1 month prior to your trip.

We at Adventures In Missions take the responsibility and care of our participants very seriously.

The reality is the world can be an unsafe place. That truth is not limited to overseas travel. While we cannot guarantee safety, safety and security is a top priority for our programs. We set protocols to minimize risk while expanding each student’s exploration of God’s Kingdom.

Our staff monitors safety concerns and issues around the world, including organized protests, political uprisings, medical alerts, and natural disasters. We maintain active communication with our international contacts and will change locations if we believe the risk level in an area is no longer appropriate for our participants.

A deposit of $75.00 per person is required to secure each participant’s space on the mission trip. The remaining trip balance will be due in two equal installments. The first payment is due approximately 6 weeks days prior to your trip start date and the second payment is due approximately 4 weeks prior to your trip start date. Please refer to our Financial Policy in your online profile for specific any additional financial deadlines and policies.

Check out these other Short Term Mission trip opportunities

Youth mission trips, college student mission trips, women only mission trips, when you know you’re loved, you can rest easy. ready to share that same transforming love with the world it’s time, make a difference today.

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Mission Trips: 1-12 Weeks

How might God use you if you took a step of faith to engage with His mission somewhere in the world? Cru offers many kinds of mission trips for college and high school students, working adults and families. Get out to the world! You can help make a huge impact in the lives of a person close to home or far away in a completely different culture or among people who still haven't heard the name of Jesus.

Summer Missions

Do something extraordinary this summer: Impact a community, a workplace or the world!

Jesus Film Missions

Using the power of media in ministry, you can help reach every tribe and touchscreen.  

Study Abroad

Make the most of your college education by carrying the gospel to the nations while you study abroad.  

High School Missions

Interested in working with younger people and impacting local schools?

High School Gap Year

Take a break before going to college and make an impact around the world.

Athletic Missions

Choose a mission trip focused on introducing athletes to the gospel.

Inner City Missions

Do you want to deepen your relationship with God as you have an impact on one of our great cities?  

Humanitarian Trips

Unto® humanitarian trips express the kindness of Jesus to people living in the toughest places on earth.

Other Opportunities

Choose where you want to serve. Find mission opportunities for individuals and families, or focus on your area of expertise.

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