MISSION WORK CAMP GUIDELINES
EL HOGAR DE NIÑOS EMANUEL
As set forth by the Board of Directors of the Home
and Western Pennsylvania District Mission Program Coordinators
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The work camps to Honduras are designed for adults over the age of
eighteen.
Youth ages 16-17 may attend the work camp provided that he/she is
accompanied by a parent or designated adult.
The size of the work team will be determined by the sleeping facilities
and transportation vehicles available to the group. A group of ten to
twelve is advisable.
Final determination whether an applicant is approved for the work
camp is decided by-a. Reviewing the applicant’s medical history.
b. Reviewing applicant’s abilities to perform the skills needed
for a particular project.
c. Placing all veteran workers at the bottom of the registration
list in order that all first-time applicants have the opportunity
to obtain a spot on the team. It is important to allow everyone
who desires to be part of a work camp to a foreign country the
chance to participate.
d. To add applicants to the registration according to timely
receipt of fees by the due dates. (Applicants who do not pay
by the due dates will be dropped from the registration list.)
e. Make sure that all applicants have submitted their
commitment forms and medical release forms
f. Make sure all applicants have a current passport.
All groups or individuals who will require overnight housing on the
premises must first have written permission from the President and the
Executive Director.
Any group or individual that will remain more than three days / two
nights must have a specific project or need for the stay stating the
intended project and the expected outcome of that project.
IN ORDER TO FOLLOW THE LONG-TERM GOALS OF THE
HOME, ALL PROJECTS MUST RECEIVE PREVIOUS APPROVAL
FROM THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS BEFORE PROCEEDING. A
written list of pre-approved or scheduled projects can be obtained
through the Work Camp Coordinators. The Board of Directors for the
Home reserves the right to change this list at any time.
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Most work camps are for a term of fourteen days or less. Any
deviation that will exceed a fourteen day stay must be approved.
All scheduling of overnight guests or work groups must be approved on
the Work Camp calendar located in the Executive Director’s office in
order to prevent overlapping groups and project ideas.
Only persons who have previous permission by the board or the
Executive Director of the Home are authorized to drive any vehicles
owned by the Home. An International driver’s license is required by
the Board and can be obtained at any AAA office in the United States.
These persons must follow all rules and regulations concerning driving
safety and traffic laws.
All work camp participants must follow the buddy system while they
are part of the Work Group. No one unfamiliar with Honduras should
leave the grounds of the Home alone.
All Work Camp participants must have a completed Emergency
Contact and Medical form, along with their signed Commitment Sheet
ready to be filed in the office immediately upon arrival. (Forms
attached)
There will be no single (unmarried) “couples” sharing a room alone.
All Participants must abide by the written (or spoken) guidelines set
before them by the Executive Director, On-site Work Camp
coordinator(s), and USA Work Camp Coordinator(s) while a member
of the work team.
Grocery items, bottled water, toilet paper, gasoline used by vehicles
owned by the Home, etc. are expenses that must be covered by each
work group. The Home does not have the ability to absorb any
additional expenses that may be created by overnight visitors/ work
groups.
If you are invited to share meals with the children, a donation to the
Home will help to offset this additional expense.
Fraternization of two individual members of the opposite sex (datingstyle) between the work camp participants and the staff or resident
children of the Home is strictly prohibited.
Each work camp team is expected to leave the bunkhouse of his/her
living quarters at least as clean(er) state than when he/she first arrived.
Each work team should designate a person to be in charge of the
kitchen. Proper clean-up after each meal is essential. Remember, you
are guests in someone else’s home.
It is customary for the work groups to include as their guest the on-site
liaison person in their worship times, meals, and tour days.
21. Please understand that ALL rules for the children of the Home take
precedence over the work group’s plans. It is important that we do
not override any of their rules.
A FEW EXAMPLES:
a. All children must be inside their dormitories by 9:00 pm.
regardless of the fact that they have guests on the premises.
b. A child who has been grounded or is being disciplined may
not accept an invitation to leave the orphanage grounds or be
given special privileges by the work team members.
c. All gifts must be approved by the Director before being
presented to a child. Gifts may be withheld from a child
during a time of disciplinary action.
22. SHARING THE STORY
“We cannot but speak for what we have seen and heard.” Acts 4:20
“Go home to your friends, and tell then how much the Lord has done for you,
and what mercy he has shown you.” Mark 5:19
Your trip will not end with touch down on homeland soil. Upon
returning from your work camp, it is STRONGLY advised that the
work group alumni meet with the Debriefing Team to share their
experiences and learn ways to process their new experiences in light of
their old routines and familiar surroundings. This “debriefing” should
occur within two weeks of your return home.
19. UNDERSTAND YOUR INVESTMENT
A. TIME – You must be prepared to invest the NECESSARY time to
attend the orientation meetings, be on time for all traveling, spend
the time needed to complete the project, enjoy some tour time, and
attend the required debriefing session. A typical trip would be for
one-to-two weeks depending on the make-up of the team and the
needs of the orphanage.
B. FINANCES – Your expenses will include a registration fee, NONREFUNDABLE air/ground transportation, food, lodging, tour
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day, exit fee and A DONATION toward your chosen project.
