Lesson 2 Trip Logistics

Logistics issues Documentation Travel arrangements –Air travel to and from –Transportation within host country –Luggage Legal/insurance Financial responsibilities

Legal/Insurance Issues Valid passports—plan well ahead Will visas be necessary? Review immigration and customs process Consider trip insurance to cover any cancellations Overseas medical insurance? Permission slips from parents when minors are leaving the country Signed liability releases with local church

Scheduling and Transportation Use a reliable travel agency that has experience with international travel to the Majority World Inquire with air carrier about any special items being shipped—medical supplies, equipment, etc Rely on the advice of host receiver with regard to travel planning

On-field logistics Your host receiver will generally be responsible for arranging in-country transportation and lodging Having someone on-site is invaluable for ensuring necessary arrangements Project site logistics will typically be arranged by the host receiver

On-Field Project considerations Consider how to involve local people in the project—broad-based participation Focus on felt needs of the receiving community Respect the wisdom of the receiving community Always buy any supplies locally to help economy Goal is not to displace local workers who need jobs and income Working with locals can be a very effective way to build relationships and lay foundation for long-term partnerships

Building for Eternity: Some Thoughts on Construction Must recognize the differences in cultures –Materials sometimes not available –Materials do not arrive on time or at all –Materials not of the quality you want Must keep the focus on the purpose and the people and not the project itself Must understand the local customs, methods Must respect the local wisdom It is critical to BE FLEXIBLE

Being Flexible Allow for changes in your plan Uncertainties: –Weather –May not be able to transport materials –Materials may not be available that day –Electricity may not be on that day –There may be no water Go with the flow

Key Principle: Construction Projects Do not be too prepared!

Key Requirements Need to have someone on the ground in whom you have confidence and already there before the arrival of the team Need to try to have the materials on-site before team arrival if possible Will likely need to get money to someone beforehand Gather as much information as possible—what kinds of tools are already available, how many tools will you need, etc.

Key Requirements (cont) Ideal is to have a national foreman on-site Engage as many local people as possible in the project—ownership Team should consider not trying to finish every little thing—allow the local people to finish the job Be prepared to be patient—the project will typically take more time than you imagine Sometimes, need to send a couple of people to the project site beforehand

Medical Missions The doctor who goes may be the only doctor people will ever see Great opportunity to address the physical and spiritual needs of the whole person Majority of people have generic problems— infections, bronchitis, pain Many people come out of curiosity—great opportunity to witness Not always easy for doctors to practice in another country—but can advise, coach

What makes a successful medical missions trip Many opportunities for virtually anyone—do not necessarily need medical skills Only need a heart to serve Nurses bring a wide array of gifts Integrate prayer into the outreach—be holistic

What makes a successful medical missions trip Teams can be structured depending on skills— education, personal hygiene, veterinarian, physical therapy, chiropractic medicine, etc. Being flexible is critical—space, water, electricity, light, communication Can leave behind supplies and equipment Coordinate with the local church—needs, follow up Present the gospel after actually seeing patients

Dangers in Medical Missions Actually misdiagnosing a problem—e.g. lack of familiarity with tropical diseases Actually harming someone Can reflect badly on the ministry of the local missionary Can cause problems for access by future teams Patients do not understand—communication issues Reality: cannot meet all the physical needs, cannot see all those who want to be seen

Practical Travel Tips Plan to use only cash but inquire about credit cards (and take only one?). Take only what you need. Use a money belt or something similar Team leader should collect all passports & individuals should carry a copy with them always Take and be willing to share photos of your family with the receiving people Take prescription medicines in original containers

Practical Travel Tips (cont) Someone on the team should take a small sewing kit Pack some snack food Do not take electronic gadgets—displaying your wealth to those who have much less In packing, take only what you need Pack lightly—take minimum luggage and clothing necessary (but appropriate) with space to bring back any gifts and souvenirs

Practical Travel Tips (cont) Pack some re-sealable plastic bags—different sizes Take a musical instrument if possible Inquire if your host would like you to bring anything from the U.S. Remember that voltage may be different and also the possible need for adaptors Take soap, a washcloth, and alarm clock Have all travelers use a brightly colored yarn on their luggage

Vacation time??? Consider the cultural value of taking some time to see and experience the country Best at the end of the trip Good time to relax and de-brief Can enrich the overall STM experience