First Bethel United Methodist Church

First Bethel has the privilege of serving others for one week each summer through Appalachia Service Project. It is a ministry that we have participated in for several years and that we happily continue.

In their own words: “Appalachia Service Project (ASP) is a Christian ministry, open to all people, that fosters human development by addressing the housing needs of Central Appalachia. Each year through our ministry about 15,000 volunteers repair homes for 400-500 low-income families in rural areas of Central Appalachia. Our goal is to make homes warmer, safer and drier for families in need, while offering transformational experiences for families, volunteers, and staff alike.

The home repairs made can take place from the ground up to the roof, and everywhere in-between. Typical repairs include: repairing roofs, building room additions, providing wheelchair ramps, installing or repairing plumbing, updating unsafe wiring, securing foundations, digging drainage ditches, constructing porches and steps, installing insulation and siding, and weatherizing homes.

But ASP is more than just a home repair program. Through this process of service many lives are changed: those of the families being served, the volunteers serving, and the staff facilitating the process. Often the experience serves to enlighten everyone that the differences between us are only perceived—deep down we all want to be loved, to belong, to own something, and to create something worthwhile—no matter where we live, our economic status, education, or ethnic identity. No one walks away from the ASP experience unchanged—not families served, volunteers, or staff.” We couldn’t have said it better ourselves!

For more information, visit www.asphome.org.

Interested in joining in on one of First Bethel’s ASP trips? E-mail Info@FirstBethelUMC.org