Send Me on My Way
Often times the things we know we need to do, are the things that scare us the most. They are the things that bring out the most insecurity, the things we would rather run and hide than ever try, and force us to be more than we ever thought we could be.
For me that thing was squad leading for The World Race.
The thought of guiding 50 people across the world and all that goes with that, terrified me.
But …God did not give us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.(2 Timothy 1:7)
I am excited to say, I have been accepted to squad lead The World Race Gap Year this coming September to May!
God has done so much in my life, helping me overcome fears and showing me that “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13)
I am looking forward to the going out to the mission field again; this time as the role of a squad leader. I know God has big plans in it all for me, for my squad, and for all the people we come in contact with.
As many of you know I spent the fall in Gainesville, Georgia in a program called Center for Global Action with Adventures in Mission. I was a part of the leadership track which is designed to help develop people in hopes that they may go back out to be leaders for The World Race or in their communities back home. It was truly one of the most amazing times in my life. God used that time to teach me so many important lessons about life and leadership. I am so blessed to have had that time of learning before I head out as a squad leader.
I will be a part of a leadership team that will help guide around fifty 18 to 22 year olds doing missions on three different continents (Asia, Africa, and Central America) for nine months. Gap year is a little different from the Race as we will stay in one country for 3 months before we move to a new continent. My main focus of ministry will also look a little different as my main focus will be ministering to the racers. This involves Helping them navigate being on the mission field, making sure teams are healthy, and being there with them as they grow spiritually. I am so excited to be the person who gets to have a firsthand look into what God is moving in the lives of the people on my squad.
While I was on my race I was blessed with some of the most amazing leaders who walked in the grace, peace, and wisdom of the Lord. Whether they know it or not, they had a huge impact on my life. I saw the relationship they had with Jesus and knew it was something I wanted. Their example and encouragement has given me the courage to step out into this leadership position. I pray God will use me to encourage, empower, teach, and advocate for people on my squad in the same way that my leaders did for me.
I am in the process of raising support to cover the cost of this opportunity
The great news is that because of some amazing and generous monthly supporters the $3,500 cost of the trip is nearly covered. I need one last commitment of $20 a month starting now to next May to be fully funded.
I will however need some support to help me cover a few other purchases.
Here is a breakdown in purchases in addition to the trip:
Plane tickets
Round trip plane ticket to Georgia for training camp in July- about $650
One way to Georgia for launch in September about – $350
One way ticket home in May about $350
*** Or if you have air miles you are interested in donating let me know.
Supplies
Tent- $150
Iphone (unlocked) about- $300
Other- There are always a few unforeseen cost when you gear up to leave for a year. So I am just gonna just plan a little bit of a rainy day fund.
Health Care Bills
Pre trip medical expenses-$150
Health Care Coverage: $140 a month.One of my biggest expenses while I am gone will be my Samaritans Ministry Health Care coverage. It is important to have it just in case something were to happen. I am going to have a portion of my support money go to that so I don’t have to catch up on bills after I get home.
I cannot thank all the people that are supporting me now and have in the past enough. I am so blessed by you all.
If you would like to help support me by helping cover some of these expenses send me an e-mail at [email protected] and we can work out the details from there.
I am also working on a small business venture called Home Free Tees. It is a collaborative effort that designs and sells t-shirts. The proceeds are donated to missions around the world. Currently, all of the proceeds will help me with funding for my support raising. If you’d like to have an awesome new tee and support me at the same time, check out the Etsy site.
Here is the latest. Inspired by the amazing women who have the strength, dedication, and heart to “climb on” no matter how hard it gets.
Be sure to check back often, as we have several more shirts in the works already.
Love Anika
