“And to the ends of the earth…” (Acts 1:8)
Do you have a desire to help children in East Africa? Is your youth group needing an opportunity to look beyond their own circumstances and see God at work in another culture? Does an adult group from your church want to experience their faith in Jesus on a new level? Is your school looking for a tangible way to encourage children in another country?
HopeCo is always looking for more partners who will send mission teams to Kenya and Tanzania!
Hopeco mission teams:
Involve 5-20 participants
Are usually formed from a church, school, or organization
Serve in Tanzania for up to two weeks
Teams usually work together to accomplish a specific goal, such as leading a children’s program, painting a new classroom, helping on a construction project, offering medical support, or providing training, depending on a team’s skills.
Our commitment to excellence:
HopeCo is committed to the highest possible standards and best practices in sending teams to East Africa. That’s why we are accredited members of MissionExcellence and committed to following their seven standards for short-term missions.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Below you will find common questions about HopeCo mission trips. If you have additional questions, just ask!
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We have hosted dozens of teams over the years, and have received hundreds of positive testimonies. In addition, HopeCo is an accredited member of MissionExcellence, an organization that hold us accountable to their seven standards for mission teams. You can read more here.
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Some skills you have that might be helpful include:
-Maintenance or construction
-Organizing and leading activities for children
-Music, art, or drama
-Tutoring children
-Training/workshops
-A willing heart and a flexible attitude!
-Other skills welcome … Let us know what you are passionate about!
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Prices vary depending on the length of the trip. The cost per person is around $1950 plus airfare. This includes food, lodging, local travel, project costs, insurance, work permit, and a donation to our programs. A short safari can be added for an additional cost.
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Fundraising can be challenging…so let us help! Here are some ideas to raise funds for your trip and have fun at the same time!
Send support letters. When you ask people to donate to your trip, remember to share your heart behind going and invite them to be part of the journey with you. Your supporters will love to see pictures, hear stories, and to talk to you after you get home!
Create an online fundraiser that you can easily share on social media and with your friends and family. We can set up a personalized fundraising page just for you! Just ask!
Sell custom T-Shirts or crafts.
Create an Adopt-a-Box fundraiser.
Host a bake sale or garage sale.
Run a car wash.
Host a movie night, charity concert, or auction.
Partner with a restaurant.
Collect recycling.
Host a 50/50 raffle.
The options are endless, and the choice is yours!
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You can find the specific directions for applying for visas here.
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Try to pack lightly. You will be able to wash clothes at City of Hope. Because of baggage limitations on the flights within Africa, we recommend one checked bag (max 15 kg/33 pounds), one carry-on bag (max 5 kg/11 pounds), and one personal item (like a purse or fanny pack).
You can find a complete packing list here.
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Only the Yellow Fever vaccination is required for team members. This is not a HopeCo requirement, but something the Tanzanian/Kenyan governments require. Consult with your doctor or local travel clinic to see what other vaccinations are suggested for your trip. Your doctor may also suggest a prescription for anti-malaria medicine.
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We are no longer encouraging teams to bring donated items because of the limited baggage allowance for the flights within Africa. A financial donation to our programs is included in your trip costs, and you have the opportunity to donate to HopeCo while on your trip. You can even sign up to sponsor a child you meet!
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While it is nice to learn a few phrases in the Swahili language, many of the children and staff in HopeCo’s programs speak English.
from a team member…
“This trip has truly changed Reece and me. We felt and continue to feel so much joy, peace, and love from the kids and the staff. Immediately upon arrival at the City of Hope, I heard from the team members how at home they felt. The children and staff have a deep reverence for the Lord that has strongly impacted me. My spirit feels so enriched. You are truly continuing to change the world in the states and in Tanzania.”
Angela O’Connell, Mission Team Member
Ready to go?
ASK FOR MORE INFORMATION BY using the form below
More Questions? Contact Kristi!
Kristi Smith
Mission Teams Administrator
Thank you again for your willingness to serve children and families in East Africa - they can’t wait to meet you! We are here to support you as you prepare for your trip, and to answer any questions you may have.
You can reach out to Kristi Smith with any questions you have regarding your trip, travel, or other HopeCo related questions.
We hope to see you in Africa soon!