Please be aware that the cost will vary for each individual trip and
will be determined with fairness to everyone. The total cost of the
trip is directly tied to the cost of airfare. Various fund-raising
activities can be held to help defray the cost, but each team
member must understand he/she is ultimately responsible for
his/her own expenses. Once a date has been established for airfare
deposit, a non-refundable deposit must be paid.
COMMITMENTS
As mission team members, we are not only representing ourselves, we ARE
representing our Lord, our church, the United States and our local community.
Therefore, please sign the attached covenant stating that you are willing to agree
to the standard codes of conduct and mission trip guidelines. These guidelines
are not meant to be imposing, but to provide short-term mission workers with
the attitudes of being a good Christian witness while in a different culture.
Remembering that I am setting a Christian example by my behavior:
I believe that God’s command to take the Gospel message to all peoples applies
to every Christian. I will support the project with my prayers and best work
ethics. Regardless of a language barrier, I will set a strong Christian example
in my work, word, attitude, and deed to everyone I am in contact with, including
others in my work group.
The clothing I will wear on the trip will be conservative and functional. It
will not be revealing or suggestive. T-shirts that do not contain any language or
graphics that would be considered offensive would be a good choice. Basic
rule: If I am not sure whether it would be acceptable, I will leave it at home.
All jewelry is discouraged (especially valuable or valuable-looking jewelry) to
avoid it being lost or stolen. If I am a boy/man, I will wear a shirt at all times. It
is considered disrespectful to be bare-chested in Honduras regardless of the
heat. If I am a women/girl, I will not wear low cut tops or short-shorts. Shorts
should be no more than 3 inches above the knee. Slacks or skirts are suggested
when going into town.
I will not use tobacco, tobacco products, alcohol, illegal drugs, or profane
language on the grounds of the project or when with other group members.
This is strictly prohibited.
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I will abstain from any excessive display of affection and will not be
involved in any sexual behavior that would be interpreted as anything less
than a Godly relationship. I understand that fraternization of two
individual members of the opposite sex (dating-style) between the work
camp participants and the staff or resident children of the Home is strictly
prohibited.
I will be FLEXIBLE! From the time I make the commitment to travel on a
work camp/ mission trip until the time I return home, I will be flexible.
Much advance planning will be done for each trip, but circumstances requiring
revision almost always arise; therefore, I must be willing to adapt to change
easily. The word is: “ FLEXIBLE---FLEXIBLE--- FLEXIBLE!”
I will be a person who comes to give attention, not to receive it.
I will not be critical of the disciplinary procedures of the local directors of
the program/project. They work daily with and have an intimate knowledge of
their people and culture. It is not up to me to second guess or intervene with
their authority.
I will have ALL GIFTS to the resident children of the Home approved by
the local director of the program/project. Gifts will be distributed only in
accordance with his/her discretion. CASH gifts given directly to the children
are strongly discouraged. However, a gift can be purchased on my behalf by the
on-site liaison coordinator and given to a child when appropriate. It is important
to keep jealousy and resentment among the children to a minimum. I understand
that gifts that require additional or ongoing expense to the child (such as toys
that require batteries) is also discouraged for obvious reasons.
I will be supportive of the work group coordinators/leaders. I understand
that they will have the final say on all decisions that are based on the
consideration of the group’s safety, finances, and project outcomes. They have
put much effort into the planning of the trip, but many times unforeseen
situations arise. I will work with them to make this trip a wonderful success for
everyone. Many times they are aware of the BIG PICTURE and why things
must be done a certain way. I will give them the benefit of the doubt or discuss
my concerns with them in private.
No matter how cute, I will refrain from photographing a child who is not
clothed.
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I will obey the laws and respect the people of the foreign country in which I
am working.
If there is work to be done, I’ll do it. If someone needs comforting, I’ll
comfort. If there is a schedule to be met, I’ll be on time.
I understand that I will be responsible for all expenses related to my trip
including any required immunizations or physical exams, passport, airfare, food,
lodging, and exit fee from a foreign country. Unless I have purchased a travel
insurance policy, I will not be refunded for any amount of the travel expense
should I decide not to go or if I must return home at a time other than the
original scheduled time and am aware of the exclusions built into the travel
insurance, as well.
I have read and understand the above guidelines that are based on
scripture and scriptural principles and understand that they are not
debatable. *
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_ (Signature)
*This is a cross-cultural experience for you as well as the people you are serving.
Therefore, in order to receive the maximum benefit of a Christian short-term work camp,
the above guidelines have been carefully designed with your safety, comfort, and
satisfaction in mind. However, please be aware that these guidelines may be subject to
modification at any time.
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TRAVELER’S HEALTH AND SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS
For travel to
CENTRAL AMERICA
The following recommendations, though optional, are for your safety:
BEFORE LEAVING HOME:
It would be wise to have a current physical examination and your doctor’s
approval to travel to Honduras and able to perform the tasks you are planning to
do. Remember that medical attention is limited once you are in Honduras.
