trip handbook summer

June 24 July 3

Its Summer 2015 with Son Servants! Dear Son Servant Leader: The first Son Servants trip was way back in 1982 when approximately 60 high school students and adult leaders spent two weeks working on a church in the Yucatan Peninsula. Although much has changed in the past 30 plus years, some things have remained the same. One constant is our appreciation of your participation in our program, and another is our commitment to providing your group with a quality experience. Thank you so much for your confidence in Son Servants and for giving us the privilege of serving you through missions. You and your students are an invaluable part of our ministry. Included in this Downloads Section are items to help you (and us) prepare for your Son Servants experience. You can download all material at ycmhome.org/son-servants/downloads-ss. Please take the time to thoroughly read through all of this information. Download Checklist:

Leader Handbook: This book contains information on finances, forms, trip details, travel, background and cultural information. We have compiled this handbook for all your trip questions and ask that you please print and distribute to your leaders.

Participant Section: The Must-Know Info for all of your trip participants. This is section 5 of this handbook. Please copy, give out, and go over with each of your participants (students and adults).

eForms: These eforms are available online through your registration account: Group List, Group Composition and T-Shirt Order. They must be completed and submitted online by April 15.

By Mail Checklist:

Med Forms: You will receive from us specific medical instructions and two copies of medical forms for each person. DO NOT return these to our office; bring them with you to camp. If you need extras, they will also be available online, but we would prefer you use the originals sent from our office.

We will communicate with you several times in the months leading up to the trip. We are also available to answer your questions or concerns, or just to chat about the trip and how we can make it a meaningful and challenging experience for your group. Please feel free to contact us at any time during the preparation process if you have any questions. Our goal is to provide you with the very best experience possible so that you, your youth, and your church will be strengthened as well as challenged. Christ has called us all to live our lives as He lived His as a servant. It is our hope and prayer that participating in a short-term mission experience will fuel an already present desire to follow Christ or perhaps spark an interest in that direction. Whichever is the case for your students, you will have the satisfaction of being present as these issues are struggled with and decisions are made. Thanks again for joining us. We look forward to being with you this summer. Blessings, Danny Dotson, Laura Hertgers and Del Francescon Son Servants Staff, Youth Conference Ministries (YCM)

Son Servants Group Leader Checklist

Register (pay a $150 deposit for every space you want to reserve)

Download trip handbook, print, insert into notebook or binder.

Distribute participant section of this handbook to ALL participants (students AND adults.)

Make sure everyone has a valid passport. If applying for a new passport, apply now it has taken as long as 3 months to get them in the past.

Begin arranging flights. You need to arrive in Montego Bay before 3:00 PM. Remember there is a 3 hour drive between camp and the airport.

Add spaces (if available) by February 2 to receive $15 discount.

Drop any spaces before March 10 so as not to lose deposit.

Make first payment (50% of balance) by March 10 to avoid a 5% penalty. Mail to: Son Servants, 1200 Mountain Creek Road, Suite 350, Chattanooga, TN 37405

Distribute TWO Medical Forms to each participant; establish a due date for these to be returned to you prior to the trip. Do not send them to the Son Servants office. If you need extra copies, call the office or go to Son Servants downloads page: (ycmhome.org/son-servants/downloads-ss)

Distribute copies of the Participant Handbook to everyone in your group. Go over details such as dress code, money needed, basic schedule, etc.

Complete online forms by April 15.

Make final payment by April 24 to avoid a 5% penalty.

Look for a UPS shipment with t-shirts, quiet time guides, field guides for your counselors, and instructions about immigration forms to arrive in mid-May.

Distribute t-shirts to your group. You may want to take the Quiet Time Guides in your own luggage to insure that they get to Jamaica.

Distribute field guides to adult leaders and go over both your expectations for them as well as Son Servants expectations.

Quick Reference

Addresses Son Servants Jamaica 1200 Mountain Creek Road, Suite 350 Chattanooga, TN 37405 (Note: Specific Jamaica camp address will be mailed in the spring with your T-shirts)

Web www.ycmhome.org/sonservants Email del@ycmhome.org (registration and financial questions) laura@ycmhome.org (camp-specific issues, online form questions or changes) danny@ycmhome.org (any other concerns or questions)

Numbers Office: 423.624.2495 Fax: 423.624.7482

Links For Son Servants downloads: http://ycmhome.org/son-servants/downloads-ss For Son Servants trip info: http://ycmhome.org/son-servants/schedule-ss/

Table of Contents

Section One: Pre-Trip Preparation....1 Finances & Forms, Payment schedule, Refund Policy, Medical Forms, Online Forms

Section Two: Trip Details....4 Tentative Schedule, Housing, Work Projects, About the Daily Schedule, Transportation, What to Bring, Counselor Policy

Section Three: Travel.11 General Information, Insurance Option, Address/Emergency Info

Section Four: Cultural Information..13 About Jamaica

Section Five: Participant Section...18 What we Do, Daily Schedule, Where We Stay, Rules, Packing List, Dress Code, What Not to Bring

Section Six: SGO.......26 Whats SGO? How to Sign Up

Section Seven: Parent Section...28 Parent Information

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Payment Schedule

Refund Policy

Pre-trip Preparation: *Finances & Forms *Payment schedule *Refund Policy *Medical Forms *Online Forms

o Cost covers housing, meals, construction, in-country transportation, and program. It does not include transportation to the location or the costs of meals while traveling.

o Payment schedule: Deposit $150/person required to reserve space First payment 50% of balance due March 10, 2015 Final payment Remaining balance due April 24, 2015

o Be sure your payments are prompt. We must pay 90% of all costs prior to the trip and need this money on hand to do so. Please send all payments to:

SON SERVANTS Jamaica 1200 Mountain Creek Road, Suite 350 CHATTANOOGA, TN 37405

o Deposits for mission trips are NOT refundable. o Until March 10, 2015 the deposit for any cancellations may be transferred

to the balance of the trip. o After March 10, 2015, deposits are non-transferable and non-refundable.

o You will be responsible for the ENTIRE COST of the trip for any cancellations made within 60 days of the trip (after April 24). Funds cannot be transferred at any time to any other YCM event.

