Urban Appalachia Program

A New Way to Serve

Since 1969, ASP has welcomed volunteers in Central Appalachia to repair homes and build relationships, most commonly in rural and remote areas across the region. Starting in 2027, ASP is piloting a new summer program that seeks to grow our impact beyond our traditional rural footprint: the Urban Appalachia Program.

ASP’s Urban Appalachia Program is a mirror of our traditional Summer Program — still cultivating the experience of ASP’s mission, community, and evening programming, just in the city! Looking to build upon ASP’s long-standing relationships in Charleston, WV, ASP is adding Knoxville, TN to the inaugural list of urban Appalachian cities we serve. ASP is committed to our mission of eradicating substandard housing in Appalachia, whether it be found in small towns or larger cities.

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Types of Projects

ASP projects cover a wide range of construction skill sets, so we can find something for your group regardless of experience. We'll pair your crew with a project that fits your needs and comfort level.

Roofing – Replacing and repairing roofs can lead to significant improvements, mitigating damage caused by leaks.
Drywall – Drywall projects can be ceiling repair, wall repair, or part of a room addition.
Siding – Repairing existing siding or installing new siding weatherizes a home from the elements, making it more efficient and reducing utility costs for homeowners.
Floors and Foundations – Ensuring floors are sturdy makes homes safer, giving families the ability to make better use of their space.
Porches and Ramps – Building and restoring porches and ramps make homes accessible for residents for both daily and emergency use.

Trip Locations

Charleston, WV
Knoxville, TN

Summer center assignments are finalized and communicated by mid-April.

Current Locations

Participant Requirements

Minimum group size is one work crew (5-7 individuals)
While our summer groups are predominantly youth groups, all adult and college groups are welcome during these weeks as well
All volunteers must have completed 6th grade and be 11 years old and up
Each work crew needs at least 2 adults 19+
All adults must have a completed background check
Groups must provide their own transportation. Each work crew needs their own vehicle.
ASP believes that each person is a child of God, imbued with dignity and worth. All are welcome to respectfully and peacefully participate with ASP, regardless of race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status.

Mission Trip Dates

Week 1 – June 13-19, 2027
Week 2 – June 20-26, 2027
Week 3 – June 27-July 3, 2027
Week 4 – July 4-10, 2027
Week 5 – July 11-17, 2027
Week 6 – July 18-24, 2027
Week 7 – July 25-31, 2027

Fall, winter, and spring trips are available through our Year-Round Program

Participant Cost

$375 per volunteer per week

Mission fees include:

Lodging
Hot breakfast & dinner
Supplies to pack lunches for worksites
Building materials
Staff oversight and guidance
Regional education
Faith based programming
Life-transforming experience!

Learn more about ASP's partial scholarships here.

Why Choose Urban Appalachia Program

Give your volunteers an alternative to ASP’s traditional rural service trip that offers more engagement with the diversity of experiences, cultures, and communities that often characterize urban settings.
Be a part of ASP’s work to expand homeowner’s access to life-changing resources in underserved communities.
Advance ASP’s mission to make homes warmer, safer, and drier in rural and urban areas across Central Appalachia.
Discover the rich history of Appalachia and its people that transcends monolithic stereotypes and narratives.
Be transformed by the deep connections, hard work, spiritual growth, and lifelong memories that mark every ASP trip.

Warmer. Safer. Drier.®

Relationship Ministry

Transformation

Who is ASP?

Warmer. Safer. Drier.®

ASP volunteers provide high quality home repair for Appalachian families

Relationship Ministry

ASP volunteers and families develop life-long relationships

Transformation

Everyone who comes into contact with this ministry is transformed

Learn more about ASP here →

Connect with our Team

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“Sharing our time volunteering at ASP were some of the most rewarding events/years we’ve ever done. The joy you get working with the families, kids and ASP team members is epic! It’s something you will never forget!”
Char WellsAdult Volunteer

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“Words can't describe the experience I had this week. The fact that our group was able to touch the lives of so many families in Kentucky is amazing. This week I discovered the true meaning of joy through 4 year old Christian at my worksite. I experienced love in action and I am so blessed to have been a part of this trip.”
Kat ArenaHigh School Volunteer

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“They are a blessing. Wonderful people , with such love. i will never forget them or forget what they've done for me. God bless each and every person involved in ASP. I know they make Him proud and He is smiling at them. Thank you!”
Della IsaacsHomeowner

Trip Coordinators

Thinking about leading a group? Find out what it takes to plan and execute a trip with ASP and see all the resources available to help!

Group Members

Have a group already registered? Join the trip and learn more about serving with ASP.

Registration Help

Trip Coordinators

Thinking about leading a group? Find out what it takes to plan and execute a trip with ASP and see all the resources available to help!

Learn More

Group Members

Have a group already registered? Join the trip and learn more about serving ASP.

Learn More

Registration Help

Learn More