Obtain and take with you an antibiotic for traveler’s diarrhea. (You will need a
prescription for Cipro or something equivalent). Food and waterborne diseases
are the number one cause of illness in travelers. Travelers’ diarrhea can be
caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites, which are found throughout the region
and can contaminate food or water. Infections may cause diarrhea and vomiting.
Keep in mind that if you need to take this drug, you should then avoid direct
sunlight.
Approximate cost for Cipro* - $50.00
*(brand name)
IMMUNIZATIONS:
Be sure to see your doctor at least 4-6 weeks before your trip to allow time for
immunizations to take effect.
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Tetanus shot - It is always wise to have a current tetanus shot
especially when you will be out of the country and be working on
construction projects.
Approximate cost: $11.50
Hepatitis A or immune globulin (IG) – to protect against contaminated
water. You can protect yourself by drinking only bottled or boiled
water, or carbonated drinks in cans or bottles. (Pepsi and Coke are
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plentiful in Honduras) Avoid tap water, fountain drinks, and ice cubes.
You can also add iodine tablets (found in camping supply stores) to
filtered water.
Approximate cost: $200.00 (this is given in two doses over six
months)
Hepatitis B, if you might be exposed to blood (for example, health-care
workers)
Approximate cost: $300.00+ (this is given in 3 doses over
several months)
Malaria, you can prevent infection by taking prescription antimalarial
drugs. You can protect yourself against mosquito bites by wearing
long sleeves and pants and by using an insect repellent containing 3035% DEET. Travelers who become ill with a fever or flu-like illness
while traveling in a malaria-risk area and up to 1 year after returning
home should seek prompt medical attention and should tell the
physician their travel history.Approximate cost: $115.15 for 7 tabs
Yellow fever- if spending time outside of urban areas (especially
Panama)Approximate cost: $103.75
Rabies – if you will be exposed to wild animals. You can protect
yourself by not handling animals (especially monkeys, dog, and cats)
Note: Costs listed above are as per Somerset Hospital Occupational Health
Dept. -- 10/21/02
OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS:
 Wash your hands often with soap and water.
 Eat only cooked food or fruits and vegetables you have peeled yourself.
Remember: boil it, cook it, peel it, or forget it!
 Drink only bottled or boiled water or carbonated drinks in cans or
bottles. (Bottled water, Pepsi, and Coke products are available in
Honduras.) Avoid tap water, fountain drinks, and ice cubes. You can
also add iodine tablets (found in camping supply stores) to filtered
water.
 DON’T eat food purchased from street vendors
 Avoid nighttime travel and ALWAYS travel with a buddy.
 To prevent fungal and parasitic infections, keep feet clean and dry, and
do not go barefoot.
 DO NOT have personal/intimate relations with the local people.
 USE sun block, sunglasses, and wear a hat.
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IMPORTANT!!
Make sure you have enough prescription
medications with you to last for the whole trip, as well as a copy of
the prescription. Keep all medications in their original containers
and mark the outside with the reason for taking it. Be sure to let a
buddy know where to find your medications for you.
HOW TO OBTAIN A PASSPORT
(Normal processing time is 5 to 6 weeks)
A VALID and CURRENT PASSPORT IS GOOD FOR TEN YEARS for adults
and good for FIVE years for children.
Where to apply:
Closest County Court House–Prothonotary’s office
or
Post Offices in most large cities
Johnstown Post Office - 814-533-6141
Open for passport processing: Monday –Friday 9:30 am to 4:00pm
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Things you will need:
1. ORIGINAL BIRTH CERTIFICATE -A raised seal certificate issued by your
state of birth (NOT the certificate from the hospital with your footprints.)
If you do not have an original birth certificate, you can apply for one by completing an
application at your State Representatives office or at a major city’s post office or you can apply at
Vitalchek.com. Do this immediately as you will need time to get this back before you can apply
for your passport.
You will need proof of ID--such as a driver’s license. Need express service? For an additional
fee, you can call the Bureau of Vital Statistics in your state. (In PA, call (724)656-3100)
2. PHOTO ID – Your driver’s license, College ID, or Military ID
3. TWO - IDENTICAL 2”x2” PHOTOGRAPHS OF YOURSELF
You can get these at AAA, Photography studios, or Post office
4. NEED TO KNOW -- Your mother’s maiden name, father’s full name, the year and
state of birth of each parent.
Still running late in applying? If you need to receive your passport in less than
six weeks, there will be an additional expedition fees.
If you need to receive your passport in less than two weeks: You
must make an appointment and travel to either Washington DC (202)6470518 or Philadelphia, PA (215)418-5937 to get same day service. You will
also need the proof of your departure date from the United States
Information about the Country of HONDURAS
Honduras was the original banana republic and is still one of the least developed
and industrialized countries in Central America. It is a very poor country,
especially in the rural areas.
Location
Honduras is located in the knee of Central America, bordered to the south by El
Salvador and the southeast by Nicaragua; to the west is Guatemala, and to the
north by the Caribbean coast.
Climate
The climate varies between the mountainous interior and the coastal lowlands.
The rainy season technically begins in May and last until October. The dry
season between November and April, but on the Caribbean coast it rains all
year. The temperatures vary from the mid-70’s to 100˚ mark and usually very
humid.