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Other Money

Medical Form Instructions

Section-by-Section Breakdown

o Each youth should bring money with them for the following: o Meals while traveling; possibly one meal on the fun day; o Snacks (available at camp) o Souvenirs- there will be opportunities for students to purchase from local artists and friends

of Son Servants o An offering toward Son Servants continued work in Jamaica

We suggest that youth bring no more than $200.

o U.S. dollars are accepted at camp.

o There is little to no access to an ATM machine and Travelers Checks are not accepted in the craft market or at camp.

o We recommend each leader bring extra money in case a student loses his/her money or for emergency situations. We recommend each leader have $50 extra per student.

SIDE A: Medical Insurance and Emergency Contact Information o The reason for this is fairly obvious. We hope we wont have to use it, but everyone needs to fill this

out. o General Medical Information: This is the information our doctors and nurses have told us they need to

have right in front of them in order to treat anything. Everyone needs to fill this out.

SIDE B: Medical Evaluation Form o This form helps us to insure that the students are, as best as a doctor can tell, physically able to

participate. This is required for minors and recommended for adults.

Behavior Contract o All participants, both students and adults, must sign this contract.

Medical Emergency Treatment Authorization & Release of Liability o All participants must complete this. o This is particularly important because it grants permission for you as the youth leader to be taking a

student out of the country.

The Son Servants office will send two blank medical forms for each person in your group, plus a few extras. Please give two forms to each participant (adults included). *(If you need additional forms, they are available on the Son Servants downloads webpage)

1. BOTH copies of the med form must be completed and notarized.

A notarized copy with original signatures by both parents or legal guardians (even if parents are divorced) is required for everyone under the age of 18. Adult forms do not have to be notarized.

2. Collect both copies with original signatures and bring to camp. Photocopied versions will not work.

3. Upon arrival, turn in one form per person to the Son Servants Staff for use by the medical staff and for our records. Keep one for your own records and travel home.

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eForm Instructions

Group List o EVERYONE in your group- students AND adults. o List each participants first and last name, gender, category (student or adult) and grade o Emergency contact during travel- this should be someone NOT attending the trip

Group Composition o We need to know more about the adults in your group, such as skill levels, speaking or music abilities, age

range, email address and more. Please talk to your adult volunteers about their skills and their willingness to lead in certain areas before filling it out!

o We also have a few questions for you about the make-up of your group as a whole and what you hope they gain from this experience.

T-Shirt Order Form- (t-shirt is included in the cost of your trip) o Sizes for EVERYONE in your group

**Failure to complete this form by April 15 will result in your group getting whatever t-shirt sizes are left over after other orders have been filled.

These forms are available on our website (www.ycmhome.org/sonservants):

o Click on Register to log in to your online account

o All forms need to be completed online by April 15. And by April 15, we mean April 15!

o Once you complete the online form, you can go back to your account to edit your forms.

o Please note the descriptions below so you will know what information you need before going to fill out the online forms.

o If you have any trouble with a form, please contact Laura at laura@ycmhome.org or (423) 624-2495.

We understand that it can be difficult to get your Group List finalized by April 15; however, it is imperative that we have this as close to this date as possible so we can organize each camps work groups. If you are unable to make this deadline, please contact us to let us know when we can expect your completed Group List. T-shirt Order Form due date is non-negotiable, as we have to order these in time to get them mailed out to you before the summer. W

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Housing

Trip Details: *Housing *Schedule *What to Bring *Construction Projects *Childrens Ministry *Daily Transportation *Counselor Policy

o Son Servants will be conducting two camps in Mandeville in 2013:

Kendal Camp in Shooters Hill approximately 125 people

Moorlands Camp in Spurtree approximately 125 people

o Guys and girls will be housed in separate rooms or buildings, and we try to keep church groups together.

o Sleeping will be mostly on bunk beds, but possibly on twin beds or even mattresses on floors. Mattresses will be provided in all cases.

o Bathroom and shower facilities will be adequate, but limited and cold. Make sure your group is prepared to stand in line and take short cold showers.

o The camps will provide meals that will be a combination of Jamaican and American food.

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Schedule

June/July 2015

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

24 Day 1 GROUPS ARRIVE!! - Bus ride fun! - Orientation

- Settle in

25 Day 2

- work day 1 SGO Day 1

26 Day 3 - work day 2 SGO Day 2

27 Day 4 - PLAY DAY!!

- Dunns River Falls

- market in Ocho Rios

28 Day 5

- visit local church

lots of free/nap time

29 Day 6

- work day 3 SGO Day 3

30 Day 7

- work day 4 SGO Day 4

1 Day 8

- work day 5 SGO Day 5

2 Day 9

- work day - camp

clean-up closing program

3 Day 10

- head to Montego Bay for departure

Tentative Schedule* (subject to minor changes)

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Rise and Shine

Quiet Time

Breakfast

Gather/Leave

with Work Groups

Work Day with Lunch

Shower / Free Time

Dinner

Counselor Meetings

Evening Program

Family Time

Head for Bed

Lights Out

Son Servants provides a QUIET TIME guide for each participant. In the morning, right before or right after

breakfast depending on your specific camp, the entire group

will be still and individually spend time with the Lord.

