Amor Ministries is providing a one day trip option and a three day trip option for individuals and small groups who want to build casas in Baja. These options occur on four specific weekends, July through October 2009. The X Project is being offered as a special opportunity for individuals to display eXtreme commitment by building a home for a family in Tijuana. Commitments have been made by Amor Ministries – commitments to reach people with the love of Christ, commitments to build homes, commitments to keep families together. All these commitments build hope by loving our neighbors. Now Amor needs our commitment to take on the eXtreme challenge to help build new, safe and secure homes for these families.

QUICK DETAILS

• 1 and 3 day options
• two weekends to choose from - July 10-12 or September 4-6
• $100 for one day option
• $375 for three day option
• register at www.amor.org and click on "X Project"
• registration must be completed 21 days prior to your trip

FAQs

Q? What has changed?

A: The swine flu epidemic has abated.  The Center for Disease Control has lifted the warning for non-essential travel to Mexico.

Q? Does the need for casas still exist?

A: More than ever before!  In 2009, more than 500 families have been delayed in receiving the gift of a new home due to security and disease concerns.  Amor has committed casas for these families.  The swine flu epidemic caused much of the committed casa construction to be deferred.  There is a backlog of committed casas that need to be built for the waiting families.  But, now, something can be done – “X Project”.

Q? What is our plan?

A: We plan to mobilize as many members and friends of our congregation to build Amor casas with the families in need.  We have chosen the weekends of July 10-12 and September 4-6.  We could conceivably build 10-20 casas during these two weekends.

Q? Is this like trips we have done on Memorial Day Weekend in past years?

A. No.  This is an Amor Ministries organized trip.  Much of the trip logistics have changed.  However, the end results, a casa for a family in need in Baja, and a big smile on the heart of God, remain the same.

Q? Who is our Amor contact person?

A: Our Amor contact person is Andrea Imel, aimel@amor.org, or 619-662-1200 x 135.

Q? How do we register for the Amor X Project?

A: Go to www.amor.org and then click on the “X Project.”  All the registration instructions and forms are provided on their web site.  Participants will have to copy and then submit, by mail, a Mission Trip Participation Form, a Medical Release Form and a Volunteer Background Authorization.  Please note “SBPC” on your registration form.

Q? When do I have to register?

A. Registrations must be completed and received by Amor 21 days prior to the trip.  Registrations for the July 10-12 trip have to be received by Friday, June 19th.  Registrations for the September 4-6 trip have to be received by August 14th.

Q? Can children participate?

A: Yes, children of all ages can participate.  However, all children under 16 must be accompanied by his/her parent.

Q? What if we have a Small Group that wants to register to build a casa?

A: At the time of registration, please indicate the names of the people in your group that you would like to build and camp together with.  Amor may add other participants to your build team if required.

Q? Are passports required after June 1, 2009?

A: Yes. Go to www.dhs.gov for all your options.

Q? What will Amor Ministries provide?

A: Amor Ministries will provide:
• A cement slab, a first aid kit, construction manuals and all the tools required.
• All the building materials required.
• Food, water and tenting facilities.
• A Mission Trip Leader
• A Construction Foreman
• Transportation, from the border, to and from the site.

Q? Do we need a Mission trip Leader?

A: No!  Amor Team Members will act as the Mission Trip Leader.

Q? Do we need a construction foreman?

A: Not necessarily. If you have a trained, Amor experienced, foreman in your group, please advise Amor Ministries.  If you do not have an experienced foreman, Amor will provide the resources.

Q? What should I bring for the one day trip option?

A: You must be able to carry everything you bring when you walk across the border to the Amor provided buses.
• A day pack with a water bottle.  Water will be provided at the build site.
• Sunscreen, a hat, and work gloves.
• Wear casa build clothing.  No shorts or open toed shoes.
• Personal tools if you desire.  Amor will be providing tool kits.
• Snacks and other convenience items (e.g. camera).
• Lunch and dinner will be provided by Amor.  Eat a breakfast prior to the trip.

Q? What should I bring for the three day trip option?

A: All of the same identified above.  In addition, you will need a sleeping bag, a change of clothing, and a solar shower if you so desire. You must be able to carry everything you bring across the border in one trip if you are using Amor transportation.

Q? If we cannot participate on the July through October dates designated by Amor, are other X Project dates an option?

A. The X Project is a one-time only project. Our church will be going and serving in community on the weekends in July and September.  However, Amor has two other weekends available in August and October. If you are unable to go in July and/or September when SBPC goes, you can participate, as an individual, on the weekends in August and October.

Q? What are the transportation logistics?

A: For the one day trip, you will be responsible to get yourself to the US side of the Otay Mesa border crossing at 7:00 AM.  An exact location will be announced soon.  You will walk across the border.  Amor buses will take you to the job site and take you back to the border in the evening.

For the three day trip, you will meet at 7:00 AM at Amor Ministries and receive further instructions at that time. If you are not driving yourself on the trip, please find a ride to the office.  Parking is extremely limited and not guaranteed.  If you would prefer to drive your own vehicle into Mexico, see next question for more information.

Q? Can I drive my vehicle into Mexico?

A: For the one day trip, this is not an option. All participants will meet at 7:00 AM, park at Otay Mesa, and walk across the border to the waiting Amor buses.

For the three day trip option, this is encouraged.  Your Amor contact will advise you on this matter.  If you take your vehicle into Mexico, you will be required to purchase Mexican insurance for your vehicle (www.bajabound.com).  All private vehicles entering Mexico will be escorted by Amor Ministry personnel. Vehicles will be parked in camp for the duration of the trip.

Q? What about food, beverages and tenting?

A: Amor (and Camping Pros) will provide all the food, water and tenting facilities required for all participants.

Q? How much does the mission trip cost?

A: The one day trip costs $100.00 per person. The three day trip costs $375.00 per person.  A 50% deposit is required at the time of registration. These registration fees are payable directly to Amor Ministries.

Q? Are there scholarships available for those that cannot afford to pay the full registration costs?

A: No. Participants have the option of a one day trip at a cost of $100 and a three day trip at a cost of $375.