Money
The currency is the Lempira. Exchange rate is about 19.4 lempiras to $1.00 US
(as of 6/05)
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Culture
Spanish is the principal language. Roman Catholic is the predominant religion,
although there are many other Christian denominations. Honduran crafts
include woodcarving, basketry, embroidery, and textile arts. Their major
industries are coffee, bananas, beef, sugar cane, tobacco, and forestry.
Cuisine
The typical meals are based around beans, rice, tortilla, fried bananas, meat,
potatoes, cream and cheese. However, there are many restaurants in the city that
serve American food such as Burger King, McDonalds, TGI Fridays, Ruby
Tuesdays, Applebees, and Pizza Hut. Note: Tips are generally 10% and are
often automatically calculated into the final checks.
Time Zone
Honduras is one hour behind EST.
Sports
Soccer is by far the national pastime, but there are also leagues and facilities for
most of the same sporting activities as in the US.
Electricity
Electricity is generally supplied at 110 volts, although 220-volt outlets are not
uncommon.
Shopping
The major cities have many places to shop (department stores, pharmacies, grocery stores,
hardware stores, etc.) The best place to shop for Honduran crafts and souvenirs is the
“Guamalito Typical Market” in San Pedro Sula or the “Turi Plaza” in El
Progresso.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION concerning your airfare!!!!!
PLEASE BE ADVISED
We will make every effort to obtain the best airfare and flight schedule for our
Work Camps. The cost of airfare fluctuates depending on the day (or even the
time of day) of the booking. Many times an individual rate can be found for
less money by bidding online, however in order to keep the flight schedule of
the entire group “together”, our airline tickets are purchased through a travel
agency at a bulk rate (and not on-line -- because we cannot make group
arrangements via Internet sites.)
This helps to keep the costs fair for
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EVERYONE who travels with us. Therefore, once your name has been listed
on the roster with the travel agency, the cost of your ticket becomes
NON-REFUNDABLE AND NON-TRANSFERRABLE
FOR ANY REASON
You can purchase travel insurance that offers some protection in the event your
travel plans must change.
However, please be sure you understand the
exclusions for a refund/transfer--even if you have purchased this insurance.
Because many times we are faced with the unexpected, and because the
unexpected can sometimes be very costly, we recommend that you purchase
travel insurance. You will personally be responsible for any unexpected
expenses of your trip.
Travel insurance is not required for your trip. However, keep in mind that the
cost of your airline ticket is non-refundable (for any reason!) unless you have
purchased the travel insurance, and even then there are exclusions -- such as
changing your travel plans due to personal reasons, unable to obtain a passport
in time, or bad weather. Please carefully review and understand the benefits that
are provided with your policy.
Listed below are a few companies that can offer travel insurance and can answer
your questions about the BENEFITS, COSTS AND EXCLUSIONS of various
plans. ACCESS AMERICA*(800) 284-8300 or TRAVELSAFE* (888) 885-7233
*Your work camp coordinators will have application forms available.
DISCLAIMER: The Church of the Brethren, International Christian Aid, the project site or your
work camp coordinators is NOT responsible FOR ANY LOSSES OR UNFORESEEABLE
EVENTS
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PACKING SUGGESTIONS
PLEASE FOLLOW ALL NEW SECURITY RULES! CHECK AND RECHECK TO MAKE SURE THAT YOU DO NOT CARRY SOMETHING
ON BOARD THAT YOU SHOULD NOT HAVE. IT WILL DETAIN
YOU!!!
DO NOT
pack bottles or aerosol cans, the mess can be
catastrophic!
DO NOT PUT, TOOLS, SHARP OBJECTS OF ANY KIND, LIQUIDS OR
GELS OF ANY KIND, NAIL CLIPPERS or NAIL FILES, BATTERIES,
NEEDLES (even a small sewing kit, or anything that may even
resemble a weapon) IN YOUR CARRY ON LUGGAGE. THESE
THINGS MUST BE CARRIED IN YOUR “checked baggage!”
DO NOT LOCK your luggage. Airport security will be checking inside
your bags.
GENERAL LUGGAGE RESTRICTIONS FOR EACH PERSON:
The airlines will allow two pieces of checked luggage.. Each piece must weigh
less than 50 lbs. per bag with a linear dimension (l+w+h) of 62” or less. (Note
the reduction in weight limit from 70 lbs. previously allowed for international
travel). $25 additonal charge for bags weighing between 50 & 70 lbs.)
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ONE PIECE of CHECKED luggage for your personal articles
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ONE PIECE of CHECKED luggage to be assigned to you that will
contain
tools, etc. needed for the project or special donations made to the Home.
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ONE carry-on is permitted
The FAA has announced a new rule limiting airline passengers to one piece of
carry-on baggage per person plus one personal item (briefcase, pocketbook, or
purse). The new restrictions are being implemented to give screeners more time
to check bags and passengers at security checkpoints. Passengers should be
prepared for possible additional screening of laptops, cellular phones, and other
electronic devices. One must fit in the overhead compartment weighing under
40 lbs. with a linear dimension no larger than 9”x 14” x 22” and the other
smaller piece must fit under the seat in front of you.
