Your bags are packed.
(Well – it is probably too soon for that.
But you’ve at least thought about packing a bag. . . right?)
You’re super pumped.
(Or nervous or antsy . . .that’s okay. . . so is everyone else!)
You’re busy writing thank you notes to all your supporters.
(Ahem. You know your Aunt Lila is dying to hear from you.)
There is no doubt you’re headed out on the adventure of a lifetime! And we are so excited to meet you and spend time with you before we send you out to the nations.
So let’s talk about this thing called launch.
You may have also heard us call it training camp.
(Yikes! Maybe not that kind of training camp.)
Launch begins when you arrive at our headquarters in Georgia on the first day of your trip and lasts until you fly to your destination.
Launch is a busy few days, filled with teachings, worship, time spent getting to know your team and leaders, and having a blast. The adventure truly begins at launch!!
The accommodations at launch are somewhat primitive, so we want to make sure you are ready to tackle the challenge!
Lodging – You will be staying in large tents (that we will provide) on sleeping mats (that we will also provide). You will need to use your own sheets or sleeping bag – whichever you packed for your trip – and your own pillow. Guys and girls will be in separate tents.
Bathrooms – You will not have access to traditional running water. We will have porta potties set up, and you will be showering with bucket showers. Your water bottle will be your best friend when it comes to brushing your teeth and washing your hands. We will provide large coolers of water for drinking and washing at all times.
Bucket showers go something like this:
1. Fill a bucket with water (it will be chilly!).
2. Scoop up some water to rinse yourself off.
3. Soap up!
4. Scoop more water to wash the soap off.
5. You’re clean (and maybe doing the cold water dance)!
Food – Food will be prepared by our awesome kitchen staff! You will need to keep your water bottle with you at all times to stay hydrated.
A note on food allergies and preferences:
While we understand that our bodies are built differently, the reality of the mission field is that you will rarely have much control over what is available for you to eat. You will be served a variety of dishes overseas, and unless you have a serious food allergy, declining to eat a dish can be seen as offensive.
If you have a food allergy or intolerance listed on your Medical tab, we will make accommodations for you at training camp. However, food is ordered weeks in advance, and if you do not inform us of these needs in advance, you will be expected to eat the food served, or make do.
Vegetarians will need to make do with the main dishes served. Food preferences will not be accommodated.
Weather – You will be outdoors in the hot Georgia summer heat and red clay. Plan for that and pop-up rain storms!
Bottom line:
Launch puts the ADVENTURE in MISSIONS.
See you soon!!
