Experience the beauty of the countryside and the beautiful banks of the Monongahela River in the Mon Valley region of Pennsylvania. The economic prosperity of the region’s past has unfortunately given way to more recent struggles with poverty. In the small town of Monessen, which has more of an urban feel, and surrounding areas, your group will partner with local ministries and facilitate a Kids Club, all while shining the light of Christ in this community.

Demographics

The small town of Monessen is located in the Mon Valley area of Pennsylvania, just 30 miles south of Pittsburgh. The town of Monessen, with its friendly small-town culture, downtown shops and Historical Society, sits on the banks of the Monongahela River. Steel-making was a prominent industry in Monessen, driving the town’s rapid growth in the first two decades of the twentieth century. In the early 1970s, the riverfront industrial area declined in production, employment and economic strength when the demand for domestic steel fabrication lessened. In the early 1990s, the last remaining industrial facility on the riverfront closed. The population, which was once nearly 20,000, is today just 8,669. This small town experiences many of the struggles evident in more urban communities. Over 15 percent of the population lives in poverty, including over 27 percent of those under age 18. Unfortunately the town’s riverfront potential has not gone unnoticed, but redevelopment plans are in the works, which the county anticipates will attract new employers. Come to Mon Valley to be blessed by these friendly, small-town residents as you minister to them.

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. Students may participate in a Kids Club and partnering with local organizations. Kids Club is a hands-on program led by your youth offering high-energy games, crafts, skits, songs and interactive lessons all designed to help kids learn about Jesus. 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: swimming at a local pool; attend a local church service; take part in a community educational experience; and attend 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. 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

Kids Club (begins late June) and Partnering with Local Ministries.

Mileage

The Monongahela (Mon) Valley region is located about 35 miles south of Pittsburgh.

Transportation & Travel

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

Additional Information

If you would like more information on what there is to do in Pennsylvania and surrounding areas before or after your trip, check out these Web sites: www.visitpittsburgh.com and www.pittsburghcitytourist.com.