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Note: The airlines reserve the right to charge a small fee for every pound/piece of luggage over the
limit. PLEASE CONSIDER the limited space available in ground transportation.
Things to Take with you
Passport and another form of identification (such as your driver’s
license)
Airline ticket and Itinerary with confirmation numbers
Credit card (Notify your credit card company of your travel plans)
Personal spending money
Insurance cards
Addresses and phone numbers where you will be staying
DO NOT pack glass bottles
DO NOT put ANY tools, liquids, gels, needles, or anything that can
be considered a weapon of any kind inside your carry-on bag.
These items MUST be packed inside your “checked” baggage or it
will most definitely be confiscated at the airport.
Suggested clothing:
(2) Pair of Tennis Shoes (so you always have a dry pair) or boots/ shoes for
work
Supply of socks and underwear
Work clothes --Jeans and cotton tee shirts –please no suggestive sayings or
alcohol or cigarette advertisements –PLEASE!
(Men: A shirt is required at all times Ladies: No low cut tops or short-shorts)
Hat or cap (keep your head covered in the hot sun)
Poncho (or even a large garbage bag) to put over your clothes to keep dry if you must work in the
rain
Sweater or sweatshirt or lightweight jacket
A set or two of nicer clothes for tour days or to go out to eat in the evening.
Personal Care:
Set of Sheets (weather is warm) –The bunk beds have single size mattresses.
Small pillow/ light blanket
Towels / washcloth
Soap / toothbrush / tooth paste/personal toiletries
Toilet paper
Handi wipes (Travel packs of wet ones)
Liquid laundry detergent—you may want to wash some things out by hand.
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Clothes pins / line
Medical:
Prescriptions you normally take –in their original container and enough for the duration of
your stay.
Antiseptic ointment
Band-aids
Sun Screen
Aspirin / Tylenol (pain
pills)
Pepto Bismol (tablets)
Imodium AD for diarrhea
Laxative
Filled prescription of Cipro (An antibiotic used for traveler’s diarrhea)
Insect Repellent at least 30 – 35% Deet or Avon Skin-so-soft
Miscellaneous:
Bible and devotional materials
Notebook & pencils
Sharpie indelible pen
Calculator
Work gloves
Flashlight/Camera and extra batteries for
each
Travel alarm
Spanish/English dictionary
Film -- you can buy extra film in Honduras, but disposable cameras are very expensive there.
Phone cards –Calling home is possible, but quite expensive. Be aware that your phone cards
may cost you up to $8.00 a minute calling FROM Honduras TO the US. It may be wise to have a
phone chain in place to pass messages along to those back home.)
Journal --You are encouraged to keep a daily journal of your reflections during your mission
experience
Money belt or pouch --to secure passport / money / tickets --You will want to keep this with
you at all times. It is especially important to carry your passport when you go on tour days in the
event you go through routine police checks.
Materials needed for your specific project
☻Se Habla Espanol:
I couldn't find my luggage at the airport baggage area
so I went to the lost luggage office and told the woman there that my bags never
showed up. She smiled and told me not to worry because they were trained
professionals and I was in good hands. "Now," she asked me, "has your plane
arrived yet?"
TOOL LIST
This is only a suggested list of tools—and will vary from project to project.
This list is to be used ONLY as a checklist to be discussed at a pre-trip
meeting with each specific work team.
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Everyone has favorite tools they like to use, please feel free to bring whatever
you choose. It is also a good idea to mark your tools in some way (two
different colors of electrical tape work well), but keep in mind that often tools
are permanently lost. It is not necessary to take everything on this list, and it is a
good idea to coordinate with other members of the work group for the larger
tools that may be needed for a specific job. Make a Check list of the tools you
want to remember to take home.
Electricians
Wire strippers
Electrical tape
Wire nuts
Side cutters
Linesmen’s pliers
Electical meters
Tool belt
Protective eye wear & face masks
Wonder Bar
Vice grips -- Small & large
Saw
Wood Chisel
Wood clamps
Large knife
Heavy duty extension cords
Painters
Rollers and pan
Wide and narrow paint brushes
Painting clothes
PLUMBERS
Wrenches
Pliers
Plumbing snake
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Carpenters
Carpenter’s pencil
Chalk line
Duct tape
Screwdriver (s), straight &
Phillips
Level
Tin Snips
Hammer & holster
File
Leatherman tool
Pliers -- Slip joint &
needle nose
Power tools
Rechargable drill and
batteries
Small steel drill bits & 3/8,
½, and 3/4
Circular saw
Saw-zaw
Dremel tool
COOKS:
Disposable dish clothes
Dish towels
Pots, pans, dishes,
silverware and cups etc.
should be available
Groceries can be purchased
in San Pedro Sula.
SCOPE OF WORK
Each work group will be working on a different project. The scope of work
to be performed may change from the day to day and you may not be doing
exactly what you thought you were GOING TO DO when you originally
starting making plans for your trip. Please keep an open mind and know
that you are serving God and His children regardless of what task you may
be asked to do once you arrive at the project site.
