Register for mission trip

Thank you for your desire to be part of this mission team and for your willingness to serve others and God.

Registering for the mission trip involves a few simple steps to help us plan well and ensure a safe, organized experience for everyone. Please review and complete each step below to finalize your registration. To help us plan responsibly, the deadline to register is April 15, 2026.

If you have any questions, please contact the Mission Trip Leaders:
Pastor Chris, Associate Pastor chris@westlawnumc.org
Trisha, Youth Pastor trisha@westlawnumc.org
How to register:
1. Complete the Mission Trip Registration Form
2. Review the Mission Trip Tiered Pricing and Pay Registration
3. For adults (18 years and older), submit your Required Clearances

Mission Trip Registration Form

Participant Information

Adult Completing This Form

Youth participants are not permitted to complete this form themselves. A parent or legal guardian must complete and submit this form on their behalf. 

Youth Participation Policy

Youth participants are welcome to attend the Summer Mission Trip under the following guidelines:
  • Youth must have completed 6th grade by the end of the 2025–26 school year to attend the Summer Mission Trip.
  • Youth entering 7th grade (those who have just completed 6th grade) are required to attend with a parent or legal caretaker who is 25 years of age or older for the duration of the trip.
  • Any youth with significant physical, behavioral, or emotional needs must attend with a parent or legal caretaker who is 25 years of age or older, regardless of the youth’s age or grade.
  • Mission Trip Leaders reserve the right, based on past experience, behavior, and maturity, to require a parent or legal caretaker to attend for any youth participant, regardless of age. 

Registration alone does not guarantee participation. All youth and adult registrations are subject to review and approval by the Mission Trip Leadership Team. All registrations are graciously considered, and decisions are made in good faith with the best interest of each participant and the overall group in mind. These guidelines exist to ensure the safety, well-being, and positive experience of every participant on the trip. 

Participant's Parent/Guardian Information

Emergency Medical Information

Confidentiality of Medical Information
All medical information provided will be kept confidential. It will be reviewed only by the Mission Trip Leader(s) and solely for the purpose of understanding any health concerns that may help them respond appropriately in the event of an emergency during the mission trip.

Prior to the trip, medical information will be reviewed privately by the Mission Trip Leader(s). During the trip, medical forms will be stored in a sealed envelope and accessed only if necessary to respond to an emergency. Once the mission trip concludes, all medical information will be securely destroyed using a paper shredder.

Emergency Contact

Primary Care Provider

Dentist

Insurance

Medical

In addition to physical readiness, we also want to ensure a safe and supportive experience for all participants.




Regarding first aid treatment:


Consent to Medical Treatment

I, (name), authorize the mission team leader(s) of West Lawn United Methodist Church to act as my agent(s) in providing consent for medical care for my child as deemed necessary by a licensed physician or medical professional. This may include diagnostic procedures (such as X-rays), the administration of anesthesia, medical or surgical treatment, and hospital care. Such care may be provided in a physician’s office, hospital, or other appropriate medical facility.

This authorization is given in advance of any specific diagnosis or treatment and is intended to allow mission team leader(s) to authorize prompt and appropriate medical care in the event of illness or injury during the mission trip.

This authorization shall remain in effect for the entire duration of the mission trip, from the time of departure from West Lawn United Methodist Church until the time of return.

I understand and agree that I am financially responsible for any medical care, treatment, or services provided to my child during the mission trip and that West Lawn United Methodist Church and its representatives are not responsible for any associated medical costs.
(if participant is under 18, parent/guardian must sign)

Emergency Medical Information

All medical information provided will be kept confidential. It will be reviewed only by the Mission Trip Leader(s) and solely for the purpose of understanding any health concerns that may help them respond appropriately in the event of an emergency during the mission trip.

Prior to the trip, medical information will be reviewed privately by the Mission Trip Leader(s). During the trip, medical forms will be stored in a sealed envelope and accessed only if necessary to respond to an emergency. Once the mission trip concludes, all medical information will be securely destroyed using a paper shredder.

Emergency Contact

Primary Care Provider

Dentist

Insurance

Medical

In addition to physical readiness, we also want to ensure a safe and supportive experience for all participants.

Consent to Medical Treatment

I, (name), understand that I am responsible for providing my own consent for medical care whenever I am able to do so.

In the event that I am unable to give informed consent due to illness, injury, or incapacity, I authorize the mission team leader(s) of West Lawn United Methodist Church to act as my agent(s) in providing consent for emergency medical care on my behalf, as deemed necessary by a licensed physician or medical professional. This may include diagnostic procedures (such as X-rays), the administration of anesthesia, medical or surgical treatment, and hospital care. Such care may be provided in a physician’s office, hospital, or other appropriate medical facility.

