What personal items should I bring?
There is quite the list, so brace yourself…
- Bible
- Pens
- Small journal for every student
- Sleeping bag
- Pillow
- Toilet articles (soap, shampoo, deodorant, toothbrush, etc.)
- Work clothes (old jeans and shirts - no tank tops)
- Everyday clothes (for just hanging out in during the evening)
- Raincoat (we work rain or shine)
- Closed-toe shoes
- Water bottle
- Work gloves
- Safety goggles
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
- Plastic bag for dirty clothes
- Snacks

What tools do I need to bring?
Tools will vary depending on the location and individual work project. We will give you a tool list as soon as you sign up. Some common tools include: hammers, tape measurers, trowels, saws, etc.

How are projects chosen?
We have focused our work efforts on large causes in an effort to create a stable and long-term impact in each of our locations. To establish these causes, Next Step Ministries works with local relief agencies, social service agencies, nonprofits, and community churches to establish where the greatest need is in each community. We also work with these bodies to identify disadvantaged individuals who require our assistance.

How are trips staffed?
Every trip location is overseen by a regional director responsible for lining up all worksites, lodging, and other logistical items. During the summer, each location is staffed with four energetic, mission-minded and highly-trained college interns who serve either as an Administrative Director, Worksite Director, Worship Director or Community Director. In addition, skilled professionals donate their time to oversee the worksites, give instruction and make sure all work being performed is up to code. In addition, we have residents within each location who volunteer their time to make sure the trips run without a hitch. You are well looked after on a Next Step Ministries mission trip.

Are the sites safe?
Yes. We work hard to ensure your students’ safety on our trips. Each Next Step Ministries’ housing facility is in a safe and secure location, trained professionals oversee every work project, and all staff is CPR certified and First Aid trained. Having said that, this is a mission trip and every now and then a student is going to hit their thumb with a hammer or step on a nail. If an injury does happen, every site is equipped with first-aid medical supplies and transportation in case a run to the hospital is necessary.

Will our group work with other groups?
Our locations accommodate 50 to 100 students, so most likely, you will be working, worshiping and sleeping with other youth. We try to mix up students to encourage new friendships and open fellowship, but we also understand that some groups prefer not to have their students split up on different work crews. We can definitely accommodate this if you let us know in advance.

What if the trip is full?
We run trips on a first-come, first-served basis. Our locations can usually accommodate 50 to 100 students, so even if there is another group signed up for a trip, there may still be enough spots for your group. In the event that we are booked, we can put you on a waiting list or sign you up for an alternative trip. To avoid these delays, please sign up early.

What if I want to stay longer?
If your group wants to work longer than 1 week, we can arrange this for additional costs. Give us a call and we’ll set up the perfect trip for you.

When do I need to pay?
A $50 deposit per student is due no more than thirty days after registration. For summer break trips, 50% of your group’s balance is due by March 15th, 2010, with the remaining balance due by May 15th, 2010. For winter and spring break trips, a payment schedule will be decided on an individual group basis.

*Early Bird Registration by Dec. 1, 2009 - Youth Leader FREE!

What do I need for traveling to the Bahamas?
All Americans traveling by air outside of the United States are required to present a passport to enter the Bahamas and re-enter the United States. Obtaining a passport can be quite a process, taking 3 months or longer to complete. Please make sure every student has a passport, and if they don’t, make sure they take the necessary action to get a passport in time for the trip.