Please prepare your students before the trip for this time.

About the Daily Schedule

If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also. If anyone serves Me, him my Father will

honor. John 12:26

Now that youve seen the Tentative Schedule at the beginning of this section, here are a few descriptions of the daily activities of a Son Servants trip. Remember, this daily schedule is an example only; it will be adjusted to fit our needs once we are together. We try to be flexible with the schedule and may make adjustments throughout the week to accommodate our plans and program.

FAMILY TIME is time for your youth group to spend together

playing, talking and growing closer through the shared

experience. We provide some ideas and suggestions and

really encourage you to use this time for processing the

trip with your students, however, this time is yours to

use as you wish!

The camp will be divided into WORK GROUPS of 8-12

people. The work group will remain together all week. Usually there is a project

coordinator from our host agency or Son Servants staff

with each work group. Adults with construction experience

may be asked to help lead a work project.

COUNSELOR MEETINGS provide times for leaders to worship, fellowship and pray together. It is also a time to

receive information and announcements and to express any concerns you have. We ask all groups to send at least one

representative to each counselor meeting.

Evening Program consists of singing, skits, testimonies,

speakers and other activities. It is designed to build group unity

and encourage spiritual growth. Although the Son Servants staff will plan the

meetings, input and involvement by groups and their leaders is desired and

encouraged!

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Transportation

What to Bring

o The participant section contains information on what each individual should bring for the tripas well as what not to bring. Please pay close attention to this and help your students understand and abide by these regulations, as it will make for a better experience for all involved!

o We ask that each group bring the following items for use with the childrens program: (leftovers will be donated)

At least one package of construction paper (multi color)

At least one set of markers

One box of zip lock bags (pint size)

One box of zip lock bags (gallon size)

Decorating stuff-- glitter, sequins, beads, feathers, ribbon, felt scraps, etc. (This is a great opportunity to clean out your Christian Education closet!)

o Two completed medical forms (signed by both parents and notarized) for each participant.

The Son Servants team will meet you at the airport and direct you to the appropriate bus heading to your camp. For the rest of the week, as you travel daily from camp to the work site you will ride in buses run by a local bus company Son Servants has worked with for many years. Jamaicans drive on the left, so just riding the bus on the winding, pothole-filled roads is a great adventure. But dont worry - you will get there safely!

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Construction and Outreach Projects

Houses for Individuals

The Infirmary

The Manchester Infirmary, known to locals as the poorhouse, is a home for mentally and physically handicapped Jamaicans who have no one else willing to care for them. Over the years, Son Servants has initiated many projects to improve this facility, including covering their water cistern, painting, and building wheelchair ramps, porches, and a washhouse. In addition, Son Servants visit with the residents who rarely have someone to spend time with them. Our presence is so important to them and they look forward to the Son Servants arriving every year! Getting to know these people has often been a difficult, but very joyful, experience. You and your students will be greatly impacted as you see the face of Christ in the residents of the Infirmary. Every participant on the Jamaica trip will spend some time at the Infirmary.

It can take years and years for a family to complete the building of their home in Jamaica. Typically they will save money for years to buy a plot of land, save for several more years to buy supplies, and then build until the supplies run out. Then the saving process begins again. Son Servants receives applications from families who have inadequate housing and need help building, improving, or repairing their homes. With your help, we are able to help families get into their homes many years sooner than they otherwise would. In the past several years, we have worked on the homes of over 30 families, and we will continue this ministry this summer.

In our many years of taking senior high students to Jamaica, Son Servants has established relationships with local pastors, missionaries, and organizations. Each year we select projects on which to work. The following list includes a sampling of the projects we will be working on.

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The New Hope and Hanbury Childrens Homes

Summers Greatest Outreach SGO

In addition to the construction work, a 3-4 day childrens outreach (called SGO - the Summers Greatest Outreach) will be conducted by both camps at local schools or churches. The programs will be conducted at the Ebenezer All Age School, the New Testament Churchs preschool and the Hanbury Home for Children.

The outreach includes singing, telling Bible Stories, games and crafts. This has been one of our most successful and popular ministries in past years. It is a great way to get to know the local children and help them learn about Jesus. Work teams sometimes do construction or repair work on the school or church facility in conjunction with the program.

A core group of 6-8 students will work on this project for its duration, but all interested persons will be able to participate at least once. A core group application is explained in the SGO section and found on our website- ycmhome.org/son-servants/downloads-ss. The form must be completed online. Please point this out to your students and encourage those who are willing to take the challenge to apply.

New Hope is an infant and toddler orphanage for babies who have been abandoned or neglected by their parents. It is privately owned and funded and cares for up to 20 children at a time. Son Servants campers staying at Moorlands Camp help out with various tasks such as washing clothes and diapers or feeding and playing with the children.

Hanbury Home is an orphanage and school run by the Salvation Army and it is home to dozens of school-aged children. Participants staying at the Kendal Camp will have the opportunity to work with children at this facility.

