Making a Difference in a Globalized World: Short-term Missions that Work

Every year, an estimated 1.6 million Americans participate in short-term mission trips, spending over one billion dollars?figures that have increased exponentially in the last two decades. About one third of U. S. congregations sponsor such trips each year. While they are referred to as ?mission? trips, many trips focus not on conversion or evangelism, but on service projects?building a playground, providing medical care, or serving free meals to the poor. Short-term mission participants have a genuine desire to transform conditions of poverty, yet they don't always know how to go about it; many people involved in short-term mission work virtually reinvent the wheel when they design and plan their service projects.

Here is a guide for leaders of such trips?presenting clear insight and research from anthropologists and development professionals?that will help them have a greater impact on
the communities they are serving. The framework for planning short-term mission trips outlined
here provides a firm foundation for maximizing their effectiveness. Laurie A. Occhipinti draws in her reader with personal anecdotes, using case studies to illustrate her points, and engages them with thoughtful analysis of the work that is done during short-term missions. Filled with practical suggestions for creating effective volunteer opportunities, this handbook is a vital resource for any potential mission volunteer.