Office of Disciples Volunteering

Faithful Advocates Serving Together Frequently Asked Questions

Who can participate?

Youth groups, inter-generational groups, and families with children are all welcome. 

What are the costs?

1. $225 per person, which covers housing, meals, and all building materials, t-shirts, secondary insurance, work supervisors and a F.A.S.T. resource guide for group leaders
2. Children 11 and under are $125 per week.
3. Group provides its own transportation.

Where and when?

Alderson Ministerial Association in Alderson, W.Va., June 8 to July 12, 2008 or Sunset Gap Community Center in Cosby, Tenn., July 13 to August 9, 2008.

Arrive on Sunday afternoon/evening and depart on Saturday morning

Expectations

1. Participate in on-going work with housing rehabilitation in area.
2. Covenant to participate in education and reflection on economic justice issues related to the Appalachian region before and during week on site.
3. Engage in advocacy when your group returns home.

How to participate

Register on-line. Contact Diane Dicken for date availability, (866) 822-8224 ext. 3216 or dickend@ucc.org.

General program information

1. Work supervisors for on-site projects provided.
2. Summer intern hosts coordinate on-site program. Interns will contact you prior to your arrival.
3. Group Leaders from participating groups coordinate worship experiences.
4. A Group Leaders’ Manual will be provided to you after registration
   a. Includes logistical information for the Alderson Community Center and Ministerial Association in Alderson, W.Va. or for Sunset Gap Community Center and program in Cosby, Tenn.
   b. Includes preparation and educational activities and information about the region.
   c. Includes list of possible local exposure trips and recreation activities.  (Consult summer interns for recommendation to plan this half-day or day activity.)
5. Groups of small numbers will join another smaller group on-site to:
   Work; reflect; play; worship; and share meals together

Facility information

Alderson Ministerial Association in Alderson, W.Va.
(June 8 to July 12 groups)

• Stay at the Alderson Community Center (formerly the local High School building)
• Former classrooms have been converted into sleeping areas with bunks and air-conditioning.           
  (Note:  Community Center has several flights of stairs for access to sleeping, kitchen and shower areas)
• On-Site cook will prepare evening meals.  Groups will use food provided to prepare breakfast and sack lunches.
• Gymnasium is available.

Sunset Gap Community Center in Cosby, Tenn. 
(July 13- August 9 groups)

• Stay at the Sunset Gap Community Center in dormitory with bunk beds.
• On-site cook will prepare evening meals. Groups will use food provided to prepare breakfast and sack lunches.