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Adult Leader Policies & Expectations

Adult to Student Ratio

Expectations for Adult Leaders

Son Servants classifies all adults accompanying their church youth group (including both paid church staff and volunteers) as adult leaders and has certain expectations for them. It is our strong belief that adult leaders play an important role on Son Servants mission trips. (More details are in the Leader Field Guide you will receive in May)

o Adult leaders are asked to set an example that is pleasing and glorifying to Christ before ALL participants, not just those from their own churches.

o It is our hope and expectation that in all areas including dress code compliance, meeting attendance, work site conduct, bed time and wake-up, and unexpected situations adult leaders would set an example of love, service, and cooperation and encourage their students by word and deed to do the same.

o Adult leaders are asked to be encouragers and teachers on the worksites and to lead the worksite if needed (especially if an adult has construction experience that he or she is willing to share).

o Adult leaders are also asked to:

attend counselor meetings

enforce the rules and discipline when necessary

help with wake-up and bedtime

be alert to student behavior during quiet time, always setting the example and encouraging students to use that time well.

For reasons of safety, supervision, and support, each group attending a Son Servants trip should be prepared to meet the Son Servants requirement of one adult leader for every six students in your group in relation to gender. If you are unable to meet this ratio, please contact our office to discuss possible solutions.

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Flight Arrangements

Travel Day Instructions

Travel: *Flight Arrangements *Passports and Documents *Insurance Options *Transportation

o Your group will fly into Montego Bay and then travel by bus (3-4 hours) to Mandeville. Due to the long bus ride, please try to arrive no later than early afternoon.

o With rising airfare costs, it is important to check all feasible options of departing airports and times. You are free to book travel however you wish but here are some reliable booking agents:

o Harper Travel International has been serving as our travel agent for years and is very familiar with our travel needs. Please contact Mary Harper Kemick at mkemick@att.net or 713-530-1961.

o 963 Missions- Contact Joe Crenshaw at joe@highpoint963.com or 214.691.0707 ext 312. www.highpoint963.com

o Please send a copy of your itinerary to the Son Servants office ASAP to arrange bus transportation at the beginning and end of your trip.

o We strongly suggest checking the Transportation Security Administrations website (www.tsa.gov) travel tips for a list of allowable and prohibited carry-on items. Make sure everyone from your group is informed of these regulations before traveling.

We will let each group know which camp they will be staying in when we send out

t-shirts in the spring, if not before. Before your group departs from home, please make sure that all of your groups bags are marked with the color that corresponds to YOUR CAMP:

Kendal BLUE Moorlands RED

You can use ribbon or yarn (or whatever works) just make sure it is obvious. This will help us make sure your bags get from the Jamaica airport to the right bus and eventually to the right camp!

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Passports & Other Documents Travel Insurance Option

Although YCM does not require that your group obtain travel insurance, we do recommend you consider it. Travel insurance is a precautionary measure that wont actually cost you that much money up front, but could save you significantly in the long run. We have an established relationship with Gallagher Charitable International Insurance Services and we would recommend them to you for short term coverage. Please contact them directly to enroll: www.aaintl.com; 800-922-8438 or 803-758-1400; P.O. Box 5845, Columbia SC 29250.

Basic summary of coverage: Coverage is short term for volunteers 12 years old and older. It includes property insurance, emergency medical transportation, repatriation of remains, accidental death coverage, and medical expenses. Medical costs are reimbursed to you after youve paid the deductible. Coverage is priced on a per student/per day basis. (This is only a summary of coverage options; please contact AAI for the fine print and exclusions).

o Each participant who is an American citizen needs proper documentation for the immigration departments, both in Jamaica and the United States

o The United States government now REQUIRES a passport for anyone traveling to a Caribbean nation, so make sure your group gets started on the passport process early. It can take 12 weeks or more to get one and it takes longer closer to the summer.

o Residents of other countries (i.e. exchange students) need BOTH a passport AND a visa.

o Please be sure that everyone in your group has the necessary documents and that they are valid through the end of July.

o We suggest you bring a zippered moneybag or similar container in which you will collect passports, immigration forms and extra money from your group once you are in Jamaica, so they will not get lost. We will keep this bag in a safe place for you.

o We strongly suggest checking the Transportation Security Administrations website (www.tsa.gov) travel tips for a list of allowable and prohibited carry-on items. Make sure everyone from your group is informed of these regulations before traveling.

The Son Servants Staff will meet your group at the airport in Montego Bay and transport you to the camp. We ask that your group wear their

Son Servants T-Shirts (which we will send in the spring) to identify you as a group and make it easier for us to connect with you. We will send information about customs and immigration closer to the departure

date, and we will also discuss this on a conference call in May.

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Jamaica

All Son Servants groups fly into Montego Bay and then take buses to the

camps in the Mandeville area.

Cultural Information *About Jamaica *

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About Jamaica

Geography and Climate

History

The third largest of the Caribbean Islands, Jamaica covers 4411 square miles. The island is 146 miles long with widths varying from 22 to 58 miles. The terrain is mountainous, with about half the island over 1000 feet in altitude. Jamaica has a tropical climate with no winter, although it is slightly cooler during our winter season than in summer. It is cooler in the mountains where we will be. Most of the rainfall occurs between late April through June and then in September through November. Jamaica is a very beautiful coral reef island with many rivers and waterfalls, including YS Falls and which we will visit. Kingston, the largest city, is a major shipping port with the seventh largest natural harbor in the world. Jamaica is also known for its famous Blue Lagoon, as well as its flora and fauna.