Specific job assignments will be given to each day. There will also be other
incidental projects that always come up while we are there.
But first and foremost: Get to know the kids and enjoy your time with them
THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT AIDS
As you are already aware, the children at Emanuel Children’s Home have been
placed there for various reasons. One of these reasons is the fact that they have
lost one or both of their parents to an AIDS related death. Also, it is a published
fact that San Pedro Sula, Honduras, is the AIDS capital of the Americas with a
very high incidence of the disease throughout the city where we will be staying.
Due to the possibility that our group may come in contact with persons with
AIDS, please review the basic facts about HIV and AIDS (acquired
immunodeficiency syndrome) in order to remain safe:
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People who are infected with HIV can look and feel healthy and may not know
for years that they are infected. However, they can infect other people no matter
how healthy they seem. HIV slowly wipes out parts of the body’s immune
system; then the HIV-infected person gets sick because the body can’t fight off
diseases. Some of these diseases can kill them.
Signs of HIV infection are like those of many other common illnesses, such as
swollen glands, tiring easily, losing weight, fever, or diarrhea. Different people
have different symptoms.
HIV is in people’s blood, semen, vaginal fluid, and breast milk. The only way
to tell if someone is infected with HIV is with a blood test.
There is no vaccine to prevent HIV infection and no cure for AIDS. There are
treatments that can keep infected people healthy longer and prevent diseases that
people with AIDS often get. Research is ongoing.
HIV slowly makes an infected person sicker and sicker. Diseases and infections
will cause serious illness, but people often get better – until the next illness.
Sometimes, HIV can damage the brain and cause changes in feelings and
moods; even make it hard to think clearly. Someone with AIDS can feel fine in
the morning and be very sick in the afternoon. It can seem like riding a roller
coaster, slowly climbing up to feeling good, then plunging down into another
illness.
How HIV is Spread
The most common ways HIV is spread are:
 By having unprotected anal, vaginal, or oral sex with one who is
infected with HIV
 By sharing needles or syringes (“works”) with someone who is infected
with HIV
 From mothers to their babies before the baby is born, during birth, or
through breastfeeding. Taking the drug AZT during pregnancy can
reduce the chances of infecting the baby by two-thirds, but will not
prevent all babies from becoming infected with HIV.
Earlier in the AIDS epidemic some people became infected through blood
transfusions, blood products (such as clotting factors given to people with
hemophilia), or organ or tissue transplants. This has been very rare in the US
since 1983, when the test for HIV was licensed.
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Since then, all donated blood and donors of organs or tissue are tested for HIV.
However, it is important to know that in Honduras, blood is not screened as
it is in the United States.
How HIV is NOT Spread
You do not get HIV from the air, food, water, insects, animals, dishes, forks,
spoons, toilet seats, or anything else that doesn’t involve blood, semen, vaginal
fluids, or breast milk. You don’t get HIV from feces, nasal fluid, saliva, sweat,
tears, urine, or vomit unless these have blood mixed with them. You can help
people with HIV eat, dress, even bathe, without becoming infected yourself, as
long as you follow the steps described on protecting yourself. You do get other
germs from many of the things listed above, so do use common sense.
Guarding Against Infections
People living with AIDS can get very sick from common germs and infections.
Hugging, holding hands, giving massages, and many other types of touching are
safe for you, and needed by the person with AIDS. But you have to be careful
not to spread germs that can hurt the person you are caring for.





Wash your hands. Washing your hands is the single best way to kill
germs. Do it often! Wash your hands after you go to the bathroom and
before you fix food.
Cover your sores. If you have any cuts or sores, especially on your
hands, you must take extra care not to infect the person with AIDS or
yourself. If you have
cold sores, fever blisters, or any other skin infection, don't touch the
person or their
things.
Don’t share personal items. You should not share razors,
toothbrushes,
tweezers, nail or cuticle scissors, pierced earrings or other "pierced"
jewelry, or any other item that might have their blood on it.
DO NOT touch anyone’s blood. Although, someone may fall and
scrape a knee or cut a finger and come to you for assistance. PLEASE
do not touch them if they are bleeding. Get help from someone who
is familiar with how to deal with this and who can help while wearing
rubber gloves. You may be tempted to dig in to help (especially if
someone is hurt), but PLEASE DO NOT TOUCH ANY BLOOD!!!
Intimate (sexual) contact is the #1 cause for the spread of HIV.
Therefore, you know the rules—medically and morally.
19
IT’S A DIFFICULT BUSINESS
Children helped us to our bus,
Helped three of us carry our luggage
Before they helped the rest of us.
They wanted a dollar for their help
And when the dollar went away,
Another child was there,
And then another, and another,
And no more dollars,
And then the begging faces
They make such begging faces;
That’s when we started handing out the pencil and pads.
Boligrafos!
The word spread quickly.
Wildfireifically!
And we were surrounded, engulfed by the begging faces.
People see the future in those faces
that the children wear.
They see more poverty and despair
Then --- three more travelers
were ready with their luggage -Equipaj’e
And then the process starts again.
