ASP Tri-Cities: Frequently Asked Questions
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Who can participate?

Anyone age 14 or older can volunteer, but at least two adults must volunteer with each work crew of 4-7 volunteers.  No construction experience is required; our staff will teach you all you need to know.  If you have construction expertise, we will match you to a more challenging project.

When can we serve?

Day Work Teams can serve from September- May, and Week Long Work Teams serve in the summer. Our work day begins at 9 a.m., and ends around 4:30 p.m.

What kinds of projects will we work on?

Volunteers work on a variety of projects, including strengthening foundations, patching leaks, fixing roofs, building walls, repairing stairs, digging flood channels, installing plumbing, and painting exteriors.  No matter how much building experience you have, we will match your group’s project to your skills.

What’s a workcrew?

Each group will divide into workcrews of 7 people. One workcrew will be assigned to each site. Extra people in a group can form a smaller crew, but it must contain at least 4 people.

Who provides direction out in the field?

Our highly-trained staff provide guidance and construction expertise at work sites.

Will we be safe?

Yes.  Minor injuries can occur, as they can on any outdoor activity.  Our staff are trained to emphasize safety and are trained in first aid in the event that it is needed.  In addition, we attempt to match project requirements with the skill level of the group.

What about lunch?

You will need to bring a bag lunch and water for each volunteer to eat at the work site. This is one of the most important and influential activities in the ASP experience. During lunch, volunteers have time to fellowship with one another and get to know the family they are serving.

What’s the registration deadline?

Volunteer work dates must be scheduled a minimum of 3 weeks in advance.

How much does it cost?

Day Work Teams: ASP requests a donation from each day group that serves with our Tri-Cities program. Suggested donation is $10 per volunteer.  

Week Long Work Teams: 
For week long summer teams the fee is $250 per workcrew (group of 7).  A $125 deposit (non-refundable) is due 2 weeks before your scheduled work days, and the other half can be paid on your first day.

What does our donation or fee pay for?

ASP Tri-Cities is a totally turn-key volunteer experience. We take care of all the details, leaving you free to immerse yourself in the experience and bond with your group. Your generous donations and fees go toward:

  • Construction materials, tools, and project supplies, and delivery to worksites
  • Project selection and screening, and matching to group skill level
  • Highly trained staff to supervise construction
  • Morning devotion
  • Operating costs for our outreach

What should we bring?

Most everything you need to serve with ASP Tri-Cities will be provided: tools, materials, instruction, direction, and supervision by ASP’s knowledgeable staff.  You will need to bring:

  • 2 copies per volunteer of signed and notarized medical and release forms, which we will also send in an information packet when you register. All volunteers under age 18 must have forms signed by a legal guardian to participate.
  • Covenant sheet, signed by all participating volunteers (included in your Registration Packet).
  • Small hand tools such as tape measures, hammers, gloves, and safety glasses if you prefer to bring your own.
  • Weather appropriate clothes, including long pants, shirts with sleeves, and closed-toe shoes.
  • Water and a bag lunch.  Lunchtime is an excellent opportunity to visit with the family your group is serving, so please plan to eat lunch at the site with us.
  • First aid kit and any necessary individual medications.

What is the role of religion at ASP?

ASP was founded by a United Methodist minister and is a Christian organization. As a Christian ministry committed to “faith in action,” we believe it is important to start and end the day by gathering to give thanks to God.

What if we’re not a faith-based group?

ASP is open to all people. This means that no matter where you come from, no matter what organization, school, or business you belong to, you will always find open arms at ASP. Our staff is committed to helping you create a meaningful experience that’s just right for you, so please let us know your needs. Our morning devotion time can focus on team building, regional poverty, or another topic of your choice, rather than on faith.

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