On a high bluff, alongside the Pearl River, the current site of Mississippi’s capital, Jackson was a desirable location for a French-Canadian trader to set up shop nearly 190 years ago, and it remains a desirable location still today! Voted as “One of America’s Most Livable Cities”, this City with Soul has a rich history and a lot to offer. But recent years have brought struggles from Hurricane Katrina and problems within the local government. These have left this community struggling, needing a boost up and out of the challenges of recent years. Your group will work with the John M. Perkins Foundation for Reconciliation and Development, partnering with them through tangible ministry opportunities to foster racial reconciliation and community development in Jackson. Your group can be the hands and feet of Jesus to this community in tangible ways!

Demographics

Originally called LeFleur’s Bluff, the area was quickly decided to be the permanent government seat for all of Mississippi in 1821 due to its central location and desirable geography. The name of the area was later changed to Jackson, as a tribute to 8th president Andrew Jackson, after his victory in the Battle of New Orleans. Though the region started strong, Jackson’s growth in the 1800’s was slow and painful at times. During the Civil War the town was rampaged and burned 3 times! During the Civil Rights movement of the 1960’s Jackson was once again in the spotlight. It was a site for many civil rights demonstrations - including the culmination of the Freedom Riders movement. Medgar Evers, civil rights activist, was murdered in Jackson and his funeral procession through the streets of Jackson numbered over 1,000! The current population is just under 175,000, a slight decrease over the past 9 years. In 2005 the city suffered significant and extensive damage from Hurricane Katrina, despite its inland location. The county was declared a disaster area. Though the area has recovered physically, other scars caused by the storm remain. Described as “a dynamic melting pot”, the diversity in the area is 70% African American. Recently there have been difficulties in the government. Former Mayor Frank Melton died in May 2009 after serving nearly four years in office. During his term, his unorthodox ways led to much discord within the government and despite his efforts to reduce crime, crime actually increased. Since the death of Melton, the previous mayor (and first ever elected African American mayor), Harvey Johnson, has stepped back into the role of mayor - beginning to repair some of the holes caused by the former official. The median income in Jackson is a few thousand less than the state average of just under $38,000 a year. As a result nearly 30% of residents live in poverty. The unemployment rate in Jackson is currently at 8.9% - the highest it has been in the past 10 years.

About the Ministry

We will be partnering with the Perkins Foundation to serve the community of Jackson and surrounding areas in a variety of ways. Groups may paint houses, perform minor home repair, clean up debris, or volunteer in community gardens. Groups may also volunteer at local organizations that seek to address the very basic needs of residents by serving 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. Below is a list of evening/cultural activities we have done in the past: visit a local park; participate in a cultural activity; attend a local church service; attend a local 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

Serving at Local Ministries and Work Projects (all in partnership with the Perkins Foundation).

Mileage

Jackson, MS has an international airport.

Transportation & Travel

Groups are responsible for transportation to and from the site, as well as during the mission week. This site can only accommodate standard 15 passenger vans or smaller.

Additional Information

To learn more about the community and tourism in Jackson, visit www.visitjackson.com or call 1-800-354-7695. Learn more about the Perkins Foundation at www.jmpf.org.