Christopher Columbus landed in Jamaica in 1494, and again in 1503, when he was forced to remain for a year because of worm eaten ships. Within a few years after the Spaniards settled the island, the native Arawak people had all been killed or had died from overwork, abuse and the European diseases, from which they had no immunity. The Spaniards then imported slaves from Africa to work on their plantations. The British captured Jamaica from the Spaniards in 1655 and created a vast sugar empire. After England abolished slavery in 1838, the British brought indentured slaves from Asia and East India. Jamaica gained its independence from Britain in 1962.

Population: 2,889,187 (July 2012 est.) Capital: Kingston Peoples: 91.2% Afro-Caribbean

6.2% Asian-Afro-Asian 2.6% Euro-American

Official Language: English Govt: Parliamentary Democracy Average annual income: $1080 (5% of USA) Unemployment: 12.8% island-wide (Higher in Newport area) Literacy: 88% Religion: Protestant 63% Catholic - 3% Other 14% none - 20%

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The People and the Language

Economy

Government

Religion

The population of Jamaica is over 2.5 million, with 65% under 35 years old. More than 90% of Jamaicans are of African or partly African descent. The people are friendly and hospitable. The great variety in early peoples (Indian, Spanish, British, African, Asian, East Asia, and Jewish) has resulted in great diversity in physical appearances in the Jamaican people today.

The official language of Jamaica is English, but most people also speak a Jamaican Creole called patois which is a rough Elizabethan English with French and Spanish overtones and an African grammar structure.

The economy suffered when slavery was abolished due to lack of laborers for the plantations. Most people are still farmers, although the tourist and mining industries bring in the most money. The mining and processing of bauxite (alumina) is Jamaicas second leading industry, next to tourism, and its primary export. You will see evidence of the mining in the parts of the island you visit. The top agricultural products are sugar and sugar cane by-products, which account for about one-half of the agricultural exports, and bananas which are the second largest agricultural export. Other exports include citrus fruits, pimento (allspice), coconuts, and the world-famous Blue Mountain coffee (a great gift to take back!).

The Queen of England is head of state in title only, and is represented on the island by a Governor General, who is a Jamaican. The Prime Minister is the true head of government. Jamaica has a parliament made up of a House of Representatives, which is elected by the people, and a Senate, whose members are appointed by the Governor General. Jamaica has three political parties, the Peoples National Party (PNP), the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), and the National Democratic Movement (NDM). Election periods can be very tumultuous, violent times in Jamaica.

Jamaica has been very heavily evangelized since the early rule of the British, and there are churches every few miles. Evangelicals are numerically strong and form high proportions of the population. Although more than 65% of the population is of the Christian faith, it is estimated that only 36% attend church. Confused family relationships, lax morality and increasing crime are alarmingly prevalent. Many young people turn away to Marxism, spiritism, Rastafarianism and other offbeat lifestyles because of the inconsistent lives of their elders and turmoil in their own hearts. Rastafarians are a true force in Jamaica, numbering about 70,000. They reject a Western worldview and champion Black consciousness, exotic lifestyles, and drug use.

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1. Can you name any people who are prominent in the affairs of your host country (politics, athletics, religion, the arts, etc.)? If not, please find a few!

2. Who are the country's national heroes and heroines? 3. What is the predominant religion? Is it a state religion? What are its basic beliefs and sacred

writings? 4. Is the price asked for merchandise fixed or are customers expected to bargain? 5. What foods are most popular and how are they prepared? 6. What things are considered taboo in this society? 7. What is the usual dress for men? For women? Are slacks or shorts worn? If so, on what occasions?

Do teenagers wear jeans? 8. What is the attitude toward promptness in this society? 9. How do people greet each other? Shake hands? Embrace or kiss? How do they leave one

another? 10. What are the important holidays? How are each observed? 11. What are the favorite leisure and recreational activities of adults? Of teenagers? What sports are

popular? 12. How are children disciplined at home? 13. In school, are children segregated by race? By caste? By class? By sex?

The following set of questions can be used to help your students learn more about Jamaican culture before the trip. Make this part of the preparation fun: Play Classroom Quiz, Jeopardy, Trivial Pursuit, or other games. Let the students make up skits using the Jamaican English phrases.

Sports and Leisure

**Information for this section was taken from The New Book of Knowledge, Vol. 10, Grolier Incorporated: Danbury, CT, 1981; Johnstone, Patrick, Operation World, Fourth Edition, STL Books: Kent England, 1978 and Operation World, Fifth Edition, Zondervan Publishing House: Grand Rapids, MI, 1993; Jamaica, Land of Wood and Water, supplied by Caribbean Christian Center for the Deaf.

Learning about Jamaica

Favorite spectator sports include cricket, track and field, and soccer (football). Jamaica is also famous for its golf, fishing tournaments and water sports, and, of course, for its Olympic bobsled team. In 2008, the Jamaican track and field team won 11 medals, including 6 gold. You will see children playing with improvised soccer and cricket balls and should join in on the fun when you can!

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How well do you speak English? (The Jamaican version, that is)

Try to match each of the following Jamaican phrases on the left to their English translation on the right.

