"It is amazing to see that you're a part of a huge plan to share the love of Jesus with precious children around the world. When you walk into the warehouse and see all the shoe boxes, you realize that you're a part of something larger than life." —Volunteer, Snellville, Georgia

Thousands of volunteers have had similar reactions to working in processing centers across the country. The Lord's faithfulness and abundance is visibly evident as thousands of shoe box gifts flood each processing center. Every single gift that is collected must be carefully inspected and prepared for overseas shipment during the months of November and December. Over 65,000 volunteers play a vital role in creating a heart warming and potentially life-changing experience for a needy child overseas.

SCHEDULE YOUR VISIT

Processing center registration begins the first Monday of August — August 6 — and spaces go quickly. To make your reservation, call a volunteer scheduler at 800-442-9120 on Monday, August 6 at 8 a.m. EST.

Volunteering at a processing center is a great activity for individuals or groups. Many groups consider this hands-on activity as an in-country missions project that allows them to impact children overseas. In fact, as many as 28 different states have been represented by volunteers in the Charlotte Processing Center in a given year. (Please keep in mind that you must be at least 13 years old to volunteer.)

PLANNING A MISSION TRIP TO THE PROCESSING CENTER

Serving at a processing center with a large group is a great bonding experience and can be a wonderful time of spiritual growth and renewal. Reservations can be made to ensure that your group serves together.

How do you get started? You can begin planning now! Consider these questions as a starting point as you plan your mission trip:

• Who will go on the trip?
• How can I promote this trip to my church or group?
• To which processing center will we go?
• How will we get there? Rent a tour bus? Carpool?
• What type of activities can I plan for our trip to and from the processing center?
• How long is our mission trip? One day? One week?
• How much time will we spend in the processing center versus visiting local attractions?
• Where will we stay?
• What type of spiritual component should we have? Daily devotions? Journaling? Can we visit a church in the area?
• How will expenses be handled?

Remember to make your reservations early. The regional staff in processing center locations may be able to help you with additional questions and information.