Un dollar, un dollar
Travelers that don’t yet realize how much
A U.S. dollar is --fall into the dollar trap
over and over again.
And it makes a poor child’s day
or breaks a poor child’s day.
They are everywhere and anyway –
What else to do?
In the city–
Around the city,
Within and without
The city of despair.
By Tina Manley
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These type of encounters happen all the time by well-meaning Christian folks who travel on
church-sponsored work and mission trips. These “freebies” that are given out set up some
unequal dynamics among people. One person is clearly the giver of gifts, and one is the
receiver. Dependencey on outsiders can develop and in a sense, begging is encouraged.
Could our gift cause a problem?
It is also important that we are not giving a gift that can cause a problem (that we might not even
think of) such as a gift that requires the on-going maintenance of batteries that they have no way
of replacing on their own.
Do they need what we are giving?
Are we showering them with candy, etc. –the same as the last three groups of well-meaning
visitors did – and now there is such an abundance of these things on the shelves that it will
literally go to waste?
Are we creating inequality?
Many of the child sponsors are vigilant in sending gifts, but many are not. To have certain
children constantly showered with gifts and others rarely receive anything special that is “just for
them” may cause jealousy, destruction, and stealing among the children.
“CASH” gifts given directly to the children are strongly discouraged. Please send all
monetary gifts through the sponsorship program or give it to the on-site liaison person who can
purchase a gift on your behalf and tell the child who sent the gift.
Are we making promises that we can’t keep? Please do not promise to “send” gifts. It is
often difficult to ship gifts from the U.S. due to import taxes, etc and make sure that it arrives at
its intended destination. It is cruel to make a promise to those who are waiting for a gift that
may never arrive.
We are not saying it is never appropriate to give small gifts, but it is advisable to have all gifts
approved by the local director and/or the coordinators of the project. Gifts will be distributed
only in accordance with his/her discretion, whether it is a material or monetary gift.
The children love to give gifts, too. – Many times it is a page from a coloring book or a block
of wood with a nail hammered into it. Many times, they want to give you a prized possession.
They want you to have it or they wouldn’t give it to you. Graciously accept and acknowledge
every gift.
Your understanding and cooperation for gift-giving and receiving is greatly appreciated.
POTENTIAL TOUR DESTINATIONS
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Guamalito Market – is a typical Artisan’s & crafter’s market located in San
Pedro Sula. It is a must-see for everyone and a great place to find souvenirs
at low prices.
Turi Plaza and the Mahogany Factory --is located in El Progresso ,
approximately one hour north of San Pedro Sula on the road to Tela. It is
here that you can watch the crafters carve mahogany into beautiful pieces and
also have the opportunity to purchase some of their work.
La Naturaleza Tourism Center - a new tourist facility built by Chet
Thomas that includes an American-style restaurant, theater, and museum
located about half way between San Pedro Sula and Tegucilgalpa on CA5
Nearby you can see Lake Yojoa and beautiful water falls. Lots of natural
beauty! Approximately 200 miles round trip)
El Cajon Dam -- and a ride on the ferry built by previous work groups to
Honduras.
Omoa Fortress and Beach – Approximately 50 miles northwest from San
Pedro Sula is an old Spanish Fort next to the Caribbean Sea. Tela beaches &
botanical gardens This is about 80 miles northeast of San Pedro Sula. Here
you can swim in the Caribbean Sea and walk the beach, & eat at a local
restaurant. There is also a beautiful botanical garden near Tela to visit if time
permits.
A local banana plantation – See how bananas are planted, harvested, and
shipped.
Ten ways to ruin short term mission trips
Believe it or not, it's possible to have a bad short-term missions experience.
Most times, this is not the fault of the situation or organization. The root cause
22
is most often the short-termer's own attitudes and expectations. To help you
maximize your short-term experience, here's a checklist of what not to do.
1.
Keep narrowly focused on spiritual activities. You want to win people to
Christ. So, focus on your loftiest expectations. Avoid menial work like painting,
cleaning the yard, loading trucks, or working on buildings. Such things will
only distract you from your primary task.
2. To tighten up your schedule, eliminate personal prayer and Bible study.
You will be so rushed that you won't have time. Besides, can't you get all the
spiritual food you need from group devotions and from church services?
3. Stay organized. Set detailed goals before you go. Establish schedules and
refuse to deviate from them. Do not accept delays, last-minute changes, and
impromptu visits and invitations. Those things will just keep you from getting
things done for God.
4. Help the coordinators by pointing out their mistakes. Bring them up to
date on what you've heard are the latest missions trends. Some coordinators
are stubborn. So, you may need to enlist some support among the group for
your views about how things should be run.
5. Get involved romantically with someone. Being away from family and
friends makes this the perfect time to get involved romantically. While it may
distract you slightly from the work, you will be able to expose national
Christians to America's progressive dating customs.
6. Don't embarrass yourself by trying to pick up the local language. People
are always saying that English is spoken all over the world. So, insist that
those people use it with you, beside the kids don’t enjoy hearing you learn
their language.
7. Immediately begin pointing out your team members' faults. Time is short.
It will be difficult for people to make the needed changes if you don't help
them from the start. Focus your helpful criticisms on team leaders.