This authorization is given in advance of any specific diagnosis or treatment and is intended to allow mission team leader(s) to authorize prompt and appropriate medical care in an emergency when I am unable to do so.
This authorization shall remain in effect for the entire duration of the mission trip, from the time of departure from West Lawn United Methodist Church until the time of return.

I understand and agree that I am financially responsible for any medical care, treatment, or services provided to me during the mission trip and that West Lawn United Methodist Church and its representatives are not responsible for any associated medical costs.

Swimming Permission


Mission Trip Participation


Mission Trip Role

All team members are expected to assist wherever needed during the mission trip, including on the job site, in the kitchen, and around the volunteer center. 

Home Repair Crew

Skill Level Information

All skill levels are welcome and encouraged to participate! This assessment is simply to help us understand the overall strengths of our team and determine the types of projects we can take on. Please respond honestly using the following key to rate your experience in each category.

1. No skill (no experience/skill with this type of work before and would require detailed direction)

2. Low skill (minimal experience & would require direction)

3. Moderately skilled (done this type of work multiple times & would require minimal direction)

4. Highly skilled (done this type of work many times before, requires no direction)

5. Professional (do professional construction work)

Mission Nurse

Thank you for your willingness to serve as the Mission Nurse. This role carries significant responsibility, and we are grateful for your care and attentiveness. To help us ensure this role is a good fit, please provide the following information:



Kitchen Team

Thank you for your willingness to serve on the Kitchen Team. This role plays a vital part in supporting the entire mission team. To help us plan well and make the most of your gifts, please provide the following information: 




Facility Steward

Thank you for your willingness to serve as the Facility Steward. This role provides essential support for the entire mission team by helping maintain a safe, clean, and welcoming volunteer center. To help us plan well, please provide the following information: 



Parent/Guardian Permission

Note: All safety guidelines and supervision protocols will be followed. These tasks will only be assigned if age-appropriate and approved by the team leader.

Transportation

We are in need of adult volunteers, age 21 and older, who possess a valid driver’s license and are willing to operate vehicles during the mission trip. By indicating a willingness to drive, you affirm that you maintain a safe driving record and will operate your vehicle responsibly and in accordance with all traffic laws.

This year, we will not be using the church bus and will rely on adult drivers using personal vehicles, in addition to the church truck and church van. Vehicles should comfortably seat 4–5 people and have sufficient space for daily tools and supplies (such as a cooler, drinks, and personal items). Building materials and larger supplies are transported to the site by the host organization. Luggage space is not a primary concern, as a trailer will be used for luggage transport.

Please note: All drivers must hold a valid driver’s license and must provide a copy prior to the mission trip. This applies to anyone driving a personal, church, or rental vehicle during this trip.


Personal Vehicle Information

If you plan to drive your personal vehicle during the mission trip, please provide the following information. In the event of an incident, please be aware that your personal auto insurance will be considered the primary coverage. 
Please note: All drivers must provide a copy of their vehicle's proof of insurance prior to the mission trip.

Media Release and Consent

I, (name), grant permission to West Lawn United Methodist Church and its authorized designees to photograph, video record, or otherwise capture my image and voice. I further grant West Lawn United Methodist Church the right to use, reproduce, display, exhibit, broadcast, or distribute these images and recordings, now or in the future, in any media format, for the purpose of promoting, publicizing, or explaining the church’s ministries, programs, or activities, or for other lawful purposes.

I understand that West Lawn United Methodist Church may edit, crop, or otherwise modify images or recordings at its discretion. I also acknowledge that once images or recordings are published—particularly online—they may be accessed, shared, or downloaded by others beyond the control of the church.

I agree to release and hold harmless West Lawn United Methodist Church, its pastors, employees, agents, members, and designees from any claims, liabilities, or damages arising from the use of my image or voice as described above.

I understand that all photographs, video recordings, and audio recordings are the sole property of West Lawn United Methodist Church.
(if participant is under 18, parent/guardian must sign)

Release and Indemnification

I, (name), agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless West Lawn United Methodist Church, including its pastors, employees, agents, members, servants, and designees, from and against any and all claims, liabilities, damages, losses, or expenses arising out of my child’s participation in the mission trip or related activities. This includes, but is not limited to, attorney’s fees, court costs, investigative expenses, and other related costs.

This agreement applies to claims arising from:
  • The use of any real or personal property belonging to West Lawn United Methodist Church or its representatives;
  • Any act or omission of my child while participating in mission trip activities.

