Frankenmuth United Methodist Church   "Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors" Sunday Worship: 8:30 am & 10:45 am

ASP

FUMC is proud to have sent many volunteers over the years to participate in the Appalachia Service Project (ASP).  Not sure what ASP is all about? 

Following is a brief description from the asphome.org website. 

 Appalachia Service Project (ASP) is a Christian ministry, open to all people, that fosters human development by addressing the housing needs of Central Appalachia.  Each year about 15,000 volunteers repair homes for 400-500 low-income families in rural areas of Central Appalachia. The goal is to make homes warmer, safer and drier for families in need, while offering transformational experiences for families, volunteers and staff alike.
 
The home repairs made can take place from the ground up to the roof, and everywhere in-between. Typical repairs include: repairing roofs, building room additions, providing wheelchair ramps, installing or repairing plumbing, updating unsafe wiring, securing foundations, digging drainage ditches, constructing porches and steps, installing insulation and siding, and weatherizing homes. We even provide first-time electricity and indoor plumbing for multiple families each year.

The majority of our volunteers are high school aged youth (14 years+) who perform most of the repairs themselves under the watchful eyes and guidance of adult leaders during our summer program. The remainder of our volunteers are mostly young adult and adult volunteers participating in our non-summer program. It is truly amazing what their willing hearts and hands can accomplish. Since 1969, more than 12,500 homes have been repaired with the assistance of over 240,000 volunteers.

But ASP is more than just a home repair program. Through this process of service many lives are changed: those of the families being served, the volunteers serving, and the staff facilitating the process. Often the experience serves to enlighten everyone that the differences between us are only perceived—deep down we all want to be loved, to belong, to own something, and to create something worthwhile—no matter where we live, our economic status, education, or ethnic identity. No one walks away from the ASP experience unchanged—not families served, volunteers, or staff.
 
No matter what your skill level, we invite you to come experience Appalachia Service Project for yourself.

2008

Sunday July 20th, seven adults and fifteen youth from our church traveled to Salyersville, Kentucky for an Applacachia Service Project.  The group returned to Frankenmuth on Saturday, July 26th.  The trip cost approximately $8,000.  Each volunteer paid $150 and the balance was made up through fundraisers and donations.  2008 marked the 10th anniversary of ASP participation by our church.

Click here for 2008 trip photos (under construction!)

2007
 

A sneak peak at some of the fundraising that took place to raise money for the 2007 trip to Kentucky.  On Saturday,  February 3rd, the day before the Super Bowl, our ASP team got together for a "we make it, you bake it" pizza making party.  What a great idea! 

What was next?  The youth hosted a Spaghetti Lunch/Dinner on March 18th, following the 10:45 am worship service.  What a great opportunity to dine with family and friends.  The meal included spaghetti, garlic toast, salad and dessert all for the great price of $6.00 per person, $10.00 per couple, or $20.00 for a family of four or more!  

The 2007 trip is complete, but if you would like more information about this terrific mission opportunity, please contact our church office.  Telephone number and email link are listed below. 

Click here to see photos of the 2007 trip.