As Hurricane Recovery progresses on the Gulf Coast, volunteers continue to be the cornerstone of rebuilding efforts. With the progress to date the type of work being completed has changed from less demolition & gutting to more rebuilding and finishing. This change has not decreased the need for volunteers but has created a greater need for skilled labor and craftsman to lead each volunteer work crew. However, all skill levels are still needed and anyone interested is encouraged to volunteer. St. Peter’s will help individuals and groups with planning a mission trip to provide the best possible experience as you give of yourself to Hurricane Katrina Recovery efforts. There are opportunities to meet residents, other volunteers, be a valued part of an organized volunteer effort, viewing the scope of destruction and need, visit area landmarks, historic sites, and various neighborhoods unique to New Orleans. It will be an IMMERSION.

Through 2007 St. Peter’s Loganville has assisted directly and indirectly with 4 volunteer mission trips to the Gulf Coast. For 2008 St. Peter’s is currently working with 2 congregations helping them organize their own mission trips or efforts. This spring of 2008, St. Peter’s is planning a 9-day mission trip to New Orleans L.A. The St. Peter’s Mission is scheduled to leave Loganville (post-Easter) to NOLA on Saturday March 30 – returning Sunday April 6, 2008. St. Peter’s is extending an open invitation to the community at large (both members & non-members), Lutherans & any others to travel to the Gulf Coast to assist with volunteer Hurricane Katrina rebuilding efforts.

Costs for the St. Peter’s trip are expected to be $225.00 per person. A non-refundable sign-up fee of $75 will be collected, with the balance, $150 due 4 weeks prior to departure. Necessary forms & releases required by the campsite are also due - 2 weeks prior to departure. Meals, snacks & souvenirs during travel {one-way = 1100 miles, 18-travel-hours} are your responsibility, as well as other “off-site” expenses. Unused receipts will be added to our St. Peter’s Gulf Mission Account.

Individuals concerned about the $225 fee should,
#1. Find a sponsor to help with your expense. and/or
#2. Apply by letter to St. Peter’s, Loganville, for up to a 50% (½ price) sponsorship
($112.50 less your $75 sign-up fee and balance of $37.50)
#3. Contact Pastor Chris Miller for individual or group / family assistance
#4. St. Peter’s members (& previous ‘trippers’) are eligible for even more assistance.

When you sign up you will need to complete a skill level sheet & indicate your task preference/s (landscaping, dry-wall, carpentry, masonry, nursing or visitation, in-camp duties – cooking, clean-up, go-fer, etc). Vehicles and skilled labor will be a necessary part of this mission trip. In the event of a large group, a trailer may be needed and used to transport “trippers” baggage and tools.