1. Takeere of the road.

2. Me tart him gown.

3. Tandez till me come.

4. She a mi bess bess fren.

5. Di pickney den a mek too much nize.

6. Mi see tree bwoy up inna you mango tree.

7. Ole still, mi si wan big maskitta pan yu foot.

8. Where you Madda is?

9. Me a come wid me mashait.

10. Kyarri it ya.

11. Let we godeh now.

12. Me head a hat me.

13. Di tree a dem did in a di tree.

14. Him mash up de car.

15. Im jook mi inna mi yeye.

A. I thought hed gone.

B. I saw three boys up in your mango tree.

C. He wrecked the car.

D. Shes my best friend.

E. The children make too much noise!

F. I have a headache.

G. He poked me in the eye.

H. Where is your mother?

I. Take care of the road, beware of it.

J. Carry it here. Bring it here.

K. The three of them were in the tree.

L. Lets go there now.

M. Hold still, I see a big mosquito on your foot.

N. Stay there until I come.

O. I am coming with my machet

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What Do I Need To Do Before I Go to Jamaica? Read this Handbook carefully. It contains information, rules and expectations.

Get proper documents for leaving and returning to the country. For American citizens, a passport is REQUIRED by the United States government for persons traveling to and from a Caribbean nation. If you are a citizen of another country, you need a passport and a visa. Please be sure both are current through the end of July.

Complete both Medical Forms that your group leader will give you: o Get a physical from your doctor o Have both of your parent(s) fill out and sign emergency release, insurance information,

and medical information sections o Read the agreement on SIDE B carefully and sign. When you sign it, you agree to abide

by the rules and expectations (e.g. no drugs, alcohol, smoking, cell phones, personal music systems, etc.)

o Get both copies notarizeddo not make copiesboth must be originals! o Turn in both copies to your leader when completed

Complete the SGO Core Crew application online on our website (ycmhome.org/son-servants/downloads-ss) if interested.

Begin to prepare yourself now. The conditions are much less comfortable than you are used to. It is going to be difficult. Start getting into shape. Walk, jog, or run. Lift weights, do calisthenics. Sleep without air-conditioning as much as possible. Eat peanut butter (just kidding!). The work will be hard. The better shape you are in, the more productive and enjoyable your time will be.

Find out all you can about Jamaica. Read everything you can get your hands on. Scan the newspaper and magazines for articles. Go to the library or check the Internet for information on the country, the people, and the culture.

Participant Section *What We Do *Where We Stay *Daily Schedule *Rules *Packing List *Dress Code *What Not to Bring

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o You will be divided into work groups and assigned to one or more work sites during our time in Jamaica. The work groups will include people from all the different churches. You will be with at least one person from your church, but its really a great way to meet people! Work groups will do things such as building homes for families, working on churches, or visiting residents at the Infirmary (a home for mentally or extremely physically handicapped Jamaicans, or people who have otherwise been abandoned by their families and cannot care for themselves). Each camp will also conduct an outreach for children at a local church or school (see the last page for more details).

o Evening activities will include time to meet with your youth group, meet with the whole group to worship and listen to speakers, as well as a little free time to enjoy one another or reflect alone on the days experience. Time is also set aside in the morning to have a quiet time with the Lord.

Jamaica, Here We Come!

What We Do

So, youre thinkingJamaica, no problem! What images come to your mind? Tropical sunsets, white sand beaches and palm trees swaying in the warm breeze? Well, how about rough, winding roads; tiny shack-like houses; schools and churches without windows, doors, or benches; schools with minimal supplies where children share crayons, paper and desks; people who have few material goods but lots of joy, and much, much more. The Jamaica that you will be experiencing is much different than what the average tourist sees.

Jamaica is also different from America. It looks different. It feels different. The people speak and think differently. The more you know about the country before you arrive, the more quickly you will adjust to the surroundings, and the better you will understand the people and their needs.

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Where We Stay

How Early Do We Have to Get Up?

The following is a typical daily schedule, so you can prepare for the kinds of activities we will have. This is a sample only and will be adjusted to fit our needs in Jamaica.

6:30 Rise and Shine 6:45 Breakfast and get ready for work 7:30 Quiet time 8:15 - 3:30 Work day with lunch break 4:00 6:00 Shower time/ free time 6:00 - 6:45 Dinner 6:30 - 7:15 Counselors meeting (free time for you!) 7:30 - 8:45 Evening meeting 8:45 - 9:45 Family Time 10:30 Lights out

o There will be two separate camps operating simultaneously in the Mandeville area this year. Moorlands Camp and Kendal Camp. We will notify you in the spring with your camp location.

o The conditions will be simple and rustic compared to home, but more than adequate. Most of you will sleep in bunk beds or twin beds.

o Shower and bath facilities will be limited and cold. Be prepared to wait in line and take short, cold showers!

o Meals prepared by the camp staff will be a combination of Jamaican and American cuisine.

o Both camps have a big meeting space where we will worship together each evening.

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How Should I Act in Jamaica? (Otherwise known as RULES)

Because Jamaica is such a different culture, it is important to follow some general rules while on the trip. Remember that you are a visitor to their country. Also remember that the standards of Jamaican Christians are often very different from those who work in the tourist industry. As representatives of your church and Ambassadors for Christ, you need to be willing to adjust to the standards of the Christian culture.

Use or possession of alcohol, drugs and tobacco products is strictly prohibited. The purchase and/or consumption of these items while in Jamaica will lead to disciplinary action at the discretion of your youth leader and the Son Servants staff and could result in your being sent home.

You should not become too familiar with Jamaicans your age. It is okay to be friends, and it is good to share Christ, but you must be very careful not to become too familiar.

You may NOT go anywhere by yourself. When walking in villages, you should always go in two's or three's with an adult or a male in the group.

You should always follow your counselor's and the Son Servants staffs instructions, even when you don't understand them.

Don't make fun of any Jamaican officials or customs. This is very important.

When going through customs, be polite and courteous. This includes American as well as Jamaican customs. If you talk about things like drugs or hijacking in a humorous way, you can be detained and the whole group inconvenienced greatly.

