Coming together for NJ – 2016 Work Week

July 9-16, 2016

Join us in New Jersey for a week of service as we rebuild, renew and restore those affected by Hurricane Sandy.

Information about this important ministry can be found in the tabs below. For further inquiries please contact Victoria Goff at the American Baptist Home Mission Societies.
[label style="default" icon="phone"]Phone[/label] 610-768-2449 [label style="info" icon="envelope"]Email[/label] vgoff@abhms.org

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• hands-on efforts to rebuild homes, communities and lives
• encouraging and supporting those in need
• worshiping with local American Baptist congregations
• enjoying the New Jersey shore.[/tab_1] [tab_2]

How do I participate in New Jersey Work Weeks?

• If coming as a group, assign a group leader to be responsible for making and confirming reservations. If you aren’t coming in a group, you are still very welcome to participate.
• Download registration packet at www.abhms.org/caring_ministries/vim or www.abcnj.net and return application and release forms with the registration fee.
• Once the forms are received, you will receive a confirmation letter/e-mail and a volunteer information packet. The volunteer information packet will include detailed information on housing, the agenda, what to expect and what to bring.

What is the time commitment?

Volunteers are asked to serve one week. Arrive on Saturday, plan to worship with a local American Baptist congregation on Sunday morning, explore the area on Sunday afternoon, work Monday-Friday, and travel home on Saturday. If your schedule only permits you to come for part of the week, you are definitely welcome to join us.

Are there any age requirements?

YES, at this time we ask that all volunteers be over the age of 14. Those using power tools must be over the age of 18 years old. Youth groups must include an appropriate ratio of 1 adult advisor for every 4 youth of each gender.

Do I need to be a member of an American Baptist church?

No. People of all faith traditions are welcome to participate.

How can I help even if I can't go to a New Jersey Work Week?

• Sponsor someone else that desires to attend.
• Host a fundraiser to support volunteers and other costs.
• Offer prayers for the region and the volunteers.

What type of work will I be doing?

There is normally a variety of home repair activities like painting, laying sheet rock, and cutting grass, etc.

What do I need to bring with me?

• Work clothes that can get dirty and are loose-fitting
• A change of clothes for the end of the work day
• Closed-toed shoes that are suitable for construction work • Sunscreen and a hat
• Water bottle
• Hand Sanitizer
• Plastic or cotton work gloves
• Personal hygiene items
• Small personal flashlight

Do I have to bring my own tools?

No, the local organization has all of the tools that are needed. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their own eye protection and work gloves; however safety equipment will be provided for those who do not have any. Volunteers are notified if they need to bring any particular tools.

Do I need to have construction skills?

No. Unskilled volunteers, male or female, with a willingness to learn are invited to work alongside those who are skilled.

Is there any other kind of help needed besides construction?

Yes. People are needed to run errands and to help the New Jersey Work Weeks run smoothly.

Is there any special training?

No. The local disaster organization trains volunteers to serve in various areas of construction.

If I’m flying to New Jersey, which airport should I use?

Volunteers coming for the July work week can consider the following airports:

• Philadelphia (PHL), 80 miles; approximately 1 1⁄2-hour drive;
• Newark (EWR), 50 miles; approximately 1-hour drive;
• Trenton (IND), 50 miles; approximately 1-hour drive;
• Atlantic City (BMI), 65 miles; approximately 1 1⁄4-hour drive

Do I need my own transportation?

It is recommended that volunteers provide their own transportation. If needed, assistance will be provided regarding finding suitable transportation to and from worksites.

What can I expect for housing accommodations?

Housing accommodations have been made at local churches in the community.

Air mattresses are needed for those staying at the churches. If you are able to bring your own cot or mattress, it would be greatly appreciated, otherwise one will be provided. Housing will be dorm style.

What can I expect for food accommodations?

All meals will be provided. We will do our best to accommodate the needs of vegetarians and those with food allergies.[/tab_2] [tab_3]

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