San Diego is a beach city with the ocean, tourist locations and natural scenery surrounding the urban landscape. But amidst the city, residents face problems of homelessness, poverty and unemployment. Your group will have the opportunity to serve the people of San Diego by patnering with social service organizations that work with the homeless, children and the elderly.

Demographics

As the second most populous city in California, San Diego offers its residents city living, as well as close proximity to ocean waters, national forests, and a terrain that varies from foothills to mountains. Bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west, the Cleveland National Forest to the east, and Mexico’s Baja Peninsula to the south, San Diego has it all! The city itself is home to nearly 1.3 million people and has endless activities for both residents and tourists. But like many other large urban cities, this city wrestles with pressing socio-economic issues. Many families work hard to make ends meet, with multiple family members holding several jobs each. Federal statistics report that 10.9% of the population lives below the poverty line and over 50% of homes have critical housing needs. In the midst of this beautiful California city, the homeless population continues to grow, along with increasing low income neighborhoods and dilapidated housing.

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. 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: Relax at Coronado Beach; Participate in a community educational activity; Attend a local church service; and Enjoy a community cookout. 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. 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.

Mileage

There is an airport in San Diego, and several airports in Los Angeles, approximately 120 miles to the north.

Transportation & Travel

Each group is responsible for transportation to and from the site, and during the mission week. San Diego can accommodate standard 15 passenger vans or smaller.

Additional Information

If you would like more information on what there is to do in San Diego and surrounding areas before or after your trip, call the San Diego Convention and Visitors Bureau at 1.619.236.1212 to request a complete summer information kit. Or check out the following Web site: www.sandiego.com.