8. Make hygiene a top priority and don't eat any of the local food. To be
sure, you may miss some friendly opportunities with "the natives," but you'll
avoid all those awful germs!
9. Keep your distance from team members who couldn't raise their full
support. They may try to mooch off you. Don't give in. Sweating over
finances will help them build their faith.
10. When you return home, scold your home church and friends for their
lack of commitment, for their weak prayers, and for their inadequate
giving to missions. This may be one of the few times you will have their
deferential respect. Make the most of it.
adapted from Commissioned, January/February/March 1995
HOGAR DE NIÑOS EMANUEL
Colonia Bográn, Carretera Pt. Cortés
Apartado Postal 716
23
San Pedro Sula, Honduras, C.A.
Telfax: 011 (504) 551-2617
Executive Director:
*Vivian Chahin, San Pedro Sula
Home - 011 (504) 552-4844
Work (504) 991-7040
Email: jchahin@sigmanet.hn
Board of Directors:
*Chet Thomas, Tegucigalpa
011 (504) 232-8287 or (504) 7790915
011 (504) 990 6016- cell
Email: chet@paghonduras.org
BVS Volunteer
(on site 8-2006 to 8-2008)
*Leah Yingling –San Pedro Sula
IMP SAP 725
P.O. Box 02-5229
Miami, FL 33102-
Email: ojalaqueso@yahoo.com
Cell: 011-504-877-5188
El Hogar’s office:
*Karla
*Nancy 887-4697-cell
Other English speaking friends
in HN.
*Aminta Navarrete, San Pedro Sula
Home- 011 (504) 551-4811
Cell
992-9760
Work: 011-504-558-1077 or 1078
Email: anavarrete@bacbank.com
*MaryAnn Kafati – San Pedro Sula
Home - 011 (504) 557-2232
Work
(504) 552-2228
Cell
991-7187
Email: ruthpazfound@globalnet.hn
*Bill and Rona Hemminger
Home – (814) 629-9868 in PA
Home – (540) 941-3423 in VA
Cell: (724) 244-5040
Email: hemminger@verizon.net
When dialing TO Honduras 011 is the code to dial before the area code
to get an international phone line
When dialing TO the United States 001 is the code to dial before the
area code toget an international phone line
*Speaks English
SPANISH WORDS AND PHRASES
ENGLISH
24
SPANISH
The Home of the Children of God
God is with Us.
Spanish
Good day
Good afternoon
Good evening
Hello
Goodbye
Please
Thank you
Your welcome
Welcome
Excuse me
I’m sorry
How are you?
Good, and you?
Yes
No
Bathroom
Ladies room
Mens room
Key
A little
A lot
Small children
Boys / children
Girls
Man
Woman (unmarried)
Woman (married)
Teacher
God
My name is ________
What is your name?
How old are you?
Where is the bathroom?
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
January
February
El Hogar de Niños Emanuel
Dios con Nosotros
Español
Buenos días
Buenos tardes
Buenos noches
Hola
Adiós
por favor
gracias
de nada
Bienvenidos
perdón
Lo sienta
Cómo estás?
Bien, et tu?
Sí
No
baño
damas
hombres
llave
un poquito
mucho
muchachos
niños
niñas
Señor
Señorita
Señora
maestro
Dios
Mi nombre es _______
Qué es tu nombre?
Cuántos años tiene?
Dónde ésta el baño?
Days of the week
domingo
lunes
martes
miércoles
jueves
viernes
sábado
Months of the year
enero
febrero
25
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Counting:
One
Two
Three
Four
Five
Six
Seven
Eight
Nine
Ten
Twenty
Fifty
One hundred
marzo
abril
mayo
junio
julio
agosto
septiembre
octubre
noviembre
Diciembre
Yesterday
Today
Tomorrow
How much?
How many?
When?
Money
Honduran money
I don’t understand.
ayer
hoy
manaña
($)Cuantos?
Cuantos?
Cuando?
dinero
limpira
No entiendo
Do you understand me?
Entiendes?
Behave!
Stop!
Slow
Fast
Go
Come
Help me!
Restaurant
Bill/check
Chicken
26
uno
dos
tres
cuatro
cinco
seis
siete
ocho
nueve
Diez
veinte
cincuenta
cien
Compórtese!
Parada!
Alto
despacio
rápidamente/rapido
Vaya!
Venga!
Ayúdeme!
restaurante
cuenta
Mealtime
pollo
South Carolina
/Partnership with
Honduras
Beef
Rice
French fries
Hamburger
Cheeseburger
Bacon
Ham
Iced tea
Coca-Cola
Diet Coke
Milk
Water
Spoon
Fork
Knife
Napkins
Colors
carne de vaca (res)
arroz
papas fritas
hamburguesa
Hamburguesa con queso
Tocina
Red
Blue
Green
Purple
Brown
Black
Orange
Yellow
Pink
rojo
azul
verde
morado
marron
negro
anaranjado
amarillo
rosado
Te frio
Coco
Coco-lite
leche
Agua
cuchara
tenedor
Cuchillo
servilletas
27