Each time a new short-term missions group is headed our way, the campus begins to buzz with a different kind of energy. Vans pull up. Luggage rolls across paving stones. Smiles, handshakes, and eager eyes signal the arrival of short-term mission teams. We eagerly anticipate the groups of individuals from churches, schools, and communities who have felt the call to come and serve.

At New Life Advance International, short-term teams are more than just volunteers. They are partners in ministry — an extension of the work being done every day to transform lives in the name of Jesus. From painting classrooms and repairing roofs to planting flowers and playing soccer with the children, every task becomes an act of service and an opportunity to show God’s love in action.

Each team works closely with Dorothy Kennedy, our short-term missions coordinator, to ensure their trip is meaningful and well-matched. Before arriving, groups walk through a team covenant that sets expectations and explains why we invite teams into this sacred space. Kenny Kennedy, our on-the-ground project manager, maintains an ongoing list of facility needs and ministry projects, including tasks that are crucial to our mission, and well-suited for the unique gifts and skillsets of each team.

Before arrival, team members fill out a skill sheet so we can place them where they'll have the most impact—whether it's landscaping the campus, repairing broken fixtures, or helping lead Bible activities with the children.

But perhaps the most powerful impact these teams have is relational.

A majority of the children in our home come from backgrounds of trauma and loss. Building deep connections with caregivers can take time. Often, the presence of a short-term team member—someone new, safe, and caring—can open the door to healing in ways we never expected. We’ve seen children who were previously closed off begin to laugh, play, and engage in spiritual life activities simply because someone showed up for them, consistently, during that week.

It’s no surprise, then, that many child sponsorships are born from these trips. A team member who spends time getting to know a child often returns home with a desire to keep pouring into their life. And right now, we are in great need of more child sponsors. If you’ve been on a team, or are thinking about joining one, we encourage you to consider how you might continue that connection beyond your time here.

We also offer a custom internship program for individuals seeking a longer-term experience. Interns begin with a minimum of two weeks of language school in Antigua, a safe and culturally rich city, before joining our team in Guatemala. Each internship is uniquely crafted to match a person’s gifts and interests—from education to construction, discipleship to daily operations. It’s a chance to go deeper, stay longer, and serve in a lasting way.

Whether you come for a week or a season, we believe God uses every willing heart to build something eternal. Thank you for being a part of the story.

Kendon Wheeler

NLAI President