Ghana Mission

The Ghana mission is about changing lives. 

Click here to view flyer about the 2010 mission trips, scheduled for September 10-25, 2010>>

2010 Trips

Dates Leader
September 3 – 15, 2010

Marlene Jones, Skyviewmdt@aol.com
Newman Memorial UMC 718-622-7955

September 15 – 25, 2010 Jay Hockenberry, jayho@charter.net
Woodbury UMC, 203-262-6664
September 25 – Oct. 5, 2010 Marion Hubbard, marion924@aol.com
Gaylordsville UMC, 860-355-0553

 Please click here to download a .pdf file with information about our Mission work in Ghana>>

Education facilities
We are committed to help transform the lives of impoverished children, and under-privileged youth, through education. Believing that education is the best tool for alleviating poverty and the effect of poverty on individuals and an entire communities we are providing education facilities and resources in Awombrew village of Ghana.
The new cottage industry
Pen and Key Chain Turning. 
Nana Jay Hockenberry believed that with just a little training and with the right tools young people of the village of Awombrew will be able produce pens and key chains using native Ghana wood.  The dream became a reality in November 2008 when 20 new pens were beautifully crafted by young people of Awombrew.
Healthcare facilities
Yipala and its surrounding villages always experience the occurrence of preventable diseases such as cerebro-spinal meningitis, measles, and diarrhoea among others. The Northern Region has a much higher diarrhoea prevalence rate at 31% compared to the national average of 18%. Most of the children under five years suffer from malnutrition, which has negative impact in the growth and development process of these children. The incidence of malaria is also high in these villages. With these and many other factors we have built a clinic hoping to furnish and equip it with medical resources.
Volunteers say:
This VIM Ghana trip has changed the way I feel about suffering and poverty. I can no longer bemoan what I lack having seen how joyful people with very little can be. 
I believe I will think globally before I purchase more things or place extra food on my plate that is more than I need to maintain my health.
- Pastor Tom
 
Every time you experience a new culture and you are exposed to a different way of life, it helps you re-evaluate the way you prioritize your own life. Personally, I learned that we take our physical possessions and desires too seriously and the only way to appreciate what’s really important is to let go of your physical desires. Fellowship and meditation are the only way to feel the soul.
- Sarah (18yrs)
 
 The local villagers in Awomberew were the friendliest and most welcoming group of people in spite of their conditions. Regardless of their possessions or lack of, they were eager to share their games and songs, and life goes on. I know I left a part of my heart and soul here, so this is not good-bye because there is much to accomplish here.
- Shirley (Adult)