About the Journey

Hola a mi familia y mis amigos!

As some of you know, on May 10^th I graduated from Lenoir-Rhyne University. Yay!  Then starting August 14^th I have a new exciting adventure awaiting me. I will live and volunteer in Mexico for one year with the ELCA YAGM (Young Adults in Global Mission Program). Those of us participating in the program are often referred to as YAGMs (pronounced yeah-gums!).

2013-2014 YAGMs at DIP Weekend

There are about 64 YAGMS from all across the country that will be setting off for 9 different locations in the world. Please keep them as well as myself in your prayers. I will be traveling with 5 other YAGMS and 2 country coordinators to live in or near Mexico City for approximately 11 months. I will be working with SARAR in a town called Tepoztlan which is just south of Mexico City. I was told that I will be doing "un poco de todo" (a little bit of everything). There will be a combination of office work (which may include learning about and working with the things such as grant writing, reporting, reporting, social media) and environmental education in the community. They just started a new project that is focused on preschoolers and elementary school age kids.

I would also like to share with you all the program goals so you can understand a little more about the program:

*Provide the YAGM with a year-long international mission experience that will contribute to their development as servant-leaders

*Provide the YAGM with opportunities to grow in their faith and to better understand their place in God’s world

*Equip the YAGM with cross-cultural, relationship building, and leadership skills

*Provide support and presence with/among global companion churches and organizations

*Help shape globally formed and informed leaders who will impact the ELCA as well as the wider church and society

*Share with ELCA congregations and other U.S. communities the story of what God’s up to around the world

It costs approximately $11,000 for my year living in Mexico. The ELCA covers most of the cost, but I am responsible for raising $4,000 of my own funds. I have included a sponsor sheet at the bottom of the page if you would like to financially support me.

I’m very excited about this upcoming year and look forward to including you all in my journey. I will be in contact during my year and plan updating this blog when possible. If you are interested in knowing more about the program feel free to ask me or click here to visit the "YAGM” page! J

Blessings,

Rachel

Young Adults in Global Mission volunteers, ranging in age from 19-29, take the plunge into a life-changing year-long journey in communities around the world. As they share their gifts in service, they also receive the gifts of their hosts’ hospitality, engaging in relationship of mutuality, interdependence, solidarity and trust.  

Sponsor Sheet (click to enlarge)