Thank you for your interest in bringing a volunteer Work Group to Good Works. Actually, as an expression of our faith, we refer to you as a Worship Team—a group of people seeking to offer themselves in service to God. That is worship. You are joining a long line of faithful groups who have given their time and hard work to join Good Works in serving people in Southeastern Ohio who are struggling with poverty. Our focus for Work Camps flows out of a core value of Good Works: providing a way for churches and other volunteer groups to serve those in need. We believe that serving those in need is a necessary component to being a disciple of Jesus, and we are glad to provide you with this particular way to serve. Additionally, as God has added both facilities and programs to the ministry of Good Works, we have recognized our need to link with other groups who have the willingness and ability to help us. We recognize our limitations and we rejoice that there are people (like you!) who come to help us build up and maintain what God has called us to do.
      Our groups have ranged in size from 2-35, in age from 5 to 65, and comprised of men and women. We have had the joy of working together in the garden, installing drywall, hooking up electricity, painting, cleaning, and a myriad of other projects. There is a broad scope of characteristics and accomplishments in our past groups, and your unique contribution will add to that history. By participating in a Work Camp at Good Works, you will leave your mark on us in practical, visible ways. But the more significant impact you will have will be unseen by many as you take the time to learn from someone and impart dignity and value to someone struggling with poverty. Above all we rejoice at the opportunity to build up the Body of Christ as we serve together.
     This information is intended to give you an overview of planning a Short-Term Mission Trip to Good Works. These pages will give you information on Good Works in general, initial planning, the work projects, and how to get here. Together we can plan for your Short-Term Mission Trip to be a successful one. You may print this handbook and keep it in your files to make copies as needed.
     Thank you again for committing to serve with us! We welcome you and pray that your journey of service will bless you as you are a blessing to us and to all those we seek to serve.
     In preparation for participating in a Short-Term Mission Trip to Good Works, we recommend reading an article by Noel Becchetti, President of the Center for Student Missions called, "Why Most Mission Trips Are a Waste of Time"