Savannah, Georgia is a Southern gem, filled with a unique history and character. From Savannah’s architecture and art to its gardens and open public spaces, there is plenty to see during a walk through this charming city. Savannah’s rapidly growing population, however, has contributed to city struggles such as poverty and homelessness. Your group can reach out to this community through partnering with local ministries to serve the homeless, the elderly and children and assist the city with house painting projects.

Demographics

The city of Savannah, Georgia is situated at the mouth of the Savannah River, which forms the border between Georgia and South Carolina. Savannah became the first city of Georgia in 1733, and in its early days played host to several battles during the American Revolution and the Civil War. Today, Savannah is home to 130,331 residents, with a metro-wide population of 296,232. Savannah’s metropolitan population is projected to rise 20.6 percent between 2000 and 2015, which means local government and organizations are looking ahead to ensure that no residents are overlooked and unable to maintain a decent lifestyle. Already, more than 35,000 people and families are living at or below the poverty level. Savannah also has a high number of homeless individuals, with an estimated 4,000 people living on the streets each year. Despite the challenges this city faces, the people are full of Southern hospitality and charm. They will warmly welcome you into their community to serve and encourage residents in need.

About the Ministry

Participants serve in a variety of ways during a YouthWorks mission trip. Students may spend all week at one ministry or switch between ministries during the week. Our goal is to partner with local organizations and programs that seek to address the very basic needs of residents. Students may serve at places like: Children’s Programs, Elderly Centers, Soup Kitchens/Homeless Shelters and Thrift Stores. Whether we’re painting houses, performing minor home repair, cleaning up debris, volunteering in community gardens or other projects in the community, work projects will serve as our way of blessing people in need. We cannot confirm until all groups arrive exactly what ministries your students will be a part of during the week. We ask that you come with a willing and flexible spirit!

Activities

Evening activities during a YouthWorks week are designed to give participants insight into the lives of local residents and the culture of the area. A list of evening/cultural activities we have done in the past include: visit old Savannah and River Street; attend an ice-cream social; attend a local church service; and go to the beach. These are examples of what your group might partake in during your mission week. These examples are subject to change due to weather or availability. In case of change, suitable substitutes will be provided. We try to arrange for free evening activities, but from time to time, an additional cost may be required for an activity. Please plan to bring an additional $10 per person to cover any extra costs. We will confirm the details closer to your trip.

Ministry Week

Partnering with Local Ministries and Work Projects.

Mileage

There is a major airport in Savannah; in Atlanta, GA, 253 miles northwest from Savannah; and in Jacksonville, FL, 140 miles south from the mission site.

Transportation & Travel

Each group is responsible for transportation to and from the site, and during the mission week. This is a bus accessible site. A bus is defined as any vehicle that is larger than a standard 15-passenger van. If you would like to bring a vehicle in this category, you will need to contact the Service Center to discuss the additional requirements due to the size of your group.

Additional Information

If you would like more information on what there is to do in Savannah and surrounding areas before or after your trip, visit the following Web site: www.savannahvisit.com/.