Do not buy things in Jamaica that are not allowed brought back into the United States, such as switchblades. This is a no-no and can jeopardize the whole group's experience. (Other illegal items include anything made of tortoise shell, ivory, or black coral because these items are on the endangered species list.)

When talking to or about Jamaicans, do not use the term "third world country" or "natives". They

are Jamaicans. Avoid getting involved in political discussions.

Do not give things away to people or respond to requests for money without first checking it out with your leader or Son Servants staff. You will have opportunities to donate clothing, money or other items, but we prefer that be done through the local church in order to avoid hard feelings or embarrassment.

When you get frustrated with things like Third World Time, new kinds of food, heat, transportation problems, clothing regulations, just remember that it is not necessarily right or wrong - just different! Flexibility is the name of the game.

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What Should I Bring?

Appropriate dress in Jamaica differs from place to place, and the standards for the Christian Community are different than that of the tourist industry. When you are packing, please remember that you are representing Son Servants, the Christian Community, your church and your family. Modesty is the key guideline. No ragged or torn clothes should be worn. Bathing suits should be one piece OR full coverage tankini- for girls and conservative.

Light-weight, cotton clothes are best for work. Painter's pants and hospital scrubs are recommended; jeans are in general too heavy and hot.

Women need to wear dresses with sleeves or skirts for church and while participating in the children's ministry program. No mini-skirts, no strapless dresses or sundresses (unless you wear a t-shirt under them). Men should wear nice long pants and a shirt to church. Ties are optional.

Shorts are okay for the activities at the camp but should be fingertip length or longer. Shorts or skirts that are either very tight or short are not appropriatecheerleader shorts, Soffe shorts, and anything like them are prohibited.

Don't bring clothing that advertises cigarettes, alcohol products, drugs, rock bands, or displays obscene or suggestive language.

It is best to bring things that are easy to wash, quick to dry and need no ironing. You will probably not be able to do laundry, so bring enough clothes for the eight days.

If you can, bring clothing to wear that you can donate at the end of the trip. (Well ask for a donation to help launder them.)

Don't bring anything that you can't afford to lose.

PLEASE NOTE: ALL PERSONAL ITEMS SHOULD BE MARKED FOR

IDENTIFICATIONBaggage, clothing, linens, everything! We have experienced real problems with look-alike clothing and other items.

Please use a permanent marker to put your name on your things.

Luggage Bring only what you can carry yourself!

ONE medium size suitcase. Do not pack the suitcase so full that you have no room for a little extra.

ONE carry-on bag to fit under airline seat.

Weight limit must not exceed 50 lbs. (per piece).

Check your specific airline for baggage restrictions! Before your group arrives at the airport: Make sure you tag your luggage with the specific color that

corresponds to the camp where you will be staying in Jamaica. Your leader will be able to tell you which color to use and what material to use as a tag (they may even have this taken care of for you)ask your leader for more information closer to your trip.

DDOONN''TT FFOORRGGEETT YYOOUURR PPAASSSSPPOORRTT!!!!

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Packing List __ Tennis shoes __ Work boots or sturdy shoes __ Flip Flops or sandals __ old shoes or waterproof sandals that stay on with straps for Dunn's River Falls __ work socks (several pair) __ lightweight work pants or modest shorts (cut-offs are okay - NO short-shorts, shorts should be fingertip length) __ work shirts (several...NO TANK TOPS for work- girls AND guys) __ work gloves (at least 2 pair suggested) __ swim wear (one piece OR full coverage tankini - modest please!) __ shorts for evenings (no cheerleader shorts, Soffe shorts, etc.!) __ Church clothes (knee length dress with sleeves or skirt for women; nice pants and shirt for men) __ sleep wear (modest) __ towels and washcloths __ single bed sheets and blanket or lightweight sleeping bag (evenings can get cool) __ pillow (optional--bring one if you want one) __ beach towel (older ones dry more easily) __ hat or bandannas __ poncho or rain jacket __ sweatshirt, long-sleeve t-shirt, windbreaker or other light jacket (It gets chilly up there sometimes!)

Other items __ Bible, notebook, pencil, pen __ a travel chair (like a Crazy Creek that fits in a suitcase) is great for sitting on the floor during meetings or

outside for quiet times (optional) __ personal toiletries (toothpaste, toothbrush, soap, shampoo, deodorant, etc.) __ Medication you take regularly. A double supply in separate bags is recommended. __ flashlight and batteries (bring extra batteries) __ water bottle a must-have __ alarm clock (optional) __ sunglasses __ sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher -- the sun is intense!) __ bug spray or lotion __ extra pair of glasses or contact lenses, and extra contact lens case __ small Kleenex packages and/or Wet Ones __ plastic bags (all sizes - for shoes, dirty or wet clothes...) __ 1 plastic jar of peanut butter and 1 plastic, squeezable container of jelly (we will collect these and use for

lunches on the work sites) __ 2 rolls of toilet paper (we collect these for bathrooms!) __ camera (optional) __ one box crayons (16 or 24 count) __ one pair child's scissors __ one small bottle glue

These will be for the childrens program

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What Should I Leave at Home?

o CELL PHONES, electric razors, hair dryers, curlers, and personal music and entertainment systems (CD players, iPods, mp3 players, portable DVD players, etc.).

o Prohibited Substances: Tobacco, alcoholic beverages, and other drugs (strictly prohibited!!) o Expensive items (jewelry, clothing, personal music and entertainment systems, etc). A good rule is

dont bring anything you cant easily replace or afford to lose. o Clothing that advertises alcohol, tobacco products, drugs, or displays obscene or suggestive language

or images. o A bad attitude and any expectations that you are going on vacation to relax and visit a new place

you are going to experience a different culture and a break from your everyday routines, but you are coming to serve others and to be a messenger of Christs love by the work you dohence, you are a Son Servant!