This release applies to any claims for injury, damage, or loss that may occur during participation in the mission trip or related activities, whether caused by negligence or otherwise, to the fullest extent permitted by law.
(if participant is under 18, parent/guardian must sign)

Participation Expectations and Commitments

I acknowledge that the following commitments are essential to the effectiveness, quality, and spiritual integrity of this mission experience. As a member of the mission team, I agree to the following:
  • Represent Jesus Christ in my thoughts, words, actions, and service, striving to reflect His love and character while keeping both the spiritual purpose and the work at hand in focus.
  • Remain with the team at all times unless given permission by the Mission Trip Leader(s) to separate for a specific reason.
  • Maintain a servant’s heart toward those we serve and toward every member of the team.
  • Pray regularly for the team, the people we serve, and the Mission Trip Leader(s), offering them respect and support in their leadership and decisions.
  • Refrain from judgment, maintaining a spirit of grace, humility, and mutual respect in all interactions.
  • Respect the religious views of others, including our hosts, those we serve, and fellow team members, recognizing that faith may be expressed in different ways.
  • Foster unity and harmony among the team, our hosts, and those we serve, while being mindful of and respectful toward local customs, laws, and conditions.
  • Abstain from the use of alcohol, tobacco (including vaping), illegal drugs, and profanity.
  • Refrain from any behavior or clothing that may be considered inappropriate or offensive.
  • Refrain from negativity, gossip, and a complaining spirit, and strive to contribute to a positive and respectful team environment.
  • Maintain a positive, flexible, and cooperative attitude regarding food, lodging, transportation, work assignments, and group dynamics.
  • Work in unity with the Mission Trip Leader(s) and fellow team members at all times.

I commit to keeping the main thing the main thing—serving Jesus Christ wholeheartedly from the moment we depart until we return home.

By submitting this application, I understand that submission does not guarantee participation in the mission trip. Final team selection is at the discretion of the Mission Trip Leader(s).
(if participant is under 18, parent/guardian must sign)

Submit

Mission Trip Tiered Pricing

We believe mission trips have the power to shape faith, build community, and form people through hands-on service. We also believe that cost should never be the reason someone feels unable to participate.

Tiered pricing allows us to make this mission trip accessible to as many people as possible. Through the generosity of donors and designated ministry funds, we are able to offset some of the costs for those who need it, while inviting others to help cover the full cost of the trip. Each tier reflects the same experience, the same work, and the same mission—only the cost differs.

We also believe that everyone should make a meaningful personal contribution toward the trip. Shared investment helps build commitment, responsibility, and a sense of ownership in the mission we are undertaking together.

Please choose the tier that best fits your current situation. No explanations are required.
  • Tier 1 – $150
    • This is a subsidized rate made possible through donations and ministry support. Tier 1 helps ensure that financial circumstances do not prevent someone from serving on the mission trip.
  • Tier 2 – $250
    • This tier reflects a partial contribution toward the true cost of the mission trip. Choosing Tier 2 helps support the mission as a whole while still receiving some financial assistance.
  • Tier 3 – $400
    • This tier represents the true cost of the mission trip, including lodging, meals, program expenses, materials, and required contributions.

Youth Scholarship Information
Youth participants may apply up to $50 in earned scholarship support by entering the code YOUTH at checkout.

If cost is truly a barrier to participation, please reach out to Pastor Chris privately.

All participants receive the same experience, serve in the same ways, and are part of the same mission.
pay for mission trip

Required Clearances

Adult Clearances Requirement
Because this mission trip includes overnight accommodations for both youth and adults, all adult participants (18 years and older) are required to have current clearances on file with West Lawn UMC prior to participating in the trip. This requirement is in accordance with West Lawn UMC’s Safe Sanctuary Policy and Pennsylvania State Law.

All volunteers are required to update their clearances every five (5) years for:
  • PA State Police Criminal Record Check
  • PA Child Abuse History Clearance

How to Submit Your Clearances
There are several options for submitting your clearance documentation:
  • If you have your clearances for employment or for volunteer purposes, you may submit copies of your current clearances to the church either by dropping off a physical copy (Attention: Finance Manager) or by emailing a PDF copy of them to finance@westlawnumc.org. 
    • If your clearances are dated within the last five years, no further action is needed. If they are older than five years, please use one of the options below.
  • You may complete the clearance process yourself by obtaining both the PA State Police Criminal Record Check and the PA Child Abuse History Clearance. Volunteer requests are free. Please note that these two clearances are completed through separate websites.  
  • If you prefer paper forms and would like the church (Finance Manager) to submit your requests, you may email Finance@westlawnumc.org to request copies. Once completed and returned, the Finance Manager will process the clearances and provide you with a copy.