Optional Items If you have extra room in your baggage, you can bring some of the following items to donate to Jamaican churches or schools. We will leave these items with the church or school leadership to distribute to needy people.

o Balloons, stickers, hard candy, toys and other fun things for children. o School supplies (pens, pencils, paper, chalk, craft supplies, glue, etc.) o Sporting Goods: Frisbees, soccer balls, volleyballs, whiffle balls and bats and other recreational items. o New or used clothing (in good condition)

Money Each participant should bring some spending money. We suggest at least $100, but no more than $200. This money can be spent in the following ways:

o Meals while traveling to and from Jamaica o One meal while on our Tourist day o Snacks at the camp "tuck shop" - open daily o Souvenirs for your folks and friends! o An offering which will go toward continued work in Jamaica

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Important Dress Code Reminders

As we serve the Lord on the mission field, we must remember that we are an example to both the believers and the non-believers with whom we come into contact. In addition, we want to remove some of the things that distract us back home so that we can better focus on the purpose of the trip serving others and listening for what God might want to teach us. For this reason we have tried to keep modesty in mind and have developed a dress code which stands for ALL participants on ALL of our trips. Additionally, some of the organizations we will be working with have specific requirements for dress for safety reasons.

General Dress Code for all Son Servants Camps

o No tank tops In an effort to eliminate past confusion about when and what tank tops

were and were not appropriate. We ask that EVERYONE wear shirts with sleeves at all

times.

o Swimsuits- girls- 1-piece or FULL coverage tankinis (please wear modest swimsuits)

o No Soffee shorts, cheerleader shorts, or any other short-shorts all shorts must be

finger-tip length. (When you hold your arms at your side, the bottom of your shorts must

meet your fingertips.) If your shorts arent long enough you will be asked to change.

o If you will be attending church during your trip:

Females are not to wear sleeveless dresses to church. A t-shirt must be worn under all

dresses without sleeves. Skirts must be at least knee-length.

Males need to wear pants (not shorts) to church.

o Females participating in the SGO program are expected to wear skirts or dresses.

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SGO? What Kind of Crazy Name is That?

SGO *What Is SGO? *How Do I Sign-Up?

In Matthew 28:19 Jesus says, Lets go (or SGO for short) into all the world and make disciples of the nations . . . Well, really it says, Go ye into all the world. By participating in a Son Servants trip, you are responding to the call of Christ to share His message with the world. Part of how we do that is through the Summers Greatest Outreach (SGO - get it?). Each camp will host a separate program at a school or church near the camp.

The SGO program will last for four days, and every Son Servant will have the opportunity to be involved if they so desire. In order to make the program run efficiently, however, we need a core crew of about ten people willing to devote the majority of their time in on this trip to the childrens outreach (and some time before the trip in planning and preparation). This is a commitment for the duration of the program. You will also have a chance to join the construction work for a short time at some point in the week.

QUALIFICATIONS: Love children and have experience in childrens ministry Be willing to be a student leader by heading up a class teaching team Be willing to devote time in preparation prior to the trip

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How Do I Sign Up?

1. Talk with your parents and youth director/group leader about your participation with SGO. Make sure you get your youth directors email addressyoull need it for the application!

2. Once theyve said YES! then go to our website to fill out the SGO Core Crew Application: ycmhome.org/son-servants/downloads-ss

3. Find the SGO Core Crew Application 4. Fill it out completely and enter all requested informationthis is where youll enter

your youth directors email address 5. When youre finished filling everything out, press Submit 6. Youve applied to be on the SGO Core Crew!

If you have questions, please feel free to call the Son Servants office at 423.624.2495 or email Laura Mohead Hertgers at laura@ycmhome.org. or talk to your youth leader!

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Parent Section *Additional information

What about Safety? Son Servants is committed to providing a good, safe mission experience for all who participate. However, in any such experience there are some risks. These include, but are not limited to, transportation related accidents, work site accidents, and sickness. We do our best to prevent hazardous situations and train the participants, as well as our staff, to be safety conscious. It is also the responsibility of the participants to act responsibly in all situations.

Emergency Contact You will be provided with emergency phone numbers closer to the time of the trip. These numbers will be for emergencies only. Please do not expect or require your child to call home, as this may not be possible. Son Servants suggests that you arrange a phone hotline so your leader can make one call and let everyone know how things are going. If you are unable to reach anyone at the number, you can call the YCM Office at (423) 624-2495 and ask for Del. Dels cell phone number is (423) 400-9331.

Mail We will provide you with a mailing address closer to the time of the trip when we have assigned your church to its camp. Mail should be sent at least three weeks before the trip to insure that it arrives during our stay.

Medical Facilities We have our own doctor or nurse and a well-equipped medical chest for use in case of injury or illness. For emergencies, there is a hospital near where we are staying.

Prayer Requests o For the country of Jamaica - its leaders, government, and people as a whole o For the church in Jamaica - members, leadership, missionaries o For the work of Son Servants:

a) safety

b) able to accomplish what we set out to do

c) growth in the lives of participants o For families and churches at homethat they will be prepared to welcome back changed people.